The days of a father passing down his tools to ensure that the family plumbing business continued for another generation are rapidly disappearing. This trend is having an impact on our lives in ways that we didn’t expect.

According to ManPowerGroup, Inc., a Talent Shortage Survey was conducted in 2012. “skilled trades”These are the hardest jobs you can fill. The Baby Boomers are retiring, which means more skilled workers will be available. But, there isn’t enough. skilled tradesmenReady to meet the increasing demand. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics more than half of skilled tradesmen have reached 50. There is only one skilled worker available for every three retired tradesmen.

It’s becoming harder and harder for skilled tradesmen to find work. Who will fix the AC on a 100-degree day? Or re-shingle the roof after Mother Nature has damaged it? America needs a wakeup call.

Skilled tradesmen play an important role in society. It’s high time that we acknowledge their contributions. IRWIN Tools created National Tradesmen’s Day in 2011. It is a day to recognize America’s true working hands and thank those tradesmen who make our lives better every day. Every professional tradesman, whether they are an auto mechanic or roofer, electrician, plumber, welder or bricklayer — deserves our appreciation. These are the men and woman who built America and kept it running strong.

National Tradesmen Day allows you to take a moment to reflect on the many entrepreneurial and business ownership possibilities that a career as skilled worker can provide your grandchildren or children.

To learn more about the courses and certifications for skilled trades, visit your local college with your child. National Tradesmen Day is a day to honor and recognize our country’s skilled tradesmen. You can also talk to your children about the many benefits of working with your hands to make a living. Let’s show tradesmen that we appreciate their hard work and the positive contributions they make every day to our communities. Tradesmen are America’s real workers, and their work is what makes our lives worthwhile.

Visit www.tradesmenday.com for more information on how to thank tradesmen. www.nationaltradesmenday.com.