Welcome to “The Good Stuff,” where we highlight positive news and ways that NAED employees and member companies go above and beyond to give back to their communities! If you have some “Good Stuff” that you would like to share with tED, find out how below.
In this issue of “The Good Stuff,” IDEAL Electrical has launched a grant program to help address the shortage of trained electricians.
The electrical industry is facing a shortage of trained electricians, and the need is growing. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects the country will need 9% more electricians in 2035 than it did in 2025.
IDEAL Electrical launched the Pathways Fund to address this issue. The grant program helps skilled trades students cover non-academic costs so they can finish their programs and start their careers.
According to The Hope Center, 73% of two-year college students report basic needs insecurity, and 83% of students who left school cited it as a reason. A car repair, a gap in childcare or a certification exam fee can be enough to end someone’s training.
The pilot program includes a $50,000 initial investment in Midwest community colleges, with plans to expand to additional schools and regions. Each partner school receives a $10,000 annual grant to cover student needs like transportation, childcare, food security, mental health services and certification exam fees, along with donated IDEAL Electrical tools and supplies for hands-on learning.
“Students learn best when they can focus on building skills rather than worrying about affording basic needs,” said Nicole Juday, Director of the IDEAL Foundation. “IDEAL Industries has supported the skilled trades for more than 100 years, and through the Pathways Fund, we’re proud to help more students begin their careers in the trades.”
The first two recipients are Hennepin Technical College in Brooklyn Park, Minnesota, and Milwaukee Area Technical College, both selected for the strength of their electrical programs and apprenticeship placement rates.
Find more “Good Stuff” articles here on tEDmag.com.
tED wants to know about your “Good Stuff”. If you work with someone who is helping other people, or a group of co-workers who are creating better outcomes, we want to know about it.
Please send your “Good Stuff” to Marie at mjakle@naed.org and Nicky at nherron@naed.org. Send details, names, and photos if you have them.
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