Students across Los Angeles County will get paid while earning credentials in skilled trades, such as construction, welding and solar panel installation, as part of an expanding initiative to offer students opportunities to good paying jobs in demanding industries. The program, L.A. County Skilled Trades Summers, was launched by Harbor Freight Tools for Schools.
Nearly 400 teenagers have signed up to participate at one of eight program sites to help prepare them for the workforce. By using the “earn and learn” model as a basis for the program, students can earn money while working toward a career in trades.
Skilled trades professionals are retiring faster than they can be replaced. However, skilled trades classes have often been removed from most high schools. The summer program aims to help bolster the workforce and demonstrate skills that can lead to stable, family-supporting careers after high school graduation.
“Our summer programs provide a really strong foundation in a variety of skilled trades that sets students up for success and connects them with incredible teachers and mentors,” said Belen Vargas, L.A. County Program Director at Harbor Freight Tools for Schools. “Giving students an early opportunity to explore career pathways can be – and often is – life changing.”
