Skilled Labor Fund Receives Grant to Educate 1,400 New Skilled Laborers

The National Housing Endowment's Skilled Labor Fund received a new grant from The Home Depot Foundation and the National Association of Home Builders that will enable the Skilled Labor Fund and the Home Builders Institute to help ensure the next generation of skilled workers in the building and construction trades have access to the important job training they need through the "Schools to Skills" training program.

"Current projections indicate that by 2030 we will lose 41 percent of the skilled laborers we need to continue the work that is so mission-critical to the success of NAHB, NKBA, and NARI members. If we're going to make a difference and reverse this trend, it'll take a united industry all coming together to solve this problem, and ensure the next generation of skilled workers is on its way -- ready and able to do the important jobs that keep our world moving forward. Donations like this one from The Home Depot Foundation and National Association of Home Builders are key to ensuring this happens, and we couldn't be more grateful," says Ed Brady, CEO of the Home Builders Institute.

"While we know the skilled labor gap continues to grow and affect the residential construction industry, nationwide, we're encouraged by these new efforts from The Skilled Labor Fund," says Heather Prill, senior manager of strategic partnerships at The Home Depot Foundation. "The Foundation has been working very closely with Home Builders Institute over the last few years to train skilled tradespeople and we look forward to working with The Skilled Labor Fund to bring new opportunities to the future of the construction industry."

The "Schools to Skills" program will provide training to 1,400 students across nine states. These grants provide classrooms, tools and equipment, as well as OSHA 10 certifications, and onsite job training for 16- to 18-year-olds currently enrolled in high school. 

"We need more skilled trades workers to help meet the ever-increasing demand for safe, affordable housing," says Chuck Fowke, chairman of the National Association of Home Builders. "This grant from the Home Depot Foundation and 'Schools to Skills' will help bridge the gap for many young people who see skilled trades training for what it is: A gateway to a successful career free from the burden of student loan debt. With these new skilled trades workers, we will be able to help more American families find a desirable home that meets their needs."