The National Center for Construction Education and Research has been recognized as a DEWALT Grow the Trades Grant recipient for its efforts to provide career and technical education programs and industry-recognized credentials to students through the High School Builder Program.

With an estimated 500,000 open construction jobs, DEWALT’s Grow the Trades Grants aim to help close the skilled labor gap by supporting nonprofit organizations that are skilling, reskilling and upskilling tradespeople. Each year, the program awards funding and tool donations as part of a larger five-year, $30 million commitment to close the skilled trades gap.

NCCER was selected as one of 166 organizations that are providing greater accessibility and resources for trades training.

“We know that careers in construction can change lives,” said Boyd Worsham, NCCER president and CEO. “Not every school has the resources to start a career and technical education program. Through this contribution from DEWALT, and in partnership with other donors to the High School Builder Program, NCCER is helping remove the financial barrier to implementing craft training for high school students. Following this program, students will be able to continue their education and/or join the workforce and fully hone their skills in the construction industry.”

The High School Builder Program is removing barriers to create more career and technical education programs in schools. The programs will continue well beyond this initial funding investment and create an ongoing talent pipeline. This grant will have an exponential impact and be a sustainable solution as new students graduate each year and join the industry.

“DEWALT is immensely proud to support NCCER as they work to skill and reskill the tradespeople of tomorrow, moving us closer to our shared goal of closing the trade skills gap,” said Frank Mannarino, president and general manager of DEWALT. “Funding educational programs and nonprofits, like NCCER, connects more people to training, resources and opportunities that will lead to successful careers in the trades.”

To learn more about the DEWALT Grow the Trades Grant, recipients and updates for the upcoming application period, visit the DEWALT Grow the Trades website.