The Lowe’s Foundation announced Thursday nearly $9 million in Gable Grants to 15 nonprofits on the front lines of a growing skilled trades workforce movement. The Latino Academy of Workforce Development, based here in Madison, was one of the non-profits chosen.
The Latino Academy will receive $300,000, which will be distributed between 2025-2027, to support student cohorts through a bilingual trades program with safety certifications, blueprint reading, and financial education. The Latino Academy is the only Wisconsin organization to receive a grant for its workforce development programs.
“The Lowe’s Foundation grant is an investment in our community’s future. By leveraging strong partnerships in the construction industry along with the expertise of LAWD in delivering workforce training, it will have a lasting impact for generations to come,” said Saul Castillo, director of outreach and equity at the Wisconsin Laborers’ Apprenticeship and Training Fund.
The Lowe’s Foundation’s Gable Grants are aimed to educate and advocate for the next generation of skilled trades workers. It looks at the potential for career opportunities and the recent wage increases in the trades. Over the past 12 months, hourly earnings have risen by 4.4% for construction trades, according to Associated Builders and Contractors.
The Latino Academy is in high spirits after it received the news. It hopes that the funds gained will help bridge more opportunities as it bolsters efforts for its trades and bilingual programming.
“This partnership and grant will have a significant impact on the work we do and the communities we serve,” said Nydia Martinez, executive director of the Latino Academy.
