students posing with tools

We’re excited to be recognized as a DEWALT Grow the Trades Grant recipient for our efforts to invest in new tools and equipment to enhance select Polaris skilled trades programs.

With an estimated 10 million global manufacturing jobs currently unfilled, DEWALT’s Grow the Trades Grants aim to help close the skilled labor gap by supporting nonprofit organizations that are skilling, reskilling and upskilling tradespeople. Each year, the program awards funding and tool donations as part of a larger $30 million commitment over five years. 

“We're excited to be recipients of the prestigious DEWALT Grow the Trades Grant. This amazing opportunity will profoundly impact the futures of countless students pursuing careers in the skilled trades. Thanks to this grant, students enrolled in our high school Automotive Technology, Building Services & Ground Maintenance, Construction Trades, HVAC/R, and Welding Technology programs will have access to state-of-the-art tools. This investment will not only enhance their educational experience but also equip them with the tools they need to succeed in their chosen professions,” said Bill Evans, Polaris High School Principal.

Polaris was selected as one of 70 organizations that are projected to skill and reskill more than 55,000 people in 2024 with DEWALT’s support. The grant will provide vital tools to 125 students enrolled in five Polaris programs. “DEWALT is immensely proud to support Polaris Career Center as they work to train the tradespeople of tomorrow moving us closer to our shared goal of closing the trade skills gap,” said Frank Mannarino, President, Power Tools Group, Stanley Black & Decker. “Funding educational programs and nonprofits like those at Polaris connects more people to training, resources and opportunities that will lead to successful careers in the trades.”

This is an AMAZING opportunity for our students. Thank you, DEWALT, for this generous award!