Recruiting the next generation of professionals has been a priority for the North Atlantic States Regional Council of Carpenters due to the growing demand for skilled laborers throughout the country. 

In his career, Rich Bogardus has gained various skills he is proud to share with the next generation.

"We have some hands-on things for students to do, which they always love,” Bogardus said. “A carpenter does a lot of work they didn't know about. They have endless options, and they can get an education for free. At the training fund and then a tuition-free career in the field.”

The American Welding Society predicts a need for 400,000 more welders by 2024. Over that time, HVAC and electric job openings are expected to grow by 14%. Since women make up less than 10% of skilled trade jobs in the country, according to Career School Now, many trades look at women to fill some of these roles.

“Women sometimes gravitate towards welding because they tend to be very detailed-oriented,” Bogardus said. “They can do anything in this industry. Women are not limited. They can do anything they want."

Exposing students to the trades industry will likely fill more jobs over the next decade. Destini Cole, a junior at Shaker High School, encourages women considering the trades to get involved,

"Do it,” Cole said. “Do it because if you feel like you can and want to, you should just do it."

Carpenters at the North Atlantic States Regional Council of Carpenters receive structured training to ensure they are fully qualified, well-rounded and productive. In addition to classroom and workshop training, the council offers jobs with industry professionals with extensive experience.

“If a member joins the apprenticeship, they'll attend four classes yearly,” Bogardus said. “The state requires employees to work a certain number of hours and complete a four-year program. As soon as they finish four classes and work hours, they advance. Once they complete the program for four years, they are released as a journeyman with full pay and benefits.”

According to the National Kitchen & Bath Association, both males and females were interested in skilled trade careers. More than 200 students from the Capital Region participated in the two-day hands-on training, learning how to use tools, pour concrete and build safely. 

"There are some safety features on some of the drills that I didn't even know existed or even were a concern, but I'm glad to know there are safety features,” Colonie High School student Joe Rehbit said.

If you or anyone you know is interested in a field in the trades industry, you can get more information about training and classes at www.NASRCC.org.