New Nationwide Curriculum Tackles Skilled Trades Gap

A free nationwide curriculum is being introduced to help address the skilled trades gap in the US. The program, called Skills Explorers, aims to raise awareness of skilled construction trade careers among students aged 11-17.

The program, developed in partnership with Scouting America, introduces students to skills such as carpentry, plumbing, and electrical fields through hands-on activities.

According to The Home Depot Foundation, more than 300,000 skilled trades jobs are currently open across the country, with only two qualified workers entering the field for every five who retire.

The Skills Explorers program is part of a larger commitment by The Home Depot and its foundation to introduce 15 million people to the skilled trades by 2032.

As part of this commitment, The Home Depot Foundation is growing its partnerships with organizations such as Scouting America and Boys & Girls Clubs of America to expose youth to skilled trades at a young age.