We have a crisis within skilled trades. Local businesses are struggling to find enough talent to fill their job openings; this will only compound as experienced employees continue to retire over the next decade. In addition, high school graduates are increasingly searching for career paths beyond the expensive option of going to a traditional four-year college.

The Scouting program includes effective introductions to several skilled trades through merit badges and activities; however, the Council currently offers very few of these opportunities locally. Our new Skilled Trades Center at Camp Friedlander will provide a safe, effective, and unique venue to introduce, educate and instruct Scouts as well as community youth to the in-demand field of skilled trades.