Channellock Launches Online Trade Worker Training Program

Across the nation, 45 states have closed schools to help stem the spread of COVID-19, affecting more than 52 million students. As schools turn to distance learning, students in trade programs without access to their school workshop now have a new tool at their fingertips. CHANNELLOCK^® is sponsoring two new online platforms for trade school students, including a weekly how-to video series, along with a suite of digital leadership programs.

The nine-week “Trading Knowledge” video series launched April 14 and will feature a new how-to video each week. Students will get firsthand knowledge from welding, HVAC and plumbing pros who will be performing practical demonstrations and offering tips and tricks. Master welder Josh Welton, HVAC specialist Rocky Hyatt and master plumber Ryan Gomiela will also share their experience on what it’s like to be on the job and their passion for their career. The videos are available on Channellock’s Facebook, Instagram and YouTube pages.

“With much of the country on lockdown due to the global pandemic, one thing has become clear to every American: skilled tradespeople are essential to keep our country moving forward,” says Welton, who hosts the first video in the series about setting up and maintaining a MIG welder, along with how to use welding pliers. “As most schools have moved to online training, it’s important that shop class and vocational students stay ahead of the curve. We want to give them the tools to stay sharp.”

“Trade students may fall behind in their studies during these unprecedented times,” says Ryan DeArment, vice president of sales and marketing for Channellock Inc. “We want to help students stay on track with their education, and the goal of our “Trading Knowledge” series is to contribute to furthering their learning as they take classes online.”

CHANNELLOCK is also partnering with SkillsUSA to offer teachers and students free access to SkillsUSA’s Career Essentials curricula. Career Essentials provides online educational resources to help students develop leadership, communication, teamwork and many more career-ready skills. The program is open to current and future trades students at middle and high schools across the U.S.

“We want to help narrow the skills gap in our country and providing students additional opportunities during this time is critical as they find new ways to study their chosen trade,” DeArment says. “We want students to know that CHANNELLOCK has their back.”