Home Depot Aims to Fill Skilled Trades Gap with New Youth Program

More than 300,000 skilled trades jobs sit empty across the country, as only two qualified workers enter the field for every five who retire. A new program from The Home Depot aims to close this 'skilled trades gap' by introducing students to in-demand careers like carpentry and plumbing.

The Skills Explorers program is a hands-on, no-cost initiative developed in partnership with Scouting America. It's designed for students aged 11-17, when most are forming their career interests and perceptions.

According to The Home Depot, the skilled trades gap is significant due to misconceptions and a lack of awareness about the industry. Only 6 percent of young adults are interested in pursuing a career in the trades.

The Skills Explorers program is part of The Home Depot's commitment to introduce 15 million people to the skilled trades by 2032. As part of this effort, the company is growing its partnerships with organizations like Scouting America and Boys & Girls Clubs of America.