Ferguson is partnering with Heavy Metal Summer Experience (HMSE) to help introduce more young people to careers in the skilled trades, supporting workforce development through a $100,000 donation that will fund 62 hands-on summer camps across the United States and Canada.

The investment is designed to expose thousands of students to careers in plumbing, piping, construction and related mechanical trades while helping them build practical skills, connect with industry mentors and explore apprenticeship opportunities.

"We're certainly proud of our partnership with HMSE, along with others like the mikeroweWORKS Foundation, Explore the Trades and Tools & Tiaras, all contributing to our goal of connecting 50,000 youth to the skilled trades," said Melissa Hazelwood, Director of Social Impact for Ferguson. "By investing in programs that meet young people where they are, we're helping them get real exposure to careers in the skilled trades and see what's possible. Our focus is on building a strong, sustainable skilled trades pipeline so the next generation is ready to step in and keep our communities running."

Summer Camps Provide Real-World Jobsite Experience

HMSE serves students ages 15 to 20 through immersive summer programs that introduce participants to careers in sheet metal, piping, plumbing and electrical work.

Students receive up to 40 hours of project-based instruction at contractor facilities and training centers, where they complete hands-on projects under the guidance of experienced tradespeople. Activities include fabricating sheet metal toolboxes, assembling copper pipe lamps and wiring DIY air conditioning units.

The camps also connect students directly with pre-apprenticeship programs, registered apprenticeships and employer partners, creating pathways into long-term careers in the skilled trades.

"What started as a simple idea to open doors for young people has grown into something much bigger," said Hazelwood. "HMSE gives young people the opportunity to work with their hands, build their confidence and really see themselves in a career in the trades. It's about connecting them to real-world experiences, job sites and industry professionals. It really is an extraordinary experience."

Workforce Program Continues to Grow

Since launching in 2021 with 28 students, Heavy Metal Summer Experience has expanded rapidly. The organization expects to serve more than 1,000 students during the 2026 camp season.

"Ferguson's partnership helps HMSE give students something many have never had before: the chance to see the skilled trades up close, work with their hands and imagine a future in an industry ready to welcome them," Ellen Young, Executive Director for Heavy Metal Summer Experience said. "HMSE began by serving 28 students in 2021 and has grown to serve more than 1,000 students in 2026 alone, reflecting an industry-wide commitment, strengthened by philanthropic partners like Ferguson and by the response from students, parents, and trades professionals eager to mentor the next generation. We are grateful to Ferguson for investing in these moments of discovery and confidence that can change the direction of a young person's life."

Camp participants say the experience provides valuable insight into careers they may not have otherwise considered.

"The amount of opportunity that this camp has given me is definitely going to impact my future in the trades positively," said Nathaniel, an HMSE camper.

Long-Term Focus on Skilled Trades Recruitment

The HMSE partnership is part of Ferguson's broader workforce development strategy aimed at connecting 50,000 young people with skilled trades careers by 2030.

In addition to HMSE, Ferguson supports organizations including the mikeroweWORKS Foundation, Explore the Trades and Tools & Tiaras to increase awareness of career opportunities throughout the plumbing, HVAC, mechanical and construction industries.

Together, Ferguson and HMSE hope to strengthen the pipeline of future skilled trades professionals by giving students early exposure to the industry while helping contractors address long-term workforce needs.

To learn more visit www.fergusonpressroom.com.