Bring Back the Trades Expands Research Initiative Examining Skilled Trades Workforce Gap
The research, initially launched in 2025 with founding support from F.W. Webb Company is expanding with additional industry sponsorship from Cintas Corporation.
Bring Back the Trades announced the expansion of its landmark industry research initiative. The research, initially launched in 2025 with founding support from F.W. Webb Company is expanding with additional industry sponsorship from Cintas Corporation
Initial research released by BBTT in February 2026 revealed stark projections for the industry: 25% of jobs across the original seven trades studied will be vacant by 2030. This workforce deficit is projected to trigger a $325 billion loss in U.S. GDP if left unaddressed. To provide a more comprehensive roadmap for industry and educational leaders, BBTT is currently analyzing an additional 14 trades, with the next wave of data expected to be released later this year.
“We are thrilled to have Cintas join F.W. Webb as a sponsor of this critical research initiative,” said Shana Brunye, chief operating officer and research director at Bring Back the Trades. “F.W. Webb’s early belief in this project allowed us to uncover the initial $325 billion gap, and adding Cintas gives us the momentum to dig even deeper. Together, we are uncovering the exact localized data needed to engage the next generation of tradespeople.”
Industry Leadership and Commitment to the Trades
Industry support for the research enables Bring Back the Trades to conduct deep-dive primary and secondary research, turning workforce demographics and education trends into actionable insights for educators, employers, and policymakers.
“At F.W. Webb, we understand the critical role the trades play in our communities and our economy,” said Sean Davis, a vice president at F.W. Webb. “We are proud to back this research, as we know how vital it is to get a clear picture of the workforce shortage. This data gives us the leverage to address the skills gap head-on and build a reliable talent pipeline.”
“Supporting the skilled trades is central to our mission at Cintas,” said Patrick Van Ermen, a manager at Cintas. “Every day, we work alongside the essential tradespeople who keep our infrastructure moving. Investing in this research allows us to better understand their challenges and actively support the recruitment and development of the next generation of skilled workers.”
Current Research Objectives:
- Track Key Metrics: Identify which trades are projected to have the most critical need of employees - in terms of both volume and severity - by state and region.
- Expand Trade Analysis: Finalize data collection on 14 additional trades to map a comprehensive national workforce outlook.
- Drive Strategic Advocacy: Turn data into actionable recommendations to help educators, employers, and policymakers guide students toward high-demand, rewarding trade careers.
Impact and Next Steps
The data from this ongoing study directly informs BBTT’s national initiatives, including its monthly tool grant programs, scholarships, and targeted workforce outreach.
“Our goal is to understand exactly which trades are most needed, and where,” added Brunye. “We are actively seeking one additional industry partner to join F.W. Webb and Cintas in this mission as we prepare to release our next round of findings later this year.”
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