Hardwood Floors December 2019/January 2020

many students have a difficult time finding stable jobs that don’t require increasingly expensive higher-education degrees. “The rising demand for trade professionals is outpacing vocational training. The skills gap is a real problem right now, and experiences, where high school students can learn both about the tools of the trade and profession itself, are tremendously empowering,” says McCabe. “Attendees were able to see for themselves that there are wonderful career opportunities out there in the industry waiting for them.” Brent Shively, Festool’s North American Product and Application Trainer, believes in-person educational experiences are an

ideal way to reach and inspire the next generation of tradespeople. “Festool is currently traveling all over the country to get students to not only become aware of our products; but also to let them know about the many career opportunities that are available for them,” explains Shively. “Through an event like this, we show students that they can work with good products, make good money, and have careers in rewarding fields like the hardwood flooring industry.” DuraSeal, PowerNail, Electro Plastics Inc. (STEPWarmfloor), and Lockwood Distributors were also on site to help educate students. g

“The rising demand for trade professionals is outpacing vocational training. The skills gap is a real problem right now, and experiences, where high school students can learn both about the tools of the trade and profession itself, are tremendously empowering.” — Kayleen McCabe, a general contractor, vocational advocate, and host of DIY Network’s Rescue Renovation

the magazine of the national wood flooring association

79