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Celebrating National Tradesman Day

Every year on the third Friday of September, we celebrate National Tradesman Day, a time to recognize the men and women whose skill, precision, and commitment keep America moving forward. For those of us passionate about manufacturing and skilled trades education, this day is more than just a calendar date. It’s an opportunity to highlight the essential role tradespeople play in shaping industries, communities, and the next generation of workers.

Why Skilled Trades Matter now More Than Ever

From welders and CNC machinists to electricians and carpenters, tradespeople are the problem-solvers and builders behind our infrastructure and innovation. They are the ones who transform blueprints into reality, who ensure safety and quality in the products we rely on, and who carry forward a tradition of craftsmanship that is as critical today as it was a century ago.

For instructors, National Tradesman Day is a reminder of the incredible impact you have. Every lesson taught, every skill demonstrated, and every spark of inspiration you create helps sustain the pipeline of talent that our industries depend on.

A Day to Appreciate, and Elevate
the Trades

At Project MFG, we’re proud to shine a spotlight on skilled trades through competitions and partnerships that bridge education and industry. We see students step up to challenges that reflect real-world pressures, and we see instructors guiding them toward excellence. That kind of mentorship doesn’t just teach skills. It builds confidence that helps students feel proud about the work they are doing.

How You Can Celebrate

  • Recognize your peers and students – Take a moment to celebrate the achievements of those in your classroom, shop, or workplace.
  • Share success stories – Whether it’s a student excelling in competition or a tradesperson’s innovation on the job, these stories inspire others to see the value of skilled work.
  • Promote the profession – Encourage young people to consider a future in manufacturing and the trades. Remind them that these careers offer not just stability but the chance to innovate and lead.
  • Join the conversation – Use your platform! Whether that’s in a classroom, on LinkedIn, or within your professional network. Use yout voice to help raise awareness of National Tradesman Day.

The future of manufacturing

The demand for skilled trades continues to rise, and the responsibility to prepare future generations is a shared one. National Tradesman Day gives us the chance to pause and thank the individuals already carrying the torch, while also recommitting to equipping new talent with the skills they need to thrive.

To every tradesman and tradeswoman, and to every instructor and mentor cultivating the next wave of talent, thank you. You are not only the backbone of American manufacturing but also the bridge to its future!