As we ring in 2025, I’m thrilled to share the progress and vision for Bendix Academy, where we are shaping the next generation of makers, builders, and creators. Over the past five years, we’ve worked tirelessly to pilot our program, refining our curriculum and building a foundation to teach kids toolmanship through mentorship. Our mission is to ignite a passion for skilled trades with hands-on learning to address the escalating national need.

The Challenge: A National Shortage of Skilled Tradespeople

The numbers tell a sobering story:

• A 2023 Associated Builders and Contractors report revealed that the construction industry alone needed to hire over 500,000 skilled workers just to meet demand.¹
• A 2024 study by Deloitte highlighted that by 2030, the U.S. could face a shortage of over 2 million manufacturing jobs due to a lack of skilled tradespeople.²
• Beyond trades, even engineers are reporting gaps in hands-on skills. Employers stress the importance of practical experience alongside theoretical knowledge, and too many young professionals are entering the workforce without these critical abilities.

Above:  Bendix Board 2025

Our Solution

Our goal has always been to bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world skills. The pilot program has been about refining this vision, proving what works, and preparing to scale.

• Expand Enrollment: We plan to double the number of students we serve, providing more opportunities to explore skilled trades and toolmanship.
• Build Industry Partnerships: By collaborating with local businesses, unions, and trade associations, we can create stronger pipelines to employment for our graduates.
• Recruit More Mentors: Skilled tradespeople are the heart of our program. We’re launching campaigns to bring more mentors into the fold, ensuring students have access to the best guidance possible.
• Raise Awareness: Skilled trades are critical to our nation’s infrastructure, economy, and innovation. We’ll be working to shift perceptions and encourage more young people to consider these rewarding careers.

The Future of Bendix Academy

2025 marks an exciting moment for us. With the support of our community, we are poised to grow into a hub where young people can discover their talents, gain hands-on experience, and contribute to solving the skilled trades shortage. Seeing the need and the possibilities for making substantive change, I transitioned in 2024 from being a Bendix Academy board member to the role of Executive and Development Director. I invite you to join Bendix Academy on this journey.

Whether you’re a tradesperson eager to mentor, a parent of a curious student, or a supporter of hands-on education, your involvement can make a difference. Together, we can empower the next generation to meet the demands of tomorrow while reviving the spirit of craftsmanship in our nation. Let’s hammer out a brighter future and build a legacy of skilled, confident, and inspired young people!

Here’s to 2025 and beyond!

Wendy Zielen
wendy@bendixacademy.org

Support Tomorrow's Toolmen TODAY
with as little as $5/month!