WASHINGTON - The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) announced that it has joined the U.S. Department of Labor and other construction industry organizations to introduce "Skills to Build America's Future," an initiative designed to attract young people to careers in the skilled trades.

Led by the Department of Labor, the initiative links NAHB, the Construction Industry Roundtable, and the National Heavy and Highway Alliance, a partnership of seven major construction craft unions. According to the organizations, this program is designed to:

  • Build national awareness of the importance of skilled trades workers to our economy and nation.

  • Inform people about the training, education, and apprenticeship opportunities available to those who want to join the skilled trades workforce.

  • Send the message that careers in the skilled trades are plentiful, lucrative, and fulfilling.

  • Invite young people and those who are transitioning to new careers to pursue careers in the trades.

    Through "Skills to Build America's Future," the partner organizations will reach out to state and local governments, educators and counselors, trade schools, and apprenticeship programs to encourage more young people and their parents to consider careers in the skilled trades.

    Publication date: 04/19/2004