DEWALT, a prominent brand under Stanley Black & Decker, has announced a $5 million commitment to support the growth of vocational skills in Europe over the next four years. This initiative, focused on addressing the skilled labour shortage across key European markets, will target tradespeople in the UK, France, Poland, and the Czech Republic. The announcement was made during the 2024 WorldSkills Competition in Lyon, France.
As part of its commitment, DEWALT will also distribute over $1 million worth of tools used in the WorldSkills Competition to technical and vocational schools throughout France. The move is part of a broader strategy to bolster vocational training and encourage young people to pursue careers in skilled trades.
Chris Nelson, Chief Operating Officer at Stanley Black & Decker, emphasised the urgency of addressing the shortage of skilled workers in Europe. Speaking during a panel discussion at the WorldSkills event, Nelson highlighted the significant impact the shortage is having on local economies and industries.
“The shortage of skilled labour has reached critical levels, posing significant challenges for economies across Europe,” said Nelson. “To tackle this pressing issue, DEWALT is committed to equipping the next generation of tradespeople with the tools, training, and resources they need to thrive in the workforce.”
The WorldSkills Competition, often referred to as the “Olympics of Skills”, brings together more than 1,400 competitors from 69 countries. These young professionals, representing a wide range of vocational disciplines, compete and showcase their expertise in various trades, including construction, engineering, and manufacturing. The event is held biennially and aims to inspire young people to pursue technical and vocational careers.
This year’s competition, which runs from 10 to 15 September 2024, is taking place in Lyon, France. The event is expected to draw significant attention, not only for the competitors’ displays of skill but also for its role in raising awareness of the growing demand for vocational education and training.
DEWALT, a long-standing supporter of WorldSkills International, has been a partner of the organisation for over a decade. In 2024, the company is serving as the Platinum Partner for the Lyon event, further reinforcing its dedication to fostering a skilled workforce.
In addition to the financial commitment, DEWALT’s collaboration with WorldSkills will ensure that technical schools benefit from the tools and resources provided, enabling students to train with industry-standard equipment. This initiative is part of DEWALT’s broader “Grow the Trades” programme, which aims to close the skilled trades gap by providing essential resources and promoting vocational careers.
Speaking about the company’s involvement, Nelson added, “Our partnership with WorldSkills is a reflection of DEWALT’s belief in the importance of technical education. We are proud to play a role in supporting the next generation of tradespeople and ensuring that they have the tools and knowledge necessary for a successful career in the trades.”
DEWALT’s $5 million investment comes at a time when Europe faces a growing demand for skilled workers in a range of industries, from construction to engineering. The initiative aims to address this gap by fostering a culture that values vocational education and supports young people in pursuing rewarding careers in these fields.
For more information about DEWALT’s Grow the Trades initiative and its ongoing commitment to vocational education, please visit the company’s official website.