Excerpted from SpectrumNews1.com
From drywall to painting and woodworking, a program in Louisville is introducing young men to different trades.
Joshua Toomer is a program director for The ACE Project’s Men in the Making program. The program introduces trade professions to young men in middle and high school.
“I think there is a need for tradesmen and tradespeople. And so, just getting them introduced to it and the other things that help you to be successful,” said Toomer.
Toomer is also a career teacher at Central High School. He said many students are ready for school, to get certified, but lack interpersonal skills.
“Integrity, being on task, showing up on time, doing things the right way the first time,” said Toomer.
The program is part of The ACE Project, which stands for All Children Excelling. ACE provides resources for youth and families affected by gun violence.
Deavyn Mudd participated in the program in the summer of 2024. Mudd said he has always been interested in trade work.
“Stuff in the field of electrician. I always thought about doing stuff like this. I thought this would be a good start to help me get there,” said Mudd.
Students in the program have created patio chairs, benches, tables, and more. Mudd’s proudest moment was building a shed.
“I had to do a whole wall by myself. It was kind of fun,” said Mudd.
The multi-week program runs twice a year, once in the spring and once in the summer.
“It gives them an opportunity to actually see something from start to finish. They take 11 two by fours and make some outdoor furniture with it, and it’s something that just clicks for them to actually see the result of their work,” said Toomer.
Toomer said students also made cornhole boards to sell. The money will go back into the program.
There is a waiting list for the Men in the Making program. The ACE Project is looking to expand the program, making it available all year long.
To watch the original segment on Spectrum News, visit their website HERE.
