Survey Indicates High Demand for Skilled Trades Courses in Los Angeles County High Schools

Los Angeles County is at a crossroads, and the message from its constituents couldn't be clearer: it's time to bring back skilled trades education in our high schools. A recent poll conducted by EVITARUS on behalf of Harbor Freight Tools for Schools uncovered a groundswell of support, with over three-quarters of voters rallying behind the call for increased funding to reintroduce classes in construction, welding, and advanced manufacturing. It's a resounding endorsement from parents, students, and community members alike, signaling a collective recognition of the immense value these programs hold in paving pathways to rewarding careers.

Currently, the landscape is bleak, with fewer than 20% of public high schools across the county offering any form of skilled trades education. The scarcity of such programs stands in stark contrast to the burgeoning demand in industries hungering for skilled workers. Southern California beckons with promising prospects, where an entry-level electrician or lineman can command annual salaries ranging from $65,000 to $100,000. Yet, the opportunities remain elusive for many due to the dearth of accessible training avenues.

In the face of this glaring disparity, Harbor Freight Tools for Schools, under the stewardship of Eric Smidt, is spearheading a crusade to reinvigorate vocational education. The resounding chorus of support, echoed by 84% of voters, 89% of parents, and 83% of students, underscores the urgency for state and local authorities to step up their investment in these vital programs. As the federal government funnels billions into infrastructure projects, the imperative to equip our youth with the requisite skills for these endeavors becomes all the more pressing.

Beyond the numbers lie the voices of students yearning for a chance to explore their passions and gain tangible skills that transcend the confines of traditional academia. With college costs soaring, high school emerges as the ideal battleground for nurturing talent and fostering practical expertise. It's a sentiment echoed by Brent Tuttle, a welding teacher at La Mirada High School, who laments the endangered status of programs like his own while celebrating the success stories of former students now flourishing in their trades. The message is clear: it's time to equip our youth for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

Source: https://hftforschools.org/newsroom/la-polling-2024/