Lowe’s launches ‘Skilled Trades Academy’ for military families

Lowe’s is investing $500,000 to launch a new program aimed at helping military families begin careers in the trades.

What’s happening: The ‘Skilled Trades Academy’ is a six-week, in-person training program that will give military families foundational knowledge in HVAC, plumbing, and electrical, among other trades, Lowe’s announced Thursday. 

• The training will cover OSHA certifications, resume building, interview prep, and connections to potential employers.
• The program is being offered by Lowe’s; its charitable arm, the Lowe’s Foundation; and the veterans-focused initiative Hiring our Heroes. 

Why it matters: The Skilled Trades Academy is designed to help people transition from active duty to civilian careers, and to help alleviate the labor issues plaguing the skilled trades. 

• The veteran unemployment rate was three percent as of this July, while unemployment for military spouses was 20 percent in 2024, per federal statistics. 

Go deeper: The first training will take place in Jacksonville, North Carolina, near the Camp LeJeune Marine Corps base, at Coastal Carolina Community College, a Lowe’s spokesperson told Homepros. 

• The program is open to veterans, enlistees, and their spouses — and is free for participants. 
• It’s an approved Department of Defense SkillBridge program, so military personnel can participate during their final 180 days of service.

What they’re saying: “The Skilled Trades Academy is a bold step toward solving two urgent challenges: veteran underemployment and the national shortage of trades professionals,” Elizabeth O’Brien, senior vice president of events and programs at Hiring Our Heroes, said in a statement. 

The big picture: More than 40,000 job openings for HVAC technicians and installers are projected each year through 2033, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. 

• Over the past two years, the Lowe’s Foundation has invested $43 million as part of a five-year, $50 million commitment to support the trades.