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An Exciting Opportunity for Philadelphia Students: The Skilled Trades All-Star Program

On June 9, 2026, a dynamic collaboration between the Philadelphia Phillies and NEST, a leader in integrated facilities management, will set the stage for students to explore career opportunities in the skilled trades through the Skilled Trades All-Star Program. This initiative aims to provide Philadelphia youth with essential insights into the myriad of roles within the fields of construction, maintenance, and facility management. Hosted at Citizens Bank Park, this program is designed to be an inspiring and educational experience.

Connecting Students with Real-World Careers

The event will welcome students from Liguori Academy, offering them a unique opportunity to see firsthand how Citizens Bank Park is prepared for major events, including the highly anticipated 2026 MLB All-Star Week. This program not only showcases the behind-the-scenes activities that keep one of Philadelphia's iconic venues running smoothly but also highlights the important contributions that skilled trades professionals make every day.

Kevin Beale, Senior Director of Business Development Suite Sales for the Phillies, emphasizes the significance of this initiative. He remarks, "Citizens Bank Park is a world-class venue because of the people who maintain, operate, and improve it every day. This program gives students a firsthand look at those careers while showing how skilled trades professionals play a critical role in preparing the ballpark for major moments like the 2026 Midsummer Classic."

A Hands-On Exploration of Facility Management

Students attending the Skilled Trades All-Star Program will get to tour key operational areas of Citizens Bank Park. Their itinerary includes visits to the HVAC controls room, carpentry shop, mechanical spaces, and grounds crew facilities. At each station, students will engage directly with members of the Phillies' facilities team and skilled trade professionals. This interaction will not only provide them insight into the systems and skills needed but also the practical safety measures and teamwork essential to operating a premier venue.

The Skilled Trades Advisory Council (STAC), established by NEST in 2023, recognized an urgent need to address the growing labor shortage by elevating awareness about careers in the trades. By launching the Skilled Trades All-Star Program, NEST aims to connect students with real-world experiences and clear pathways to successful careers.

Cultivating Future Generations of Trades Professionals

Rob Almond, CEO of NEST, encapsulates the program's mission by stating, "Programs like this are about creating access and awareness. By bringing students into environments like Citizens Bank Park, especially at a time when it's preparing for a global event, we can help them see the opportunity that exists in the skilled trades and the role they can play in it."

The partnership with Liguori Academy is particularly significant, as the academy continues to expand its Construction Trades Cohort. Students engage in hands-on training aligned with NCCER certifications, earning essential qualifications like OSHA-10. This rigorous training prepares them for immediate workforce entry while establishing pathways into registered apprenticeships and advanced training in skills such as carpentry, HVAC, plumbing, and electrical work.

A Bright Future Ahead

In summarizing the impact of the event, Samantha DiGeorge, Director of Advancement at Liguori Academy, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration. She stated, "We are excited about the opportunity to be part of the Skilled Trades All-Star Program with the Philadelphia Phillies and NEST. This is a natural extension of the work we are building for our students, giving them another opportunity to learn from industry leaders, apply their skills in real-world settings, and see the long-term possibilities available through careers in the trades."

Now in its third year, the Skilled Trades All-Star Program is evolving into a robust platform that educates and inspires the next generation while leveraging the visibility of professional sports to underscore the importance of the skilled trades. As students step out into the world equipped with knowledge and skills from this unique experience, they are poised to pursue fulfilling careers in essential fields that contribute to their communities and beyond.

About NEST

Founded in 1994, NEST has become a pioneer in the Integrated Facilities Management (IFM) sector across the United States and Canada. The company specializes in tactical day-to-day management of facilities, as well as providing financial consulting, analytics, and construction management for multi-site brands. With a dedication to customer satisfaction and operational excellence, NEST is committed to fostering growth and development for future trade professionals. For more information, visit enterNEST.com or follow them on LinkedIn.