Articles Tagged with ''skilled trades''

The annual competition highlights the industry's top technicians while inspiring future generations to pursue careers in HVAC. 

Among the primary topics discussed during congressional meetings was the need to strengthen workforce development initiatives and expand pathways into the skilled trades.

Explore The Trades (ETT) received a record number of applications for this year’s grants, which the organization said demonstrates an unprecedented interest in career and technical education among students, educators, and school communities across the country.

From heavy machinery to hands-on demonstrations, the community got a front-row-seat look at the careers that keep the world turning, a press release from Bring Back the Trade said.

The year-end is a time for reflection, and planning for 2026 is already starting. The Gallup Q12 engagement survey measures employees' connection to their workplace through 12 key statements. It highlights aspects such as expectations, tools, valued opinions, and growth opportunities, making it especially valuable in industries where retention depends on clarity, trust, and recognition beyond compensation. The Q12 helps quantify these drivers for better management, which is crucial at year-end.

As part of its ongoing investment in the future of the plumbing and HVAC industries, NIBCO has donated two hands-on boiler and water heater training boards to trade schools in Illinois and Indiana.

Ferguson hopes that these grants will encourage Gen-Z to work in the skilled trades. 

The BBTT Skills Expo presented by F.W. Webb is set to be a transformative experience for middle school and high school students, their parents, and adults interested in learning about the trades. The event is designed to engage, inspire, and inform, showcasing the exciting, technology-driven world of skilled trades through hands-on exhibits and interactive displays.

This initiative will focus on understanding key factors contributing to the skills gap, including workforce demographics, barriers to entry, and education and training opportunities.