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September 01.2025
2 Minutes Read

Home Depot Launches $10 Million Program to Inspire Youth in Skilled Trades

Home Depot skilled trades program: Instructor guiding children in woodworking project.

Empowering the Next Generation: Home Depot’s Skilled Trades Program

In an inspiring move to combat the growing labor shortage in the skilled trades, the Home Depot Foundation has unveiled a transformative pilot program aimed at educating and engaging young people in Atlanta. The initiative, supported by a $10 million investment, partners with the Boys & Girls Clubs of America to create hands-on opportunities for middle and high school students.

Hands-On Learning: Building Skills and Confidence

This inaugural event, held at the Warren Boys & Girls Club, saw enthusiastic participation from students who rolled up their sleeves to construct picnic tables, benches, and Adirondack chairs. Meanwhile, younger students enjoyed workshops building piggy banks—a creative way to spark interest in craftsmanship from an early age. Such activities not only develop practical skills but also foster a sense of community and accomplishment among the youth of Atlanta.

The Growing Need for Skilled Workers

As the construction industry faces a critical workforce shortage, the need for skilled tradespeople has never been more urgent. Current estimates reveal there are approximately 400,000 open positions for skilled plumbers, carpenters, electricians, and HVAC specialists across the United States. Looking ahead, this number could rise to a staggering 3.9 million over the next decade, highlighting the necessity of programs like this one that pave pathways to lucrative careers.

Changing Perceptions: The Truth About Skilled Trades

One of the program's primary goals is to shift the misconceptions surrounding skilled trades. “Less than 3% of young people and high schoolers consider a job in the skilled trades,” explained Erin Izen, executive director of the Home Depot Foundation. Izen emphasized the importance of educating youth about the various career paths that extend beyond traditional four-year college degrees. By showing them the potential for wealth-building careers in trades, the program aims to inspire a new generation of skilled workers.

Community Collaboration: A Collective Impact

As Marlon Montgomery, vice president of youth development for Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Atlanta, noted, this partnership is more than just training; it’s about exposing young people to career opportunities they might never have considered. “We ignite unlimited potential in kids and teens by providing these types of opportunities,” he stated. This collaborative effort not only enriches the lives of the participants but also enhances the community as a whole.

Join the Movement for Change

The Home Depot Foundation's pilot program represents a significant stride towards bridging the skilled labor gap while empowering local youth with the tools they need for successful careers. As this program expands its reach to over 1,000 youth in Atlanta, Houston, and Phoenix, it beckons other organizations and individuals to consider similar initiatives that can uplift and nurture our communities.

If you enjoyed this story, why not stay connected? Join Atlanta Local Unplugged on Facebook and YouTube for exclusive local information. @atlantalocalunplugged

If you enjoyed this story, why not stay connected? Join Atlanta Local Unplugged on Facebook and YouTube for exclusive local information. @atlantalocalunplugged

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