AllTradesJournal

Trades Gap

3 articles

Experienced tradesperson mentoring an apprentice on a complex task, symbolizing the transfer of skills and knowledge to close the skilled trades gap.
Trades

Mentorship programs are key to closing the skilled trades gap by 2026.

In 2018, Bill 47 shifted the journeyperson-to-apprentice ratio from 3:1 to 1:1, dramatically expanding apprenticeship capacity nationwide.

Rick Donovan·July 1, 2026
Diverse skilled trades workers collaborating on a construction site, symbolizing the growing demand and shortage in the trades industry.
Trades

Skilled trades gap creates 1.4 million job openings by 2030

By 2030, America faces a deficit of 1.

Rick Donovan·April 22, 2026
Diverse tradespeople, including carpenters, electricians, and plumbers, working on a construction site, symbolizing private sector investment in skilled labor.
Trades

Beyond the Press Release: Why Large Private Sector Investments Are Crucial for Trades

Lowe's recent $250 million investment to train 250,000 tradespeople is a critical model for how large private sector capital can sustainably address the nation's escalating skilled trades gap, vital for economic growth and infrastructure development.

Rick Donovan·April 9, 2026