WE'RE BUILDING THE WORKFORCE
AMERICA NEEDS.
Founded in Polk County, Florida, Trade Jobs Matter is a nonprofit on a mission to close the skilled trades gap — one student, one school, one employer at a time.
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FOUNDED ON A SIMPLE TRUTH
Founded by Joe Garrison, the Trade Jobs Matter Foundation was born from a frustration shared by contractors, school counselors, and parents alike: America has hundreds of thousands of unfilled skilled trade jobs, yet students are being steered away from the very careers that could give them financial freedom and purpose.
We started in Polk County, Florida — one of the fastest-growing counties in the state — and built a model that connects high schools, employers, and community leaders in a monthly convening that changes how students see their future.
Our model is designed to be replicated nationwide. Every chapter follows the same proven structure, ensuring consistent impact whether it's in Florida, Texas, or Ohio.
WHY TRADE JOBS MATTER
Educating the Community
Raising awareness among students, parents, and educators about the rewarding opportunities in skilled trades.
Creating Opportunities
Collaborating with local schools and employers to offer training programs, apprenticeships, and direct hiring pipelines.
Inspiring Through Stories
Sharing real-life success stories of local tradespeople to motivate the next generation to pursue skilled careers.
Strengthening Communities
Partnering with county leaders to drive economic and community development through a skilled, local workforce.
"A VIBRANT AMERICA WHERE SKILLED TRADES ARE CELEBRATED AS PATHWAYS TO FULFILLING CAREERS AND COMMUNITY PRIDE."
We believe every student deserves to know that a trade career is not a fallback — it's a launchpad. We're building the infrastructure to make that message impossible to ignore.
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