Alliance Aims to Expand Construction Workforce

Four companies have launched an initiative to expand skilled trades training and create additional pathways into construction, electrical work and other technical careers.

BlackRock, Carhartt, Ford Motor Co. and Google announced the Alliance for America’s Skilled Trades, with the founding members already supporting workforce training initiatives in 30 states.

The alliance was formed as employers face increasing demand for skilled workers in construction, infrastructure, energy and manufacturing. The companies cited a JLL projection that 2.1 million skilled trades positions could remain unfilled by 2030, including positions for builders, electrical workers and technicians.

The initiative will work to increase exposure to skilled trades careers and provide clearer pathways into the industry. It will also support apprenticeships and pre-apprenticeship programs that combine job training with paid work experience.

Burning Glass and Jobs for the Future will work with the alliance on a report intended to identify workforce gaps, track progress and share effective approaches to workforce development.

The alliance also plans to recruit additional industry, labor, education and nonprofit participants. Its founding members said they will build on existing work with labor unions, trade associations and professional organizations across the construction and electrical industries.

BlackRock has committed $100 million in grant funding over five years through its Future Builders initiative. The funding will go to nonprofit and workforce development partners working to connect 50,000 people with skilled trades training. The initiative will also support workers through program completion and licensing while providing financial education resources.

Carhartt’s For the Love of Labor program has supported more than 60 nonprofit and community organizations since it was introduced in 2022. Those organizations provide education and training intended to help fill skilled trades openings.

Ford plans to spend $300 million on skilled trades workforce development in 2026. Its commitment also covers the Essential Economy, which the company defines as industries including construction, manufacturing, energy, public services, transportation and logistics.

Google has committed $50 million to programs supporting 14 labor unions and four trade and contractor associations. The funding is expected to support training for more than 300,000 workers across more than 20 states.

Bayo Ogunlesi, chairman and CEO of Global Infrastructure Partners, a part of BlackRock, said “Investment in America’s infrastructure will help shape the country’s long-term economic trajectory, but its success ultimately depends on the skilled workforce that brings these projects to life. Expanding that talent pipeline requires long-term commitment and partnership across sectors. BlackRock and GIP are proud to launch the Alliance for America’s Skilled Trades to support the workers who will build, operate, and maintain the infrastructure that underpins America’s future competitiveness.”

Linda Hubbard, president and CEO of Carhartt, added, “For more than 137 years, Carhartt has proudly served the skilled men and women who build, repair, and keep America running. Through the Alliance for America’s Skilled Trades, we’re honored to work alongside like-minded organizations to raise awareness of the trades and open more pathways to meaningful careers that strengthen families, communities, and our economy.”