Save the Trades: A Continued Commitment to Workforce Development and Education
In 2019, the Adirondack Regional Chamber of Commerce’s Leadership Adirondack Class faced an important decision: selecting a community fundraising project. After many conversations and careful consideration, the class launched a much-needed scholarship program to support adult students pursuing careers in the skilled trades.
“Each Leadership Adirondack class seeks to identify and meet the unique needs of our local economy. The class of 2019-2020 determined that workforce development, particularly within the trades, was of critical importance to our community. We were able to leverage the network of the ARCC to bring awareness to this issue as well as raise meaningful funds to develop the LADK Trades Scholarship,” said Ryan Haig, LADK Class of 2020 alum and Account Executive at Amsure.
The demand for skilled trades workers has surged across industries, driven by aging infrastructure, an uptick in construction, and a wave of retirements. Roles such as electricians, plumbers, welders, carpenters, and HVAC technicians are vital to both economic growth and daily life. Yet, many of these positions remain unfilled. As younger generations gravitate toward four-year degrees, fewer are entering vocational pathways—creating a critical gap in the workforce.
Beyond filling jobs, careers in the skilled trades offer stability, strong earning potential, and room for advancement. From construction and manufacturing to green energy and emerging technologies, these roles continue to evolve with digital tools and technical innovation. Closing the skills gap requires investment in vocational training, apprenticeships, and a cultural shift that recognizes the trades as valuable, future-proof professions.
“The ARCC Leadership Adirondack Scholarship plays a vital role in helping adult learners overcome financial barriers and pursue rewarding careers in the skilled trades. The majority of BOCES ETA program applicants need financial assistance, and this scholarship fills a critical gap, empowering adults 18 and older to enter high-demand fields like machining, auto technology, and commercial driving. As our region continues to face a shortage of skilled trade workers, programs like this are essential to building a strong, sustainable workforce,” said Michelle Stockwell, Administrator for Adult Programs.
On December 10, 2019, the Leadership Adirondack Class hosted the “Support the Trades” fundraising event at The Park Theater in downtown Glens Falls, NY. Over 200 attendees gathered in support of the cause. Through ticket sales, a silent auction, and donations, more than $31,000 was raised to launch the scholarship program. A ceremonial check was presented to Dr. Turina Parker and Michelle Stockwell of WSWHE BOCES during the class’s graduation ceremony in February 2020.
Since then, the impact has been tangible. Twenty-six adult learners have received scholarships to pursue training in CDL, welding, HVAC, and residential construction programs.
“The scholarship is intended to help people 18 years or older to start or extend careers in the fields of manufacturing, construction, or CDL. It benefits individuals participating in the BOCES Employment Training for Adults (ETA) program by providing financial assistance to eligible students who wish to enroll in skilled trades classes. Five years later, the scholarship program is still being utilized, and we hope it will continue to be for years to come,” Haig added.
As the demand for skilled trades continues to rise, the Leadership Adirondack Trades Scholarship stands as a testament to what local collaboration can achieve—and a beacon of opportunity for those ready to build a better future. With five years of proven impact, the program continues to empower individuals and strengthen the region’s workforce—reminding us that investing in people is the surest path to lasting progress.
Amanda Blanton, Vice President of Marketing & Communications for the Adirondack Regional Chamber of Commerce (ARCC), leverages her expertise to promote regional business growth and community engagement, serving as a key advocate for the ARCC’s mission to foster a thriving economy in Essex, Warren, Washington, and northern Saratoga counties.