A common industry theme is readily apparent, not only locally, but coast to coast/border to border: We need to address our workforce ASAP. The remodeling industry is thriving, and many of our members are having their some of their best years, but the new crisis is becoming how to get it all the work done. During the economic downturn, many skilled laborers left this workforce and didn’t return. Couple that with the aging skilled craftsman (average age in skilled trades is 54/55), and the fact that there is not a new generation of carpenters, framers, electricians, plumbers, skilled trades, etc. entering the workforce, and we’re faced with a dilemma that has no visible solution.
Rather than make this a just a topic of discussion, NARI Charlotte decided to be a proactive part of the solution. We like to exhibit and participate in as many local career fairs and school presentations as we can, to offer meaningful career guidance to the next generation of professionals. The intent is to present Skilled Trades as a viable career path, honorable and honest, as a way to put others to work while developing a marketable skill, and a path toward business ownership, which can be a lucrative pursuit.
Participating in the 2017 Charlotte Career Discovery Day allowed NARI Charlotte to connect with the local Boy Scouts Exploring Director, which opened the doors to partnership for both organizations. Over the summer of 2017, we handled the paperwork, registration, background checks and developed a curriculum to establish NARI Charlotte as the Skilled Trades Exploring Post for Mecklenburg County. Our initial curriculum of six sessions included:
- Introduction to Skilled Trades / Career Paths and Opportunities for Residential Remodeling
- Planning – Interior Design / Drafting / Architecture / Engineering
- Mechanical Skills – Plumbing / Electrical / HVAC
- Interior/Exterior Remodeling – Kitchen & Bath / Roofing-Siding-Windows / Additions
- Code Enforcement / Licensure / Government Compliance
- Completion Recognition (NARI National Officers present)
The final meeting took place at the NARI National Spring Business Meeting, and not only included chapter representatives from all 50 NARI chapters, and the national officers, but also included the National Exploring Director of the Boy Scouts of America, Dr. Dianne Thornton. This was a proud moment for both organizations and an inspiration to replicate this effort in all regions where NARI is represented. This is the beginning of a grand success.
If you are interested in learning more about this program, please contact Mike Waite at director@naricharlotte.com
