10 More Schools Jumpstart Student Skills Labs with Grant Funding

Building on tradition, Explore The Trades and Ferguson celebrated National Skilled Trades Day on May 7, 2025, by announcing grants to support the expansion of technical training and educational resources for the future generation of trades professionals.

Ten middle and high schools located across the U.S. – from New Jersey to Colorado – are recipients of ‘Explore The Trades Skills Lab, Built by Ferguson’ grants that will bring hands-on learning resources to students with a curiosity for trades careers. “Strong partnerships between industry and education are essential to the growth of the plumbing, HVAC, and electrical trades,” said Kate Cinnamo, Executive Director of Explore The Trades in a press release. “We’re excited to see the ‘Explore The Trades Skills Lab, Built by Ferguson’ program continue to expand—now reaching a new milestone with the selection of its first-ever electrical lab.”

All grants are funded by Ferguson, a leading value-added distributor in residential and commercial construction, which also generously provides schools with skills lab equipment and support.

“We’re seeing a pivotal moment for the skilled trades. More young people — especially Gen Z — are recognizing the advantages of a career in trades, from economic stability to long-term growth,” explained Melissa Hazelwood, Director of Social Impact at Ferugson. “With this momentum building and an urgent need to address the industry’s labor shortage, the time is now to invest in the next generation.”

Read the latest news article highlighting this exciting announcement here!