At the SkillsUSA National Leadership and Skills Conference (NLSC), 3M welcomed students to its booth to explore how innovation is helping shape the future of skilled trades and manufacturing. Through interactive exhibits and hands-on experiences, students engaged with technologies and solutions spanning personal safety, electrical, consumer, abrasives and automotive applications.
Advancing the next generation of skilled trades professionals
Throughout the event, 3M showcased its commitment to supporting the next generation of skilled trades professionals by helping expand access to educational opportunities, developing innovative solutions for industry, and equipping workers to perform their jobs safely, effectively and confidently.
3M’s presence extended well beyond the exhibit hall. The company sponsored the Collision Repair Technology competition, donated products for multiple competitive events, supported volunteer activities, served as competition judges and connected directly with SkillsUSA student delegates. Together, these efforts reflected 3M’s broader commitment to empowering students as they prepare for careers in high-demand technical fields.
“Our continued collaboration with SkillsUSA reflects our commitment to advancing the future of skilled trades and manufacturing,” said Michael Stroik, vice president of 3M Community Impact. “By working together, we can create greater opportunities for students to develop the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in their careers and contribute positively in their communities.”
A national platform for career and technical education
SkillsUSA is the premier national workforce development organization for students, serving more than 442,000 members nationwide. The organization supports middle school, high school, and college students enrolled in career and technical education programs, helping them grow as skilled professionals, career-ready leaders, and responsible community members.
Its annual National Leadership and Skills Conference brings together students, educators, and industry leaders from across the country to celebrate achievement in career and technical education and highlight pathways into essential industries.
Addressing the skilled trades gap
As demand for skilled labor continues to increase, workforce development organizations and industry partners are working to help close a growing talent gap. According to projections from The Manufacturing Institute and Deloitte, the manufacturing industry alone will need 3.8 million additional workers by 2033, with as many as 1.9 million of those roles potentially going unfilled if workforce challenges are not addressed.
SkillsUSA focuses on inspiring young people to recognize the value, opportunity and long-term potential of skilled trade careers.
“We work to build greater awareness of skilled trade career paths and help young people understand the long-term opportunities they can offer,” said Chelle Travis, executive director of SkillsUSA. “Support from industry partners like 3M plays an important role in that effort by helping us spotlight these careers, connect students to real-world possibilities, and reinforce the value of technical skills in today’s workforce.”
A shared commitment to workforce readiness
3M’s participation at NLSC reflects a shared commitment with SkillsUSA to strengthening workforce readiness and supporting students pursuing technical careers. By investing time, expertise, and resources in career and technical education, 3M continues to help create opportunities for students to build skills, gain confidence and prepare for meaningful futures in the skilled trades.
