Schools are in session, and they're reporting a resurgence of interest in industrial arts programs. Unfortunately, “shop”-type classes have been eliminated from many schools, and there aren't enough teachers for the classes that do exist. That's largely because many states have rigid certification requirements that suppress the teaching pool. Teaching's relatively modest pay is also believed to deter many people from leaving the skilled trades.
Retired remodelers — and others who just want to give back — are trying to close the gap. If you're curious about teaching, even on a part-time basis, try calling a nearby school and expressing your interest, suggests Domenic Giandomenico, of the National Association of State Directors of Career Technical Education (www.careertech.org). Ask to talk to the principal or the department head to start the process, he says. Many remodelers also volunteer with Skills USA (www.skillsusa.org) to inspire the future workforce.
