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Editorial illustration for Google.org Grant Boosts HBI's Skilled Trades Training for Veterans
Trades

Google.org Grant Boosts HBI's Skilled Trades Training for Veterans

The Home Builders Institute (HBI) has received a grant from Google.org to significantly expand its skilled trades training programs for transitioning military service members, veterans, military spouses, and their families. This funding will enhance HBI's existing program, increasing training capacity and job placement support to help military-connected individuals transition into civilian careers.

Rick Donovan·Sep 25
Young men and women learning and practicing carpentry, electrical, and plumbing skills in a modern, well-equipped vocational training facility.
Trades

Young workers increasingly choose skilled trades

Enrollment in vocational-focused community colleges recently surged by 16%, according to The Advocate , signaling a significant shift in post-high school aspirations among young workers.

Rick Donovan·Sep 20
After You Order, Choice Metal Buildings Works With Manufacturing Partners Through Installation
Industry

After You Order, Choice Metal Buildings Works With Manufacturing Partners Through Installation

Choosing a metal building is a significant investment, but the process doesn't end once you've selected a design. The journey from order to a fully installed structure involves multiple stages, from manufacturing to deli…

Sponsored by Choice Metal Buildings·Oct 20
A mechanical contractor in a hard hat uses a new digital layout tool from DEWALT, powered by Trimble, on a construction site.
Tools & Equipment

Trimble and DEWALT Launch New Digital Layout Tool

Mechanical contractors, long reliant on tape measures and chalk lines, can now access a digital layout tool from DEWALT, powered by Trimble.

Kyle Brenner·Sep 20
Split image showing a busy, high-tech factory floor contrasted with a quieter, less active domestic production line, illustrating the surge in German machine tool orders versus declining production.
Industry

German machine tool orders surge globally, but domestic production shrinks

In the first half of 2026, incoming orders for German machine tools surged by 14%, even as domestic production plummeted by 7%.

Rick Donovan·Sep 20
An unkempt public park in Archer City with overflowing trash cans and neglected landscaping, symbolizing the impact of budget cuts on city services.
Services

Archer City Approves 2026 Budget, Eliminates Cleaning Services

Archer City's tentative budget for Fiscal Year 2026-27 eliminates public cleaning services and reduces staff by 1.

Rick Donovan·Sep 19
Diverse young adults learning carpentry, electrical, and plumbing skills in a bright, modern vocational training workshop.
Trades

US Expands Skilled Trades Training Programs Amidst Growing Demand

Wages in the skilled trades have surged by 30% since 2022, signaling a dramatic shift in the value and appeal of hands-on careers.

Rick Donovan·Sep 19
Getting to Know TworkX: The Essentials for Site Engineers and Project Engineers
Tools & Equipment

Getting to Know TworkX: The Essentials for Site Engineers and Project Engineers

TworkX is a construction software tool designed to help site and project engineers create complete and accurate temporary works design briefs ready to issue to designers. In the fast-paced environment of Australian const…

Sponsored by TworkX·Oct 15
Futuristic SEMA Show display featuring AI telematics, holographic diagnostics, and advanced automotive technology.
Tools & Equipment

SEMA Showcases 2023 Jobsite Telematics and Automotive Advancements

At SEMA 2023, exhibitors showcased AI-powered telematics systems that predict equipment failure with 95% accuracy.

Luis Ortega·Sep 19
A homeowner stressed by an unexpected pool maintenance bill from SC Coastal Pools, highlighting unpredictable pricing and service terms.
Services

SC Coastal Pools: Unpredictable Pricing and Service Terms

Despite the promise of hassle-free pool maintenance, customers signing up with SC Coastal Pools could see their final bill fluctuate significantly based on 'actual pool condition' or face immediate se

Rick Donovan·Sep 18
Young students at a technical academy receive essential tools and equipment from community volunteers during the Southern Nevada Tools for Trades drive.
Trades

Southern Nevada Tools for Trades drive boosts skilled labor support

In 2025, the Southern Nevada Tools for Trades drive collected nearly 1,000 tools and $800, directly equipping future construction and skilled trades professionals.

Rick Donovan·Sep 18
Brand new garbage collection trucks and street sweeping vehicles belonging to the Piraeus municipality parked and ready for service.
Services

Piraeus municipality adds new vehicles to its cleaning fleet

Piraeus municipality just unveiled a massive new cleaning fleet, including 70 garbage collection trucks and 34 street-sweeping vehicles, purchased entirely with its own revenues, according to Ekathime

Rick Donovan·Sep 17
How Much Does Managed IT Cost for a Small Business?
Services

How Much Does Managed IT Cost for a Small Business?

