Nearly 1,000 construction tools are now in the hands of students at Southeast Career and Technical Academy (SECTA), thanks to a donation effort led by Nigro Construction as part of Careers in Construction Month. The Tools for Trades community drive collected drills, measuring tools, safety gear, hand tools, and more than $800 in monetary donations, exceeding expectations and helping equip the next generation of Southern Nevada’s skilled workforce.
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Local businesses, tradespeople, and community members contributed to the drive—showing that investment in students also means investment in the future of Nevada’s construction industry.
“This is what community looks like — people coming together to build opportunity,” said Cory Frank, Vice President at Nigro Construction. “Workforce needs are changing, and we need to meet that challenge by supporting the students who will carry this industry forward. Giving them the tools, resources, and encouragement to learn their craft today means building a stronger future for all of us.”
The donated tools will be used directly in SECTA’s construction programs, giving students hands-on experience that prepares them for real jobs in the field. Educators say donations like these not only improve technical training but also validate student career choices.
“Support like this reminds our students that they are seen, valued, and supported,” said Lucas Inman, construction technology instructor at SECTA. “The Tools for Trades drive is a message that our community believes in their potential and is ready to invest in their success.”
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Nevada’s construction employers continue to face a shortage of skilled workers, even as development projects in Las Vegas expand in commercial building, hospitality, infrastructure, and data center construction. Industry leaders say partnerships between schools and contractors are essential to closing that labor gap.
Programs like Tools for Trades offer more than equipment—they create teaching moments that help students learn tool use, jobsite safety, teamwork, troubleshooting, and leadership. These skills align directly with industry expectations and apprenticeship requirements, helping students transition more seamlessly into the workforce.
Educators note that many families cannot afford high-quality tools needed for trades classes, meaning school programs must rely on limited budgets. Donations from private companies fill that gap and expand access for students who want to pursue construction as a career.
With continued community partnerships, SECTA students will enter the workforce with better preparation, a sense of belonging in the industry, and practical knowledge that gives them an advantage on jobsites.
As demand grows, more companies may soon follow Nigro’s example by launching similar donation drives, mentorship efforts, job shadowing opportunities, and apprenticeship pipeline relationships.
Originally reported by Nigro Construction in Nevada Business.
