Industry data shows that there are an estimated 311,000 open skilled labor jobs. Fields like carpentry, electrical, plumbing and others in residential construction feed the growing openings in the workforce.
To combat the growing skilled labor gap, The Home Depot Foundation has committed up to $500,000 to fund student training in home construction careers in high schools across the country. Additionally, the National Housing Endowment – the philanthropic arm of the National Association of Home Builders – pledged $200,000 in support of the effort.
“We fully understand the dire long-term outlook for the skilled labor shortage in the residential construction industry. At the same time, there are amazing opportunities for transformation in education that can help reduce the issue,” expressed Shannon Gerber, executive director of The Home Depot Foundation.
The combined commitment will allow for a hands-on curriculum in construction trade training for thousands of high school students nationwide, along with instructor training and materials. These programs will be available at no additional charge to students and their families. Students with receive a pre-apprenticeship certification upon completion.
“We’re excited to reintroduce our youth to these vital careers that literally helped to build our country, as well as be on the forefront of the positive changes to come,” says Shannon.
The Home Depot Foundation’s commitment is part of a $50 million partnership with the Home Builders Institute to train tradespeople over 10 years. To read more about The Home Depot Foundation, visit homedepot.com/foundation.
