Tractor Supply, Carhartt donate to SkillsUSA

Tractor Supply Company and Carhartt have donated $150,000 to SkillsUSA to support its work preparing students for in-demand careers in the skilled trades. 

The donation was presented during during SkillsUSA Week, a nationwide event that provides state associations, advisors and student members the opportunity to promote SkillsUSA programs and activities at the local and state levels.

“The Support the Trades fundraiser, which aligns with our core values and commitment to supporting Life Out Here, has been impactful in so many ways,” said Marti Skold-Jordan, manager of the Tractor Supply Company Foundation. “We are raising awareness around the critical need for more skilled workers, and at the same time raising funds for SkillsUSA, which is making huge strides in preparing the next generation of those workers.”

Tractor Supply and Carhartt launched the Support the Trades fundraiser in 2021, with a portion of sales from the Carhartt-designed collection going toward SkillsUSA. This year’s August event included shirts, hats, knit caps and more.

“We’re proud to continue working alongside Tractor Supply in support of SkillsUSA’s mission to develop the workforce and attract students to careers in the skilled trades,” said Susan Hennike, chief brand officer for Carhartt. “Carhartt has a longstanding history and commitment to hardworking people in the skilled trades and we look forward to seeing the impact this donation will have on providing students the tools and resources they need to close the skills gap and make their own histories.”

According to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, as of August 2023, there were 616,000 total manufacturing job openings. 

“SkillsUSA is incredibly thankful for Tractor Supply’s and Carhartt’s dedication to our organization and the impact of our mission on students across the nation,” said Jason Scales, chief operating officer at SkillsUSA. “This collaboration exemplifies the power of partnership, benefitting all involved and making progress toward closing the skilled workers gap.”