Boston’s next generation of construction professionals are about to get a head start. Boys & Girls Clubs of Boston (BGCB) is partnering with the Rising Stars Program, a nonprofit working to close the skilled labor gap, to launch Trade Trailblazers, an eight-week summer experience that connects teens to rewarding, in-demand careers in the skilled trades. 

What is Trade Trailblazers? 

Beginning in summer 2026, Trade Trailblazers will give members ages 17–18 an immersive look into the world of skilled trades. This isn’t your average career exploration program. It’s a hands-on, career-building experience that helps teens gain practical skills, industry certifications, and professional confidence before they even graduate high school. 

Participants will have the opportunity to: 

  • Explore four to six different union trades. 
  • Get hands-on technical training and real-world experience. 
  • Earn essential safety certifications. 
  • Develop key professional skills through career readiness workshops. 
  • Select two trades for deeper exploration, building a solid foundation for a long-term career. 
  • Gain confidence and benefit from crucial professional mentorship. 

“This new partnership is all about opening more doors for young people,” said David Hutchinson, Executive Director of the Rising Stars Program. “By teaming up with organizations like BGCB that share our vision, we can provide students with real opportunities to build meaningful careers and help industries find the skilled workforce they need for the future.” 

Strengthening Boston’s Workforce Readiness Pipeline 

For BGCB, Trade Trailblazers is the next step in expanding its workforce readiness pipeline, a core part of the strategic plan that connects academic learning to real-world opportunity. The program aligns with BGCB’s mission to help teens not only secure jobs, but discover long-term careers that offer stability, purpose, and pride. 

“Trade Trailblazers is about creating access and confidence,” said Andrea Swain, Chief Impact Officer at BGCB. “When teens can see and experience what’s possible in the trades, they begin to envision futures filled with stability, purpose, and pride. This partnership expands our ability to prepare young people for the workforce Boston needs while giving them the tools and relationships that help them thrive.” 

Boston’s construction and trade industries face a widening gap between demand and available talent. By engaging teens early, Trade Trailblazers helps close that gap and ensures the next generation of skilled workers reflects the diversity and promise of the city itself. 

From mentorship and training to paid internships and certification, Trade Trailblazers is more than a summer program. It’s a launchpad for Boston’s future workforce. 

Learn more about BGCB’s Workforce Readiness initiatives.