Home Depot Unveils Program to Introduce Wyoming Students to Skilled Trades
Home Depot is launching a new program called Path to Pro Skills Explorers in Wyoming, which aims to introduce middle- and high-school students to skilled trades such as woodworking, plumbing, electrical work, and construction safety.
The program is part of the company's effort to address the shortage of skilled tradespeople in the state. According to the Wyoming Department of Workforce Services, there will be an estimated 1,897 openings for jobs requiring apprenticeships between 2025 and 2027, including 721 electricians, 595 carpenters, and 297 plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters.
The program is free and includes hands-on lessons, videos, and project-based activities that can be used in classrooms, after-school programs, or at home. Home Depot's goal is to introduce 15 million students to skilled trades by 2032.
Erin Izen, executive director of The Home Depot Foundation, said the timing of the program is intentional, as career conversations are starting earlier for children now. She emphasized that the company wants to give kids a project at age 11 and let them discover their interest in skilled trades.