Onaway, Michigan; November 19, 2024

The Industrial Arts Institute is honored to be recognized as a DEWALT Grow the Trades Grant recipient, aimed at enhancing our Welding and Metal Fabrication programs by acquiring essential equipment needed to train welders and fabricators across the various programs we offer.

With an estimated 500,000 open construction jobs unfilled, DEWALT’s Grow the Trades Grants aim to help close the skilled labor gap by supporting nonprofit organizations that are skilling, reskilling, and upskilling tradespeople. The program awards funding and tool donations each year as part of a larger $30 million commitment over five years to close the skilled trades gap. 

The Industrial Arts Institute was selected as one of 166 organizations providing greater accessibility and resources for trades training. 

“It is a privilege for our Welding and Metal Fabrication program to receive recognition and support from the DEWALT Grow the Trades Grant,” stated Tamara Ward, Executive Director at the Industrial Arts Institute. “Such partnerships are vital for equipping our IAI welders to successfully enter the workforce, contributing to an impressive industry placement rate of 90%,” Ward continued.

“DEWALT is immensely proud to support the Industrial Arts Institute as they work to skill and reskill the tradespeople of tomorrow, moving us closer to our shared goal of closing the trade skills gap,” said Frank Mannarino, President and General Manager of DEWALT. “Funding educational programs and non-profits like the Industrial Arts Institute, a Northern Michigan premier welding & fabrication school, connects more people to training, resources, and opportunities that will lead to successful careers in the trades.”

To learn more about the DEWALT Grow the Trades Grant, recipients, and updates for the upcoming application period, please visit DEWALT Grow the Trades.

About the Industrial Arts Institute

The Industrial Arts Institute is licensed by the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO). It is a Veteran Approved Training Facility and a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Our mission is to cultivate a skilled workforce by combining innovative education with traditional training methods, effectively connecting talent with professional skilled trades industries. For more information, please visit iaiworks.com.

About DEWALT
DEWALT, a Stanley Black & Decker brand, celebrates 100 years in business by continuing to provide our customers with total jobsite and landscaping solutions. By applying its latest technology to the challenges of today’s skilled trades, DEWALT is leading the charge for the jobsite of the future and pioneering the next generation of tools, outdoor equipment and forward-looking technologies. DEWALT products. GUARANTEED TOUGH®. For more information, visit www.dewalt.com or follow DEWALT on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

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