Educating the Next Generation of Innovators
TradesFutures Apprenticeship Readiness Programs are training the next generation of skilled workers to address the construction labor shortage needed to build housing. The skilled labor shortage is responsible for the lost production of thousands of newly built homes annually. Over 200 programs — the nation’s largest pre-apprenticeship network — supported by this national nonprofit, provide tuition-free education to prepare those interested in construction careers. Through their standardized, committee-developed multi-craft curriculum they focus on building essential skills like construction math, OSHA safety, and multi-trade exposure so TradeFutures participants enter formal apprenticeships prepared to succeed.
Unlocking Career Success
Traditional trade schools often charge thousands in tuition, creating a significant financial barrier for those interested in construction as a career. TradesFutures addresses this challenge by offering a tuition-free, 120-hour curriculum that has already helped launch thousands of students into successful careers in the skilled trades.
270 programs
in 34 states
30,000+ participants
since TradesFutures' inception
7,700 students
in 2025
TradesFutures is honored to be recognized as an Ivory Prize winner because we understand that increasing housing supply begins with investing in the skilled tradespeople who make it possible. We can’t solve the housing affordability crisis without the people who build our communities.
Marina Zhavoronkova
TradesFutures Executive Director