CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA (CVILLE RIGHT NOW) The Charlottesville Regional Chamber of Commerce and the City’s Office of Economic Development are joining forces to spotlight the vital role of skilled trades in the local economy. Jenny Biche, Workforce Development Program Manager, emphasized the urgency of attracting younger workers to the trades. “It is critical to our community because it’s what keeps the lights on,” Biche said. She also pointed to a generational shift, noting many current trade professionals are retiring, and there’s a growing need to educate the next wave of workers on career opportunities. 

Ann Marie Hohenberger from the Chamber emphasized how skilled trades go far beyond just plumbing or carpentry. “You can potentially go to college and get your four-year degree and come out with a lot of debt… but when you get trained for a trade, there’s a job waiting for you and it’s a good paying job,” she said. The push to highlight these career paths comes amid a broader reevaluation of traditional college routes and increasing demand for hands-on, technical careers. 

To help raise awareness, the Chamber and the Office of Economic Development are hosting NextGen Skilled Trades Day on Saturday, October 4 at Piedmont Virginia Community College. The event will feature interactive stations, large equipment demos, and representatives from local schools and employers. “I’m describing it as Disneyland for the trades,” Biche said, adding the event is free and open to all, including career changers, high schoolers, and families. 

 More information and registration can be found at www.nextgenskilledtradesday.org. You can also listen for more information here: