The TOOLS Program launched in 2020 aiming to encourage local youth to pursue careers in the construction industry. Since then, it has reached hundreds of students, offering them invaluable hands-on experiences and creating pathways for them to launch successful careers in the trades.
The partnerships that TOOLS supports also help contractors hire, train, and retain skilled trades employees. Since 2020, TOOLS has connected contractors with students of all ages, building a presence in over 35 schools by partnering with more than 40 contractors and home builders.
Just two years after its creation, TOOLS received distinguished recognition for its success: CURT (Construction Users Round Table) honored the program with its Workforce Development Award, a testament to its profound and positive impact on the construction industry. The CURT award positioned TOOLS as one of the nation’s most exceptional models of a workforce development program.
In addition to outreach programs that expose students of all ages to hands-on learning about the trades, The TOOLS Program Foundation helps high school seniors build an actionable plan for success after graduation. TOOLS connects graduating seniors with top local contractors and awards scholarships to support students’ transition from high school to the start of their career or higher education, allowing them to graduate with financial support, a plan, and even a job offer. To date, TOOLS has awarded over $100,000 in scholarships to students pursuing a career in construction.
Read full testimonialThe TOOLS program is a great way for me to make connections with the HVAC Industry leaders.
Read full testimonialGetting to know the sponsoring companies and having students job shadow or go out on placement has been a smooth process.
Read full testimonialThe TOOLS program has expanded my networking capacity and made my program more valuable.
Read full testimonialThe TOOLS program is there to benefit the STUDENTS with cash scholarships, job shadowing experiences, work placement opportunities.
Read full testimonialTOOLS has quickly become our #1 way of finding new hires
Read full testimonialTOOLS has created connections to collaborate with schools we never thought of before.
Read full testimonialInteracting with the students and presenting at career fairs and events has been enjoyable. Job-shadows and direct placement has been a breeze.
Read full testimonialWe enjoy being involved. TOOLS is changing lives while helping to build our workforce.
