Google and Ford Launch Skilled Trades Workforce Initiative
In July 2026, Google, Ford, Carhartt, and BlackRock announced a new partnership called the Alliance for America's Skilled Trades. The initiative aims to expand access to vocational training programs in critical industries such as infrastructure, energy, and manufacturing. According to JLL research cited by the companies, there could be over 2.1 million unfilled skilled trade positions by 2030 due to a shortage of qualified workers. BlackRock noted that employment growth for these roles is expected to outpace national averages through 2034. McKinsey & Company also highlighted rising investment needs in infrastructure and changing workforce dynamics. The alliance plans to work with training organizations like Jobs for the Future and Burning Glass Institute, aiming to create clear pathways into skilled trades careers across 30 states. The group hopes to scale apprenticeships and pre-apprenticeship programs while addressing labor shortages that could cost up to $1 trillion annually in economic losses.