Young People Explore Hands-On Skilled Trades with Free Online Curriculum
The skilled trades are often overlooked as career options for young people, but they offer competitive salaries and job security. To encourage kids to explore these fields, adults can start conversations early and provide hands-on learning experiences.
The Home Depot's Path to Pro Skills Explorers program is a free resource that introduces students to skilled trades like plumbing, construction, and electrical work. The program includes online resources and hands-on activities that allow youth to explore viable career paths.
Michael Rowe, executive vice president of Pro for The Home Depot, said 'For years, we've helped separating military, career changers and others build pathways to the trades.' He added 'We know that closing the skilled labor gap starts much earlier. We need more young people to see what's possible and understand the lucrative opportunities these careers provide.'
Skilled trades not only require technical skills but also soft skills like communication, patience, critical thinking, time management, attention to detail and more. Parents, educators, and mentors can encourage young people to broaden their horizons by recognizing the skills they're already building.