West Orange Students Learn Plumbing Repair Skills At Their High School

WEST ORANGE, NJ — They were plumb excited to get some hands-on experience, administrators say.

Plumbing is now being taught in the Home Maintenance course at West Orange High School. This year – the inaugural effort at WOHS – included participation from nearly 170 students.

The district recently got a boost from a $25,000 grant from Ferguson Enterprises, one of the largest distributors of plumbing, HVAC, waterworks and industrial products in North America.

In partnership with Explore The Trades, Ferguson Enterprises provided equipment, tools and materials in an effort to train the next generation of skilled trade professionals – and expose students to successful job options. Some of the money went to create a new “skills lab” for local teens interested in a plumbing career.

“We’re seeing a pivotal moment for the skilled trades,” said Melissa Hazelwood, director of social impact at Ferguson.

“More young people — especially Gen Z — are recognizing the advantages of a career in trades, from economic stability to long-term growth,” Hazelwood said. “With this momentum building and an urgent need to address the industry’s labor shortage, the time is now to invest in the next generation.”

Max Grossman, the home maintenance instructor at WOHS, said educators were thrilled to receive the grant.

“With the new skills lab, students will have the opportunity to develop their skills through hands-on training with industry-standard equipment,” Grossman said. “I hope this experience will ignite their passion and excitement for exploring various trade programs.”

In addition to the $25,000 Explore the Trades grant, the Technology and Engineering Department at WOHS has received more than $60,000 in grant awards over the past five years.

• Related: NJ Trade School Says Demand For Welders Is Red Hot
• Related: Sparks Of Inspiration: Essex County Teens Learn About Trade Careers
• Related: Woman Follows Dad’s Footsteps After Training At NJ Auto Repair School

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