Neil Gambow (who is a member of the Evanston Lighthouse Rotary Club) spoke to us about the Trade Collective which is a link between businesses that need skilled employees and high schools that can provide the necessary skills training. This is a wonderful career alternative for students who do not attend or finish college. Neil explained that about 40% of skilled trades professionals nationwide are expected to leave in the next 10 years.
For every person entering skilled trades professional careers, five are leaving. This is creating a serious demand for people to fill these positions. The Trade Collective introduces high school students to the many skilled trade professions that pay well and do not require a college degree. Working primarily with ETHS and Oakton, the Trade Collective conducts trade fairs and other events to inform students and parents of the demand for skilled trades professionals and how to obtain the necessary certifications.
