High Profile Expo at NHTI Jump Starts Interest in the Trades

More than 3,000 middle and high school students, parents, and job seekers flocked to NHTI – Concord’s Community College on November 15 for the first “NH Bringing Back the Trades” event to raise awareness about careers in the trade professions. The Community College System of NH (CCSNH) hosted the sold-out event, partnering with the Bring Back the Trades non-profit, PROCON, and Grappone Automotive Group. 

The event featured food trucks, bands, and stand-up comedy – all focused on sharing the message that New Hampshire and the nation do not have enough skilled trades people to meet demand. For every two people starting a career in the trades, five skilled tradespeople are retiring. 

“If you are looking for opportunities, you have found them. There are 8 million jobs in this country that don’t require a four-year degree. They require training, curiosity, and a strong work ethic. If you have those, you will write your own ticket,” said keynote speaker Mike Rowe, best known as the star of the “Dirty Jobs” TV program. In an onstage interview with Governor-elect Kelly Ayotte, Rowe spoke passionately about the jobs available in a wide range of trades and the rewards of a career where the results of your hard work are tangible. “It is very satisfying in ways that people don’t talk about today,” he said.

More than 80 organizations in industries ranging from construction and affiliated fields to manufacturing and automotive shared information with attendees. The four-hour event culminated in the presentation of more than $50,000 in training scholarships based upon applications submitted by participants prior to the event.

“CCSNH has a long history of integrating work skills with education. Bringing Back the Trades highlighted our vital role as a bridge between these two worlds to expand opportunities for both our businesses and citizens,” said CCSNH Chancellor, Dr. Mark Rubinstein.

Through more than 200 degree and certificate programs and ApprenticeshipNH, a workforce program of CCSNH, New Hampshire’s community colleges play a lead role in encouraging, educating and training thousands of individuals to fill key skilled trade positions across the Granite State.