Missing: 6.5 Million Workers
The skilled trades are the backbone of the American workforce, yet the talent shortage continues to grow. We are committed to reversing that trend through open, transparent conversations and Caliber's Technician Apprentice Program (TAP) — a proven, scalable system for developing the technicians our industry needs.
Over 6.5 million skilled trades jobs may be open by 2030, across the 5 pillars of the American economy:
- Manufacturing - 2.1 million (The Manufacturing Institute)
- Construction - 1.9 million (Associated Builders and Contractors)
- Healthcare - 1.2 million (Bureau of Labor Statistics)
- Energy - 1.1 million (International Energy Agency)
- Transportation - 292, 000 (TechForce Foundation/American Trucking Association)
Nearly half of today’s workforce is over 45, while fewer than 12% are under 25 (PeopleReady). As experienced workers retire, too few are replacing them. And it is driving longer wait times, higher costs, and more strain on those still doing the work.
This skilled trades shortage affects entire communities and spans industries. As the conversation continues, we’ll share what we’re seeing—real stories, real progress, and reasons for hope—not because we have everything figured out, but because the future of the skilled trades really is in all of our hands.
Local Impact, National Relevance
Build What’s Next
At Caliber, careers take shape without the traditional path—through hands-on apprenticeships that empower people to earn, learn, and grow. With thousands of graduates already strengthening communities and the workforce, we’re sharing how this movement is shaping the future of skilled trades across America.
Back to What Builds America
Skilled trades are the foundation of our economy—and they start with people. At Caliber, apprenticeships are creating real opportunity, strengthening communities, and showing leaders firsthand why investing in hands-on careers is essential to America’s future.
Earn More. Owe Less.
Prosperity shouldn’t start with debt. At Caliber, apprenticeships offer a different path—one where you earn while you learn, build real skills, and move closer to financial stability from day one.
Leaders Who Started Here
From Shop Floor to Leadership
Todd Dillender’s journey—from apprentice to COO—shows what’s possible in the skilled trades. It’s a path built on dedication, growth, and opportunity, where hands-on careers can lead to leadership and lasting impact.
Rising Together
Kevin’s journey—from detailer to General Manager—shows how hard work, growth, and opportunity can elevate not just one career, but an entire team. At Caliber, when one rises, we all do.
Where Leaders Begin
Mike’s journey from sweeping floors to General Manager proves that true leadership is built, not hired. In the skilled trades, the strongest leaders are shaped through hard work, hands-on experience, and a commitment to people.
The Meaning of Mentor
Guided to Greatness
For Jesus, mentorship is more than teaching—it’s shaping confidence, purpose, and pride. By guiding apprentices every step of the way, he’s helping build not just skills, but stronger futures.
Opportunity Finds a Way
Sometimes the right opportunity doesn’t look the way you expect. For Mike, mentorship began with an unexpected connection—one that turned potential into progress and set the stage for growth.
Lifting Others Higher
Nicole’s journey to Regional Manager is defined not just by her success, but by her commitment to others. By creating space for growth and opportunity, she’s helping the next generation rise alongside her.
Aspiring Apprentices
Say Yes to What’s Next
Jose's journey from washing cars to becoming an Auto Body Technician shows how opportunity can change everything. With the right support, he gained skills, confidence, and the ability to say yes—to growth, to family, and to his future.
A New Mission. A New Path.
After military service, Cody found a new direction through Caliber’s Changing Lanes program. His journey from apprentice to General Manager shows how the right support and skills can turn life’s transitions into powerful new beginnings.
Confidence Through Every Step
Danielle’s journey shows how repetition, support, and mentorship can build lasting confidence. Through Caliber’s Changing Lanes program, she found not just a new career—but a new community to grow with.
Training for Tomorrow
The Workforce Is Evolving
As technology and materials advance, the collision repair workforce is changing fast. Hear from Caliber’s Chief People Officer, Dave Dart, on how the industry is adapting—and what it means for the future of skilled talent.
Driving the Future of Collision Repair
As vehicles grow more complex, the collision repair industry must evolve. Hear from Caliber’s Chief Commercial Officer, Hami Ebrahimi, on why ongoing education, advanced technology, and closing the ADAS knowledge gap are critical to what’s next.
Precision Matters More Than Ever
ADAS is transforming every step of the repair process. Hear from Caliber’s VP of Marketing, Jamie Shackelford, on how tighter tolerances, OEM standards, and precision refinishing are critical to keeping today’s advanced systems performing safely and correctly.
Technician Apprentice Program (TAP)
At Caliber, we believe apprenticeships are a modern, scalable solution that create economic mobility. This why we created TAP: our free program provides hands-on, paid auto body technician training with an experienced technician mentor in a live Caliber center setting. Discover a purpose-driven career and a different pathway to prosperity with TAP.
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