Building Tomorrow's Workforce with SkillsUSA

State directors at IRE 2026 highlight how SkillsUSA is building the next generation of skilled trade professionals—from roofing to welding—and why contractors should take notice.

At IRE 2026, Tanja Kern, strategic content editor with Roofing Contractor, sat down with three state directors from SkillsUSA to discuss how the national organization is shaping the future of the skilled trades—and why contractors should get involved.

Harold (Hal) Casey, state director for SkillsUSA Maine for more than 20 years; Kelley Baker, state director for Indiana with 13 years of experience; and Chuck Young, Oregon’s state director and a former SkillsUSA student and national officer, shared their perspectives on the organization’s impact. Young, who also spent 18 years as a teacher, represents the full-circle journey SkillsUSA can provide.

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SkillsUSA Connects Contractors to Talent

At IRE 2026, three state directors from SkillsUSA discussed how the organization prepares students for careers in skilled trades like roofing, welding, and carpentry. They emphasized that contractors can strengthen their workforce pipeline by partnering with SkillsUSA to access motivated, trained students ready for both field and support roles.

SkillsUSA serves students across a range of trade disciplines, from roofing and welding to machining and carpentry. According to the directors, the organization acts as a starting point for students entering the workforce, creating a direct pipeline for employers seeking skilled, motivated workers. Beyond technical training, SkillsUSA also develops leadership skills, even bringing students to Capitol Hill to advocate for career and technical education.

For contractors, the message is clear: if workforce development is a priority, SkillsUSA offers access to future employees ready to contribute—not only in field roles like roofing, but also in essential support positions within a business. Contractors interested in connecting with students are encouraged to reach out to their state directors through skillsusa.org to begin building that workforce pipeline.

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Tanja Kern is director of content strategy and managing editor for Roofing Contractor. She covers economic trends and the intersection of architecture, design, and construction, focusing on the forces reshaping the industry. She develops and amplifies content that connects roofing professionals with the intelligence they need to compete and grow.

With more than 20 years of experience, Tanja has written for national business, consumer and trade publications. She holds a Master of Science in magazine publishing from Northwestern University's Medill School of Journalism.