National Tradesman Day is a holiday that’s observed annually on the third Friday in September. This is a holiday that’s designed to honor the men and women who help to keep American life running by maintaining all of the systems and structures we depend on. This is a day to honor those people who keep our roads repaired, keep our water systems running, and help keep the electricity flowing. Regardless of whether you know these tradesmen by name or not, you should still take time to thank them for everything they do. 

The History Of National Tradesman Day

This holiday was first created in 2011 by Irwin Tools. They founded this day to honor the men and women who have the skills and put in the hard work to keep the United States running. Ever since then, this is a holiday that people have been celebrating to also show their appreciation to these people. 

Facts About Tradesmen

As we researched this holiday, we came across a wide array of facts about tradesmen. Below are some of the facts that we feel are the most interesting. The following facts emphasize the importance of tradesmen and the actual value of their contributions to society. 

• According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, only one trained person is hired for every three trained people who retire.
• At any given time, there are over a half-million jobs in the U.S in skilled trades that can’t be filled. 
• Only 6% of High School students will consider a job in the trades when they graduate. 
• Most U.S High Schools no longer emphasize the importance of skilled trades through shop classes.
• In 2016, plumbers made $51,450 per year, on average.
• In 2016, the average electrician made $52,720 per year. 
• It took over 3,400 workers 1-year and 45-days to build the Empire State Building in 1931.
• The John Hancock Center in Chicago, Illinois took 2,000 workers 4-years to build in 1969.
• The Gateway Arch in Saint Louis, Missouri took 2-years and 8-months to build in 1965.

Observing National Tradesman Day

If you know tradesmen, then take the time to show these men and women the appreciation they deserve. If you don’t personally know a plumber, electrician, carpenter, or any of the other tradesmen that keep America running, then take the time to thank them on the Internet. This can be done by using the hashtag #NationalTradesmanDay on your social media accounts.