Lowe's Foundation Commits Nearly $9 Million to Empower Skilled Trades Through Gable Grants

Lowe's Foundation Invests in Skilled Trades Education

In a significant move to bolster the skilled trades workforce, the Lowe's Foundation has announced a remarkable initiative, allocating nearly $9 million in Gable Grants. This funding is aimed at enhancing the capabilities of 15 nonprofits dedicated to this pressing cause. The investment is a part of a broader strategy to prepare the next generation of tradespeople, amidst a burgeoning demand for skilled labor across the country. As wages in construction have risen by 4.4% over the past year, the need for trained professionals is more critical than ever.

The Lowe's Foundation, based in Mooresville, North Carolina, seeks to tackle the skills gap affecting many sectors, particularly in construction, by providing these organizations with the resources necessary to train individuals effectively. According to Janice Dupré, executive vice president of human resources at Lowe's, the collaboration with these nonprofits allows them to leverage modern training methodologies that unlock workforce potential. This not only boosts individual careers but also fuels economic growth by emphasizing skills over traditional four-year degrees.

The recipient organizations come from diverse regions, from Alaska to Mississippi, and each will tailor their programs to meet local needs. For instance, Alaska Works in Anchorage plans to expand its free, hands-on construction training, adding modules for carpentry, plumbing, electrical training, and building maintenance support.

In North Carolina, Hope Renovations is set to double its number of graduates by launching more cohorts to prepare individuals for careers in construction, while simultaneously providing essential home repairs for seniors. The initiative not only promotes career readiness but also addresses crucial community issues.

Another impactful program, Latino Academy of Workforce Development in Madison, Wisconsin, will run a bilingual skilled trades program aimed at equipping students with essential safety certifications, blueprint reading, and financial education. This support has successfully assisted over 10,000 individuals in south-central Wisconsin to date, showcasing the academy's long-term commitment to workforce development.

In Mississippi, Moore Community House will introduce an electrical training course particularly focused on residential construction, enhancing its existing programs. The nonprofit aims to produce a workforce that is well-prepared for opportunities in the growing construction sector.

Meanwhile, organizations like Next Step of West Michigan and Trade Institute of Pittsburgh will strengthen their training offerings, providing practical experience and expanding program capacities. Notably, the latter will increase the enrollment in its tuition-free masonry and carpentry training, indicating a robust effort to prepare more individuals for careers in the trades.

Boys & Girls Clubs of America also joins the list as a new national partner, utilizing its Gable Grant to improve job readiness in skilled trades for young adults. This partnership emphasizes the Lowe's Foundation's vision of creating pathways for the next generation, ensuring they are equipped to meet industry demands.

Overall, these strategic investments reflect a commitment to fostering a skilled workforce capable of meeting the needs of local economies. The foundation’s efforts have already exceeded $34 million in grants since 2023 and show no signs of slowing down. With an upcoming application cycle for community and technical colleges set for March, more opportunities are on the horizon.

As we look ahead, the Lowe's Foundation continues to pave the way for a rejuvenated skilled trades workforce, offering hope and growth in a field crucial for America’s future economic stability.

For more information on eligibility guidelines and the challenges facing the skilled trades sector, visit Lowes.com/Foundation.