National grant program aims to expand access to skilled trades training
Bring Back the Trades has launched a national grant program, supported by Milwaukee Tool, aimed at expanding access to professional-grade equipment for skilled trades education programs across the United States.
The Bring Back the Trades Tool Grant Program will provide tool kits to public schools and community nonprofits, with applications accepted on a rolling basis. One organization will be selected each month to receive a grant valued at up to $1,500 to support tool programs.
“If we want the next generation to respect the trades, we have to give them tools worth respecting,” said Steve Turner, founder of Bring Back the Trades. “Across the country, vocational programs are often forced to teach with broken or inadequate equipment. By putting professional tools in the hands of students, we show them that their education and their future careers are worth the highest standard of excellence.”
The program is designed to address a reported $325.6 billion skilled trades gap by helping schools upgrade outdated equipment. Applicants can request specialized tool kits aligned with their curriculum, including plumbing, electrical, automotive and carpentry.
Tools will be shipped directly to selected organizations for use in classrooms and technical programs. Participating programs are expected to emphasize safety, maintenance and craftsmanship as part of the initiative.
Public schools and registered nonprofit organizations in the U.S. are eligible to apply. Winners are selected based on program impact, equipment needs and commitment to safety practices. Organizations may reapply every six months and can receive the award once every three years.
Milwaukee Tool will supply professional-grade equipment to replace consumer-level or outdated tools, reflecting the technology used on modern jobsites.
“When students train with the same tools used on professional jobsites, it changes how they see their future in the trades,” said Scott Teson, senior vice president of skilled trades at Milwaukee Tool. “Our partnership with Bring Back the Trades is about removing barriers to entry and helping the next generation build real skills from day one.”
The company said it invests more than $10 million annually in hands-on education initiatives supporting skilled trades training. In 2025, Milwaukee Tool reported supporting more than 600 apprentice graduations and donating over $4.5 million in equipment to trade schools nationwide. The company has also outlined a broader commitment to invest $200 million in the trades by 2030.
Bring Back the Trades is a nonprofit organization that provides scholarships and equipment to students pursuing careers in skilled trades, working with industry partners to support workforce development.
