January 2025
Celebrating 2024 and Success in the Skilled Trades
Explore The Trades is proud to share the incredible impact we’ve had in 2024.
From launching the fourth year of the “Explore The Trades Skills Lab, Built by Ferguson” program, to increasing our reach and impact in school districts across the country – our work continues to grow and expand.
Your commitment makes this important work possible. Explore The Trades looks forward to all we can accomplish together to help create the next generation of skilled tradespeople.
Learn more at the link below.
Photo credit to Bemidji High School, a 2023-2024 Skills Lab recipient.
Applications Open for Skills Lab Equipment Grants
Applications are open for the “Explore The Trades Skills Lab, Built by Ferguson” program!
New this year, we’re pleased to announce equipment grant support for electrical programs.
This is your chance to bring plumbing, HVAC, or electrical tools to your classroom and give students the hands-on experience they need to succeed.
To learn more about the program and to submit your school’s application, please visit the link below.
Explore The Trades Fishing Fundraiser
Join Explore The Trades for a fishing fundraiser in Buras, LA, from April 15–18, 2025!
Explore The Trades is pleased to share this event and we appreciate the support of the organization’s mission – to bridge the technical talent gap to the service trades of plumbing, heating, cooling, and electrical.
Learn more about the event and register with the link below.
Resources to Inspire the Next Generation of Trades Professionals!
Explore The Trades is excited to announce two new additions to our skilled trades poster collection.
- Spanish-translated posters
- Poster series for kids (ages five-11)
Both sets of resources ensure students have the information they need to explore career opportunities in the skilled trades
Download print-ready versions using the button below.
Explore The Trades Celebrates SandCastle Grant Award
Explore The Trades celebrates a $10,000 grant award from the SandCastle Foundation.
SandCastle Foundation is a private foundation in Minnesota dedicated to serving children and their families, education, and the environment.
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.