Thank you to all the schools that applied for the “Explore The Trades Skills Lab, Built by Ferguson” equipment grants!
Please check our website on National Skilled Trades Day (May 6th) to see the list of this year’s recipients.
New Contractor Toolkit: Build Stronger Connections with Local Schools
The future of the plumbing, HVAC, and electrical trades depends on strong partnerships between contractors and local education programs.
Our contractor toolkit was created to help you take the lead. Inside, you’ll find practical strategies for connecting with schools, engaging Career & Technical Education (CTE) programs, and positioning your company as a trusted industry voice in your community.
Explore the full contractor toolkit and download your copy below.
Explore The Trades at Lennox LIVE
Explore The Trades was proud to attend Lennox LIVE in Anaheim, California, from March 31–April 2, 2026, alongside a nationwide network of Lennox dealers and industry partners.
The energy was inspiring, and it was clear that the dealers we connected with are deeply invested in their communities and the future of the skilled trades.
Throughout the event, our team had meaningful conversations about workforce development, career pathways, and early exposure to the trades.
We’re grateful for the chance to connect with so many community‑minded leaders and to continue building momentum together!
Donor Spotlight: Connor Williams, President of Ashton Mechanical Group
Connor Williams, President of Ashton Mechanical Group, leads one of Western Canada’s top home services companies with a deep respect for hands‑on work and the essential role tradespeople play in every community. His leadership is rooted in values of integrity, innovation, and opportunity—principles that guide Ashton’s ongoing commitment to training, professional development, and industry advancement.
Connor supports Explore The Trades because he believes early exposure to plumbing, heating, cooling, and electrical careers helps students gain confidence and discover meaningful paths they may never have considered. By championing awareness and education, he is helping shape the future of the skilled trades workforce.
Learn more about Connor’s story with the link below!
Celebrate National Apprenticeship Week with Explore The Trades!
National Apprenticeship Week, to be celebrated this year from April 26 – May 2, 2026, shines a spotlight on the value of registered apprenticeships in building a strong, highly skilled workforce.
As the country faces a growing technical talent gap in the plumbing, HVAC, and electrical trades, apprenticeship programs stand out as one of the most effective ways to prepare the next generation of professionals.
At Explore The Trades, we’re committed to helping individuals connect with rewarding career pathways in the skilled trades. Our apprenticeship map tool makes it easy to find opportunities across the U.S., with a simple state‑by‑state search to explore programs available in your area.
Find an apprenticeship near you using the link below!
Thank you to our 2026 Partners!
Campbell Family
Anthony Cooper
James Gerdsen
Donors of Explore The Trades support the next generation of tradespeople and the legacy of the plumbing, HVAC, and electrical trades.
To our supporters, we thank you.
To learn more about supporting Explore The Trades and its donors, click the link below.