October 2026 - Published in: 2026 Fall Newsletter - Main Street Community Foundation (MSCF) recently collaborated with several other state and local funders to help launch a brand-new program at Plainville High School. The Trades Academy is a four-year program designed to prepare students for successful careers in the skilled trades and debuted this fall. The program will provide students with a hands-on, career-focused educational experience beginning as early as freshman year in trades such as carpentry, electrical, and HVACR.

Students in the program will explore these trades and develop foundational skills in tool-use, safety, and problem solving. Additionally, they will gain experience in OSHA safety, construction math, blueprint reading, and other applicable practical skills, all through the nationally-accredited NCCER (National Center for Construction Education and Research) curriculum. Students that complete the program will graduate with nationally-recognized industry credentials.

There is a great need for skilled trade professionals in the region. With the help of MSCF, the State of CT, Farmington Bank Community Foundation, the Petit Family Foundation, the Community Foundation of Greater New Britain, and the American Savings Bank Foundation, Plainville High School will now be able to play a critical role in meeting this need.

Susan Sadecki, MSCF President & CEO stated, “There are many ways to approach the workforce shortage. As local philanthropic funders, we have a shared commitment and belief that this academy will prepare students for high demand careers in fields that are essential to our local community and beyond.”