Future in Focus is a fundraising reception hosted by Explore The Trades, bringing together industry leaders, educators, and advocates committed to strengthening the pipeline of skilled trades professionals.
With a nostalgic nod to the past, the event will showcase the evolution of the trades—inviting guests to reflect on where the industry began while bringing its future clearly into view.
Skilled trades careers are essential to our economy, yet a widening workforce gap threatens future growth. As experienced professionals retire, the demand for trained, motivated talent continues to rise.
Explore The Trades is dedicated to:
- Raising awareness of high-demand, rewarding careers in the plumbing, HVAC, and electrical trades
- Supporting students, parents, and educators with classroom resources and an education-to-industry equipment grant program
- Serving as a partner to industry leaders with an ever-growing library of contractor-specific tools
Explore The Trades has reached over 1.2 million students in over 3,200 school districts throughout the United States. Your partnership helps inspire the next generation and sustain these critical industries.
Future in Focus blends storytelling, connection, and excitement through:
- Retro ViewFinder experiences highlighting the evolution of the trades
- Engaging program & mission moment
- Meaningful networking with special guests from across the industry
- A featured Rubber Duck Race finale—a high-energy, memorable close to the evening
The Event Experience
Date: Thursday, September 17, 2026
Time: 4:00 – 6:00 P.M. CST
Location: Riverbend Pavilion | JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa | 23808 Resort Parkway, San Antonio, TX 78261
Registration Fee
$150 per person (includes $80 donation to Explore The Trades)
Each registration includes one duck for our featured Rubber Duck Race finale!
Sponsorship Opportunities
Presenting Sponsor — $30,000 (one available)
- Exclusive event naming rights (“Future in Focus presented by…”)
- Welcome remarks during the program
- VIP table at the event
- Activation table at reception
- Exclusive recognition featured across all event materials, signage, and guest-facing experiences
Supporting Sponsorship Opportunities
The following opportunities offer meaningful brand visibility and engagement throughout the event experience, connecting your company directly with industry leaders and supporters.
Reception Sponsor — $15,000 (one available)
- Naming integration at event (“Reception hosted by…”)
- Branding at bar and food stations
- Premium visibility during networking reception
- Optional branded networking space during reception
Experience Sponsor — $6,000 (one available)
- Venue and audio-visual sponsorship powering the event
- Brand recognition on venue entry signage
Program Sponsor — $5,000 (one available)
- Branding tied to the event program and ViewFinder experience
- “See the future of the trades” thematic integration
- Company logo featured in ViewFinder photo reel
Duck Race Sponsor — $5,000 (one available)
- Exclusive sponsor of the event finale
- Opportunity to kick off the race and present the winner
- Sponsor the race award of $500
- Logo featured on rubber ducks
Thank you for your interest in this event! For any questions related to event attendance or sponsorship, please contact Kate Cinnamo, Executive Director of Explore The Trades, at katec@explorethetrades.org.