AUSTIN, TX — Austin Metro kids took the first step toward a career in construction by completing the 4th Annual TRF Camp Build event in Austin, Texas. The event, held at the Austin Electrical Training Alliance, introduced middle school girls and boys to skills used in trade fields by engaging in activities such as building storage bins and other projects, while also learning about job opportunities in skilled trades.
The annual week-long event is run by The Rosendin Foundation. Each year, The Rosendin Foundation’s organizers recruit their internal volunteer teams and local trade volunteers to teach students in grades 6 through 8 how to use professional-grade tools to cut and drill wood, bend conduit, run electrical wire, and explore Building Information Modeling (BIM) technology.
"The moment a student learns how to use a new tool for the first time, you see exactly what this program is about," said Rhea Keator, TRF Operations and Communications Manager, The Rosendin Foundation. "Austin’s kids walked away this week with real-life skills, professional-grade tools they can use to continue learning skills, and a clear picture of what a future in the trades can look like. The confidence they built here at the Austin Electrical Training Alliance will stay with them long after this week is over."
TRF Camp Build, held annually in five cities, directly addresses a pressing workforce challenge in Texas. A 2026 report by Bring Back the Trades and F.W. Webb Company projects Texas will have a 30 percent gap rate by 2030, representing an estimated shortage of 162,000 workers.
"Building a strong future workforce starts with showing young people what is possible before they ever enter a job site," said Evan Berns, National Accounts Manager, Milwaukee Tool. "When kids get hands-on experience early, they begin to see a real career path in front of them. Milwaukee Tool sponsors TRF Camp Build because we believe every student deserves the chance to discover the satisfaction of building something, learn to use tools safely, and develop the confidence that can lead them straight into the skilled trades."
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“This is so cool, I’m a pro at this now. Can I be a volunteer next year?” said Hudson Sridhara, Camper at TRF Camp Build Austin.
TRF Camp Build is made possible through the support of Rosendin Electric Inc. and Modular Power Solutions, alongside partners at Milwaukee Tool, DeWalt, and The Swinerton Foundation; as well as sponsors including Border States, Graybar, United Van Rentals, Sherwin Williams, and IBEW Local 520.
