(BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS) - The Construction and Building Trades are facing a defining challenge: A Workforce that is aging and retiring faster than it can be replaced.

As a result, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Boston (BGCB) and the Rising Stars Program have joined together to launch Trade Trailblazers, bringing together BGCB's Youth Development and Workforce Readiness expertise with Rising Stars' industry connections to help Boston teens explore pathways into the Union Trades.

The seven-week Pre-Apprenticeship Program introduces 17- and 18-year-olds to 15 Union Trades through hands-on training, safety certification and career exploration.

"The Skilled Labor shortage is a nationally-known problem," said David Hutchinson, who serves as Executive Director of the Rising Stars Program. "We are excited to launch Trade Trailblazers with Boys and Girls Clubs of Boston, creating a program that is mutually beneficial to both our inspired youth and an eager industry."

The curriculum begins at Madison Park Vocational High School, where participants engaged in sessions on technical education, financial literacy, career readiness and long-term success in the trades.

The students complete OSHA 10 training and the Hot Work certification, led by Madison Park's CTE team, with additional workshops facilitated by Matt "PK" Power-Koch, who serves as Trades Pathway Director for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Boston.

The Trade Trailblazers prioritize Union-driven connections rather than classroom instruction alone.

Each Union leads interactive workshops that expose young people to the work, culture and community of the Trade, providing the opportunity to explore and compare which routes align with their strengths. 

To Read This Apprenticeship And Training Labor News Story In Its Entirety, Go To: Boys & Girls Clubs of Boston and Rising Stars Program Partner to Build Boston's Next Generation of Tradespeople