National Tradesman Day is a holiday observed annually on the third Friday in September. It is designed to honor the men and women who help keep American life running by maintaining all the systems and structures we depend on. This day honors those who repair our roads, maintain our water systems, and ensure the electricity flows. Whether you know these tradespeople by name or not, 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 skilled men and women who work hard to keep the United States running. Since then, people have been celebrating this holiday to show their appreciation for these individuals.

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 and emphasize the importance of tradesmen and the 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 half a million jobs in the U.S. in skilled trades that can’t be filled.
• Only 6% of high school students 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 earned an average of $51,450 per year.
• In 2016, the average electrician earned $52,720 per year.
• It took over 3,400 workers one year and 45 days to build the Empire State Building in 1931.
• The John Hancock Center in Chicago, Illinois, took 2,000 workers four years to build in 1969.
• The Gateway Arch in Saint Louis, Missouri, took two years and eight months to build in 1965.

Observing National Tradesman Day

If you know tradespeople, 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 other tradespeople 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.