The U.S. faces 20 job openings for every one new tradesperson entering the workforce, a skills gap that is playing out in communities in every state. At the same time, hundreds of thousands of veterans and military spouses leave service each year with discipline, adaptability, and work ethic the trades demand, but without a clear pathway in.

Nonprofit, industry, and national leaders are setting out to change that, and it's working. The Skilled Trades Academy, powered by Lowe's Foundation and Hiring Our Heroes, has placed more than 88% of graduates into employment within three months of completion.

Join us on May 14 on Capitol Hill as we celebrate Lowe’s Foundation’s continued commitment to the military community and the skilled trades and share a major announcement on what comes next: scaling a proven workforce model to meet this moment. 

Thursday, May 14, 2026
10 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Arrival & check-in begins at 9:30 a.m. Program to start at 10:00 a.m. Light refreshments will be available.
Dress: Business attire

Location
Speaker Nancy Pelosi Caucus Room - Cannon 390
Cannon House Office Building
27 Independence Ave SE
Washington, D.C. 20003

Attendees may use any of the public entrances at the Cannon House Office Building, including the Northwest and Southwest entrances. The primary entrance is located on C Street SE, West of the First Street intersection. An additional access point, often used for accessibility, is situated on New Jersey Avenue SE, near Independence Avenue.

Once inside, guests will proceed through security and make their way up to the Third Floor. 

Map of Capitol Hill