The Skilled Trades Advisory Council announced on Sept. 17 that it has officially earned 501(c)(3) nonprofit status, a significant milestone in its mission to combat the ongoing skilled labor crisis in the United States and Canada. Founded in August 2023, STAC brings together industry leaders who are leveraging their resources, expertise and networks to promote skilled trades as high-paying, honorable and essential career paths. These trades include electrical, plumbing, HVAC, janitorial, construction and other critical sectors in need of a rejuvenated workforce.

“As the demand for skilled trades continues to outpace supply, the work of STAC has never been more critical,” said Rob Almond, CEO of NEST and founding advisor of STAC. “Achieving nonprofit status empowers us to further our mission, create meaningful partnerships, and drive initiatives that will elevate these careers and ensure the future of our workforce.”

In its first year, STAC has made significant strides in elevating the conversation around skilled trades. The organization has successfully advocated for the importance of these careers and united industry leaders to drive change. Key achievements include collaborations with high-profile advocates like Mike Rowe, skilled trades programming with the Philadelphia Phillies and alliances with leading organizations, such as Explore the Trades, Women in HVACR, NAWIC Philadelphia Foundation, SPECS and CONNEX FM.

The urgency for skilled trades careers is underscored by a report from Associated Builders and Contractors, which indicates that the construction industry alone will need to hire an additional 500,000 workers in 2024 to meet labor demands.

Founding STAC advisors include:

• Almond
• Andrew Brown, founder and CEO of Toolfetch
• Kate Cinnamo, executive director of Explore the Trades
• Mary Gaffney, president of NAWIC Philadelphia Foundation and GEM Mechanical Services
• Sarah Hammond, owner and president of Atlas and treasurer of Women in HVACR
• Mónica Muñoz, senior director of capital programs at DaVita Kidney Care
• Julie Starzynski, design and development manager at BP
• Sara Angus, director of construction at Starbucks
• Kam Washington, owner of PMA Construction