TradesFutures

08/28/2026

One million union work hours and counting.

A major milestone for The Barn in Saline Township, Michigan, where more than 1,800 union tradespeople are helping build the infrastructure of the future.

To help ensure local residents have access to the quality careers this investment is creating, Michigan WDI's Access for All Apprenticeship Readiness Program is running a cohort in Washtenaw County with support from TradesFutures.

Milestones like this underscore the critical role of a strong skilled trades workforce and the importance of creating pathways that connect more people to Registered Apprenticeship and family-sustaining union careers.

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SALINE TOWNSHIP, MI (August 27, 2026) – Related Digital, Oracle, Walbridge, Blackstone and leadership from the National and Michigan skilled trades workforce building The Barn, the data center campus in Saline Township, today celebrated one million craft hours logged on the project. Leaders from t...

08/28/2026

Congratulations to , Mary Gomez. Mary is a Sheet Metal Worker with SMART LOCAL 67.

Her journey into trades began with a teacher who recognized her potential before she even saw it herself. Encouraged to join a union, she embraced the opportunity and continued to grow with the support of fellow journeymen who recognized her ambition, encouraged her confidence, and taught her to take pride in her craft.

Her story is defined by resilience, confidence, and the determination to learn.

"Some challenges that I’ve faced are people doubting my ideas, nasty attitudes and people expecting me to not be as smart as I am. I overcame them by proving them wrong and sticking to my decisions. I prove to them that I can keep up with them at work and speaking up. I also speak to other blue-collar women and come to a solution. Remember that we are not alone."

One of Mary’s proudest moments came when she left one company, knowing another opportunity was already waiting for her. An achievement that stands out most was receiving a call from her former supervisor letting her know the general contractor had been asking to bring her back, a testament to the quality of her work and the reputation she built through dedication and skill.

"That's what you want to hear and to show people you know what you’re doing."

Mary continues to stay motivated by embracing every opportunity to learn, believing that growth never stops and that every day brings the chance to become even better.

Thank you, Mary, for your perseverance, leadership, and commitment to inspiring the next generation of tradeswomen.

This post is sponsored by Milwaukee Tool.

08/28/2026

08/28/2026

For most of her working life, Diana Yamaya bounced between entry-level jobs in restaurants and retail. Despite her hard work and commitment to these jobs, she found herself living paycheck to paycheck, often feeling overworked and underpaid while struggling to maintain reliable health insurance. “...

08/27/2026

Jason Comitz joined IBEW Local 163 at 19 and is now wiring data centers across northeastern Pennsylvania.

08/27/2026

The people who build America deserve good jobs, strong wages, and a seat at the table. We’re proud to stand with the men and women who get the job done. 💪

08/27/2026

Meet Steven Gross 👏

Raised by his grandmother and navigating life largely on his own from a young age, Steven found his path forward through HIRE360's Climate Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program, delivered with the East Central Illinois Building And Construction Trades Council. With hands-on training, stipends, and a strong support system behind him, Steven graduated, got his license, bought a car, and landed an apprenticeship with Ironworkers Local 380 in Urbana.

Proud of you, Steven! 🎓🔨

08/27/2026

08/26/2026

On Women’s Equality Day, we celebrate the women who are building careers, breaking barriers, and creating new possibilities for the next generation.

At WRTP / BIG STEP, we’re proud to help women access the skills, resources, and opportunities they need to pursue family-sustaining careers in the skilled trades and beyond.

Today and every day, we remain committed to creating pathways where women can thrive, lead, and build a stronger future.

View our upcoming events:
🔗 https://wrtp.org/events

08/26/2026

Today, on Women’s Equality Day, we honor the women who have shaped progress. In the skilled trades and beyond, equality means expanding access, creating opportunity, and ensuring every person has the chance to thrive.