Ahead of WorldSkills Shanghai 2026, the world's premier skilled trades competition, DEWALT, a Stanley Black & Decker brand, surveyed over 500 WorldSkills competitors representing more than 60 countries and regions about the future of skilled careers, workforce readiness and training.
The survey revealed that the next generation of trades professionals recognize their importance and contributions to the global economy, but simultaneously also perceive a disconnect between the importance of their work and the pathways available to enter the field. According to the survey results, 76% of respondents say technical and vocational skills are increasingly important to the global economy, yet 51% believe too few young people are entering the trades. 71% of respondents also noted that while the public image of technical and vocational careers has improved, 52% were still encouraged toward more traditional academic paths, compared to just 14% who were encouraged toward technical and vocational careers.
"The real economy runs on skilled labor - across housing, transportation, manufacturing, energy, and digital infrastructure - and global demand for these professionals continues to rise. As an industry, we have a responsibility not only to celebrate the people who power these essential sectors, but also to invest in creating pathways into the skilled trades," said Chris Nelson, President and Chief Executive Officer of Stanley Black & Decker. "Through DEWALT's Grow the Trades program and partnerships with organizations like WorldSkills, we are working to raise awareness of these rewarding careers and expand access for the next generation of skilled tradespeople."