Home Depot's Path to Pro Initiative Seeks to Fill Skilled Trades Gap

The Home Depot and The Home Depot Foundation have launched an initiative to provide 15 million introductions to skilled construction trades by 2032. This effort includes a free, hands-on educational experience called Path to Pro Skills Explorers curriculum, designed for middle and high school students (ages 11-17) to introduce them to high-demand careers in the trades.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 4.1 million construction skilled trades jobs will open over the next decade, but only 6% of young people are interested in entering these fields, according to a study by the National Association of Home Builders. The Skills Explorers curriculum was developed in partnership with Scouting America and piloted with Boys & Girls Clubs of America.

The program aims to equip teachers, parents, and community mentors with turn-key modules to teach foundational skills in areas such as woodworking, plumbing, electrical, and painting. Students can gain exposure to career pathways while building confidence through hands-on projects.