Mike Rowe and DeWalt work to close the skilled trades gap

DeWalt has announced the recipients of its Grow the Trades grants, and the Mike Rowe Works Foundation is one among many.

“In the U.S., the construction industry alone faces a gap of 500,000 workers,” said Frank Mannarino, president, power tools group at DeWalt’s parent company Stanley Black & Decker.

This year, said the firm, 70 organizations will receive a combined $3.3 million to fund training in concrete, mechanical, finishing and pipe trades, among others.

Winners span 19 states, the District of Columbia, and Europe with funds supporting those seeking careers in the trades including transitioning military, women, and those in underserved communities.

Recipients, said the company, were selected via a competitive application process based on their trades-focused initiatives. A few of those are highlighted:

mikeroweWORKS Foundation
The mikeroweWORKS Foundation’s Work Ethic Scholarship program helps people train for skilled jobs that are in demand and begin viable careers in the trades.

This year, they are giving away another $1 million in scholarships for students in trade schools with funding from the Grow the Trades and other partners.

Helmets to Hardhats
Helmets to Hardhats (H2H) connects transitioning active-duty military service members, veterans, National Guard and reservists with skilled training and quality career opportunities in construction.

This grant will assist H2H to seamlessly connect 15,000 veteran career seekers to apprenticeship programs.

National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) High School Builder Program
The National Center for Construction Education and Research High School Builder program helps local schools work with students to gain credentialing, direct employment and training including safety and proper use of hand and power tools.

When 500 schools are funded, the High School Builder Program is set to add 10,000 students from across the country into the talent pipeline.

The Grow the Trades grant program, said DeWalt, is a $30 million commitment over five years to support organizations that are skilling, reskilling and upskilling tradespeople.

“Together, we are providing a pathway for tradespeople to build a long-term and fulfilling career in the trades,” said Mannarino.