This past Saturday, the Shallow Ford Foundation had the chance to support emerging trade professionals in a special way. We presented our first Tools for Trades awards of the season to several graduates of The Do School, a Winston-Salem–based nonprofit that specializes in construction training.

The Do School’s model is intentionally accessible. The program is open to individuals, often adults, working to build new career pathways in construction. Participants come from a variety of backgrounds, and The Do School offers an encouraging, practical route into the trades for those who do not see themselves in a classroom or degree-based program.

Their approach is simple and powerful. The Do School purchases distressed homes and uses those properties as real-world training spaces. Participants learn construction skills by renovating each house alongside experienced professionals. When a home is complete, it is sold, and the proceeds help purchase the next property. The cycle continues—supporting new participants, strengthening neighborhoods, and creating opportunities that ripple outward into the community.

At Saturday’s graduation ceremony, four individuals completing The Do School’s program received full tool sets from the Shallow Ford Foundation. These awards are part of our Tools for Trades program, which was created to address a persistent barrier facing many people entering the skilled trades. The program grew out of an observation by Jeff Vance of Gwyn Services, who recognized that too many talented workers begin their careers without access to the professional-grade tools they need often relying on low-quality equipment or high-interest loans just to get started. Tools for Trades exist to change that, ensuring graduates can begin their careers equipped with quality tools and confidence.

These particular tool sets were made possible through a generous partnership with the Center for the Study of Economic Mobility at Winston-Salem State University, whose funding helped bring this opportunity to The Do School graduates. The collaboration reflects a shared commitment to economic mobility and workforce development, blending WSSU’s research-driven focus with the Shallow Ford Foundation’s experience supporting skilled trades across the region. We are grateful to Craig Richardson of Winston-Salem State University and Bob Sipprell, immediate past chair of the Shallow Ford Foundation Board, whose connections and support helped make this partnership possible.

Later this spring, we will continue awarding tool sets to students completing certifications at Surry Community College, Forsyth Technical Community College, and Davidson-Davie Community College. Whether in a college setting or a community-based training program, these graduates play a vital role in the strength of our region. Skilled trades professionals build, repair, and maintain the infrastructure that keeps our communities moving forward.

The Tools for Trades fund is made possible by community members who believe in the value of the skilled trades and the people who choose these careers. As interest in trade programs continues to grow, so does the need to ensure graduates start out with the tools they require.

You can help expand this impact.
👉 Make a gift today at www.sff.gives/toolsfortrades

‍