Ferguson Expands Skilled Trades Workforce Efforts With Goal to Connect 50,000 Young People by 2030

NEWPORT NEWS, VA — Ferguson is expanding its long-term investment in skilled trades education and workforce development, working toward a goal of connecting 50,000 young people to careers in the trades by 2030.

The initiative reflects growing demand for skilled professionals across plumbing, HVAC, lighting, water systems and other critical infrastructure sectors. As aging housing stock, water infrastructure upgrades and new construction projects continue to increase nationwide, the need for trained tradespeople remains a major industry priority.

Aging Infrastructure and Workforce Demand Continue to Drive Industry Needs

The average home in the United States is now more than 40 years old, creating ongoing demand for repair, replacement and modernization work. At the same time, the country continues to face a significant housing shortage while billions of dollars are being invested into water and infrastructure improvements.

Meeting those demands depends heavily on the availability of skilled labor.

Industry partners report continued workforce shortages, with more than 80% of contractors actively seeking qualified workers for housing and infrastructure projects. This demand creates meaningful career opportunities for students and young professionals entering the trades.

Ferguson points to the growing value of hands-on careers as automation and artificial intelligence continue reshaping portions of the workforce. Skilled trades careers continue to offer long-term stability, technical problem-solving opportunities and direct involvement in building and maintaining essential systems communities rely on every day.

Skilled Trades Programs Focus on Early Exposure and Hands-On Learning

Ferguson supports workforce development through a combination of education initiatives, nonprofit partnerships and community-based experiences designed to introduce students to career opportunities in the trades.

“A strong workforce starts with providing real opportunities, support and clear industry entry points,” said Melissa Hazelwood, Director of Social Impact at Ferguson.

One of the company’s flagship initiatives is the Explore The Trades Skills Lab, Built by Ferguson program, which provides schools with industry-grade tools and equipment to support hands-on technical education. The program is designed to help students gain practical exposure to plumbing, HVAC and related trades while learning about long-term career pathways.

Ferguson also partners with organizations including ACE Mentor Program of America, Trades for Tomorrow, Tools & Tiaras and the mikeroweWORKS Foundation.

Community Partnerships Create Career Exploration Opportunities

In addition to funding and equipment support, Ferguson’s workforce development efforts include mentorship opportunities, job shadowing programs, field trips and branch-led educational experiences designed to connect students directly with the industry.

The company says these initiatives are intended to help students better understand how skilled trades careers support residential construction, infrastructure development and everyday building operations.

Recent programs have included middle school career exploration activities, experiences focused on introducing more young women to technical careers and facility tours that demonstrate how distribution and logistics support construction operations behind the scenes.

Long-Term Workforce Investment Supports Industry Growth

Ferguson says its workforce development strategy is designed to create long-term benefits for both the industry and local communities by helping students discover career opportunities and supporting the next generation of skilled professionals.

The company views continued investment in education, mentorship and hands-on training as essential to building a stronger workforce capable of supporting future housing, infrastructure and building system needs nationwide.

To learn more visit explorethetrades.org.