Building the Future: Why Workforce Development Programs are Key to Growing Skilled Trades Careers

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Aug 11
4 min read

Ray Terry discusses workforce development programs with Mary Ann Konopnicki of Precision Plumbing at a recent internship competition hosted by Starr Electric. — **Ray Terry discusses workforce development programs with** **Mary Ann Konopnicki of Precision Plumbing at** **a recent internship competition hosted by Starr Electric.**

By Sam Ettaro for Put Tools in Schools

Charlotte, NC — As the skilled trades continue to face a critical shortage of trained professionals across the country, businesses and communities must rethink how they attract and train the next generation of workers. With booming industries like construction and manufacturing, the demand for skilled tradespeople—from electricians and plumbers to carpenters, HVAC technicians, and beyond—is higher than ever. Yet the challenge remains: how do we bridge the gap between young people interested in these careers and companies willing to train and hire them?

Mary Ann Konopnicki, Talent Acquisition Specialist at Precision Plumbing and a former educator, knows this challenge firsthand. She has spent the last two years spearheading workforce development initiatives aimed at connecting youth—especially those who may not be on a traditional college track—with real career opportunities in the trades.

“There’s a lot of interest in young people moving into the trades right now. But there’s not enough industry out there that’s willing to train brand new talent or bring in someone with no experience,” Konopnicki explains.

The Workforce Development Gap

Konopnicki's experience working in schools and at career days across the region reveals a clear pattern: many young people want to learn and grow in trade careers, but companies often lack the infrastructure to onboard and train beginners.

“If companies don’t have dedicated workforce development personnel or directors, things fall through the cracks. Initiatives don’t get pushed through unless there’s a higher-level person committed to making it happen,” Konopnicki says.

This issue isn’t unique to one trade or one city. Across the U.S., the skilled trades face an aging workforce—many seasoned workers are retiring, and not enough new apprentices are filling their shoes.

Why Workforce Development Departments Matter

Companies like Precision Plumbing and Starr Electric have stepped up by creating workforce development roles dedicated to recruitment, training, and outreach. This not only ensures a steady pipeline of talent but also helps create partnerships with local schools and career technical education (CTE) programs.

“We have to get industry reps like Keith Olson, who’s a passionate carpentry instructor, connected with schools. It’s those partnerships that make all the difference,” Konopnicki emphasizes.

Investing in workforce development departments can be transformative. Businesses that take this lead not only secure their own future labor force but also help uplift communities by offering viable, well-paying career paths outside of the traditional college route.

Changing Perceptions and Providing Real Options

Many high school students still default to a college-bound mindset, often influenced by parents and societal expectations. Yet, the cost and uncertainty of college can lead to debt and jobs unrelated to their degrees.

“The college track is not the only option,” Konopnicki reminds students. “With skilled trades, you gain a lifelong, marketable skill without the heavy financial burden, and you can start working—and earning—much sooner.”

The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects over 7 million job openings in skilled trades by 2031, many due to retirements and growth.
The median annual wage for many trade careers (electricians, plumbers, HVAC technicians) often exceeds $50,000, with strong potential for advancement and entrepreneurship.
Apprenticeship programs combine paid on-the-job training with classroom instruction, allowing individuals to earn while they learn.

How Communities and Businesses Can Help

Develop workforce development roles: Hire dedicated personnel to manage recruitment, training, and outreach.
Partner with local schools and CTE programs: Collaborate with educators to create awareness and pathways for students.
Host career days and apprenticeships: Give students hands-on exposure to trades.
Promote trades as viable and rewarding careers: Combat outdated stereotypes by highlighting success stories and economic benefits.

Resources for Getting Started

Apprenticeship.gov — Find registered apprenticeship programs and resources nationwide.
National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) — Industry-recognized training and certification.
SkillsUSA — A national nonprofit supporting career and technical education.
American Welding Society Career Center — For careers in welding and fabrication trades.
Local Workforce Development Boards — Often provide grants, training, and employer support regionally.

The Bottom Line

As Mary Ann Konopnicki passionately points out, the future of the skilled trades depends on industry stepping up to fill the workforce development void.

“If the industry doesn’t start soon, they’re going to be left without people—and at a really tough situation.”

Companies that lead the way in training and recruiting will not only survive but thrive—and in the process, they’ll open doors for countless young people to build meaningful, well-paying careers that fuel our communities.

If you represent a business interested in creating or expanding a workforce development program, consider this your call to action. The skilled trades need you—and so do the future workers ready to build tomorrow.