The Home Depot Aims to Introduce 15 Million Young People to Skilled Trades Careers by 2032

The Home Depot and its foundation have set a goal to introduce 15 million young people to skilled trades careers by 2032. This effort aims to address the shortage of skilled labor in the construction industry, where over 4.1 million jobs are expected to open in the next decade but only 6% of young people currently express interest.

The Home Depot has launched a new program called Path to Pro Skills Explorers, which is a free learning curriculum that combines interactive online modules with hands-on activities and projects to introduce students ages 11-17 to high-demand construction careers.

Developed in partnership with Scouting America and piloted with Boys & Girls Clubs of America, the program provides turn-key resources that introduce youth to foundational trades skills such as woodworking, plumbing, electrical work, and construction safety through engaging, hands-on learning experiences.