The “Explore The Trades Skills Lab, Built by Ferguson” equipment grants were announced on May 1 in celebration of National Skilled Trades Day.

Twelve schools are the newest recipients of the Skills Lab equipment grants, which are projected to reach over 1,000 students this upcoming school year. This dynamic program has experienced rapid growth since it began in 2021 and has now delivered plumbing and HVAC equipment to 26 schools and over 2,000 students nationwide.

“The national conversation around the importance of the skilled trades and technical education has reached a fever pitch this year,” noted Kate Cinnamo, executive director of Explore The Trades. “Trade education programs in communities around the nation are bringing the next generation to these industries. Our partnership with Ferguson has given school districts the opportunity to build skilled trades labs that enable their students to thrive. It’s so encouraging to see students discover the trades, develop a passion for them and know that those skill sets will benefit them in careers after high school graduation.”

“We are proud to partner with Explore The Trades and thrilled to see our shared vision of building a sustainable skilled trades pipeline come to life,” commented Melissa Hazelwood, director of social impact at Ferguson. “With the recent surge of interest in trades careers and the substantial investments in our country’s infrastructure, the need for skilled tradespeople has never been more apparent. Through our concerted efforts, we are not just providing students with tools; we are laying the foundation for lifelong careers. Our partnership has already impacted thousands of students, and we are excited to continue this journey. We are committed to investing in the next generation.”

The 2024 recipients are:

• Appomattox County High School – HVAC (Virginia);
• Bemidji High School – HVAC (Minnesota);
• Callaway High School – HVAC (Georgia);
• Gateway Regional – HVAC (New Jersey);
• Ivy Academy – HVAC (Tennessee);
• Lebanon County Career and Technology Center – Plumbing (Pennsylvania);
• Mayfair Elementary and Middle School – Plumbing (Pennsylvania);
• Poplar Bluff Technical Career Center – HVAC (Missouri);
• Raymore-Peculiar Public School Foundation – HVAC (Missouri);
• Saginaw Career Complex – HVAC (Michigan);
• Thomas J. Corcoran High School – HVAC (New York); and
• Woodruff Career and Technical Center – HVAC (Illinois).

Founded in 2005, Explore The Trades is committed to bridging the technical talent gap to the service trades of plumbing, heating, cooling and electrical. The organization is focused on bringing the skilled trades conversation back into the classroom by providing classroom materials and on-demand resources for educators, parents and students.