Understanding the cost of managed IT services for small businesses depends on various factors, including the number of users, environmental complexity, and required services. While per-user pricing is common, the real value lies in what services are covered and what additional costs might be incurred.

Sponsored by Sector 7 Networks·Oct 15
Futuristic cityscape showcasing advanced automotive trade innovations and technology, symbolizing the early surge in interest for the SEMA Show 2026.
Tools & Equipment

SEMA Show 2026 Spotlights Automotive Trade Innovations Early

Over a million net square feet of indoor exhibit space has already been committed for the 2026 SEMA Show, signaling an unprecedented surge in industry interest more than two years out.

Luis Ortega·Sep 17
A busy US construction site with cranes and unfinished buildings, showing a diverse group of skilled trades workers facing high demand and pressure.
Trades

US construction firms grapple with demand for skilled trades workers

Construction firms across the U.

Rick Donovan·Sep 17
A DIY mechanic's hands holding a specialized tool, with an AutoZone store aisle blurred in the background, symbolizing the Loan-A-Tool program's support for car repairs.
Automotive Services

AutoZone's Loan-A-Tool Program Empowers DIY Mechanics

AutoZone has loaned millions of specialty tools to do-it-yourselfers, but this seemingly generous program is a calculated move to secure its dominance in the auto parts market.

Luis Ortega·Sep 14
Craftsman applying penetrating wood oil finish to a weathered wooden deck, showcasing deep sheen and natural wood grain.
Projects

2026 Market Analysis: Penetrating Wood Oil Finishes See Strong Growth

Last year, exterior wood stain applications alone generated $2 billion in revenue in the United States.

Scott Ramirez·Sep 14
From Appointment to Distribution, Alatsas Law Firm Handles New York Trust Administration for Trustees
Services

From Appointment to Distribution, Alatsas Law Firm Handles New York Trust Administration for Trustees

Serving as a trustee in New York carries significant legal and financial responsibilities. For those appointed to this crucial role, navigating the complexities of asset management, beneficiary communication, and legal c…

Sponsored by Alatsas Law Firm·Oct 12
Diverse group of people in a bright workshop sharing tools and collaborating on DIY projects, fostering a strong sense of community.
Tools & Equipment

Local tool libraries foster community sharing with new initiatives

In a single New Paltz Repair Cafe event, experts successfully fixed 71 out of 85 broken items, demonstrating a robust community initiative for shared resources and repair.

Kyle Brenner·Jun 9
Close-up of a hand installing a drywall anchor into a wall on a construction site, symbolizing market growth and demand.
How-To

Drywall Anchor Market Trends Show Strong Demand Growth

The global drywall anchor market, a seemingly niche segment, is projected to swell from $1.

Scott Ramirez·Jun 8
A close-up shot of various cordless multi-rotary tools, including drills and grinders, arranged on a workbench with sawdust and project materials, emphasizing their professional and DIY applications.
Tools & Equipment

Cordless multi-rotary tools market valued at $970.6M in 2025

The cordless multi-rotary tools market, valued at USD 970.

Kyle Brenner·May 15
Close-up of hands using a cordless multi-rotary tool for precision work, showcasing the growing DIY market and technological advancements in power tools.
Tools & Equipment

Cordless multi-rotary tools market analysis shows strong 2030 growth

The U.S. market for cordless multi-rotary tools, valued at US$243.3 Million in 2024, according to Researchandmarkets , is part of a global segment projected to nearly double to US$1.2 Billion by 2030,

Luis Ortega·May 15
Prime Star Roofing for Dublin Roofs from Steam Cleaning and Moss Removal to Slate and Ridge-Tile Repairs
Services

Prime Star Roofing for Dublin Roofs from Steam Cleaning and Moss Removal to Slate and Ridge-Tile Repairs

For Dublin homeowners, maintaining a sound and clean roof is essential for protecting their property's value and structural integrity. When issues like leaks, storm damage, or moss growth arise, finding a reliable expert…

Sponsored by Prime Star Roofing·Oct 8
Advanced cleaning robots autonomously cleaning a modern, spotless airport terminal, showcasing efficiency and automation in facility management.
Services

Cleaning services market sees growth, automation

Shanghai Pudong International Airport slashed its cleaning labor costs by 60% after deploying 50 Gausium cleaning robots, signaling a significant transformation in the traditionally labor-intensive cl

Rick Donovan·May 13