07/22/2026
Did You Know?
America isn't running out of jobs.
It's running out of skilled tradespeople.
To help address the growing workforce shortage, the Department of Defense recently announced BuildFreedom.US, a $10 million partnership with Mike Rowe's mikeroweWORKS Foundation to encourage more Americans to pursue careers in the skilled trades that support our nation's defense industrial base.
Why this matters:
For every 5 skilled tradespeople who retire, only 2 enter the workforce to replace them.
That gap affects far more than construction; it impacts manufacturers, defense contractors, infrastructure projects, and service businesses across the country.
Trades experiencing major shortages include:
π§ Welders
β‘ Electricians
βοΈ HVAC Technicians
π° Plumbers
βοΈ Machinists
π Diesel Mechanics
ποΈ Pipefitters
π’ Shipbuilders
π οΈ Industrial Maintenance Technicians
π Nondestructive Testing (NDT) Technicians
Why should service companies care?
Whether you're in HVAC, plumbing, electrical, roofing, refrigeration, or another skilled trade, this workforce shortage creates both challenges and opportunities.
Challenges:
β’ Hiring becomes more competitive.
β’ Labor costs continue to rise.
β’ Experienced workers become harder to replace.
β’ Retirement waves increase the skills gap.
Opportunities:
β’ Demand for skilled contractors continues to grow.
β’ Companies investing in training and retention gain a competitive advantage.
β’ Businesses that improve efficiency through better systems, technology, and outsourcing can scale despite workforce shortages.
π‘ The Bottom Line
America's skilled trades don't just build our homes; they build our economy, maintain our infrastructure, and support our national security.
As workforce shortages continue, the companies that invest in their people, streamline their operations, and prepare for the future will be the ones best positioned to grow.
What trade do you think deserves more recognition?