Today, I had the privilege of speaking to the pre-apprenticeship students at Junior Achievement of South Florida about careers in the roofing and construction trades. What I expected to be a simple presentation turned into a powerful reminder of why this work matters so much.
These students showed up with curiosity, sharp questions, and a hunger to learn. They weren’t just listening—they were imagining their futures. And for many of them, the trades are not just an option—they’re a pathway to purpose, growth, and economic freedom.
The Numbers Don’t Lie
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, by 2028, the U.S. will face a shortage of over 3 million skilled trade workers. That’s not just a labor issue—it’s a leadership opportunity.
The construction, roofing, electrical, HVAC, and other skilled trades are essential to our economy, our infrastructure, and our way of life. And yet, we often overlook them in favor of more "glamorous" career paths. The truth is, the trades offer:
- High earning potential
- Low or no student debt
- Hands-on skill development
- Opportunities for entrepreneurship
- Meaningful, community-impacting work
Changing the Narrative
There’s a growing need to reframe how we talk about the trades—not as a fallback, but as a foundation. That starts with education, exposure, and access to mentorship, which is exactly what programs like Junior Achievement provide.
During my time with the students, we talked about real-world opportunities in roofing and construction, safety fundamentals, trade organizations that support growth, and how to position themselves for success. The energy in the room was undeniable, and the potential? Even more so.
Investing in the Next Generation
We cannot afford to ignore the growing talent gap. But more importantly, we shouldn’t ignore the untapped potential of the students who are ready and willing to step into these roles—with the right guidance and support.
At Solutions By Maya, we believe that creating strong businesses starts with strong people, and that includes preparing the next generation of leaders in every industry—especially the ones who build and protect our communities with their hands.
Thank you to Junior Achievement of South Florida for the opportunity to speak, and to @shotby_gadi (JA Pre-Apprenticeship student) for beautifully capturing the essence of this experience.
Let’s keep investing in people. Let’s keep building futures.
Interested in bringing this message to your school, organization, or company?