Google.org’s new commitment will support the United Association’s International Training Fund, in partnership with MCAA, as part of a national effort to strengthen skilled trades training and expand career pathways.

MCAA is pleased to be part of a major national workforce development effort announced by Google.org to help prepare more than 300,000 American workers for high-demand skilled trades careers across more than 20 states.

Through a $50 million commitment from Google.org, funding will support 14 labor unions and four trade and contractor associations that are helping workers gain the advanced skills and credentials needed to build, maintain and upgrade essential infrastructure. The initiative recognizes the critical role of skilled tradespeople — including plumbers, pipefitters, welders, HVACR technicians, electricians, sheet metal workers and others — in supporting the country’s growing infrastructure needs.

As part of the initiative, the United Association’s International Training Fund (ITF), which operates in partnership with MCAA, will develop a five-year roadmap for scaling the plumbing, heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration sectors. The work is designed to help prepare current and future skilled professionals with the training needed to meet demand in communities across the nation.

The investment comes at a time when the skilled trades continue to face significant workforce needs. From advanced cooling systems and data center infrastructure to energy, manufacturing and building systems, contractors and tradespeople are essential to delivering the projects that power economic growth and local communities.

MCAA and the UA have a long-standing commitment to preparing the mechanical industry’s workforce for the future. This support will help strengthen that shared mission by expanding training strategies that respond to evolving technologies, changing project demands and the continued need for highly skilled professionals.

By investing in the training organizations that support America’s skilled trades, Google.org’s initiative reinforces the value of apprenticeship, industry partnerships and modern workforce development. MCAA looks forward to continuing its work with the UA and ITF to help ensure the mechanical contracting industry has the talent and expertise needed to meet the opportunities ahead.