Gen Z is increasingly interested in skilled trades careers, but attracting and retaining this generation will require new approaches to training, mentorship and workplace culture.
Industry leaders say Gen Z sees something previous generations may have overlooked: the trades offer purpose, opportunity and a chance to make a tangible impact every day.
In a hyper-competitive market, talent poaching happens instantly. Salary matches provide short-term retention, but fail to build long-term loyalty. The true competitive advantage comes from the daily workplace experience.
The 2026 National Plumbing Competition drew 48 of the country’s top plumbing students currently enrolled in high school, vocational, technical and post-secondary schools.
As states seek solutions to skilled labor shortages, Louisiana's HB953 highlights the challenge of expanding workforce access while maintaining competency and safety standards.
The legislation transfers oversight from the State Plumbing Board of Louisiana and lowers training requirements, prompting debate over the future of plumbing licensure and apprenticeship.
Working alongside the PHCC Educational Foundation, CDA representatives provided materials, technical expertise, judging support, and volunteer leadership for the competition.
The longstanding partnership with PHCC Educational Foundation helps provide materials, expertise, and mentorship to aspiring plumbers from across the country.
Participants received training that included OSHA-10, First Aid/CPR, Fall Protection Awareness certification, apprenticeship readiness preparation, job readiness workshops, MC3 curriculum instruction, and exposure to multiple union career pathways through site visits and hands-on industry engagement.
Meta is launching America’s Workforce Academy (AWA): a nationwide fast-track to a long-term career in a skilled trade, powered by an initial $115 million first year investment.
Paige Burns discusses Trane's ongoing support of the ServiceTitan National HVAC Championship and its role in promoting technical excellence and workforce development.
The book is sponsored through Bradford White’s Industry Forward program, which highlights the value and opportunities that come with a career in the trades.