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Construction Pro Joel Ney: Hands-On Skills Build Confidence for Life

Joel Ney, construction pro, urges families and schools to teach kids hands-on skills like using tools and basic repairs. He says it builds confidence and problem-solving, even for non-trades careers. Read more.

This news matters because it highlights a growing gap in practical knowledge that affects everyone. As fewer young people learn basic tool use and maintenance, they lose the confidence to handle everyday problems, from a loose cabinet hinge to a worn bike part. Ney's push to revive hands-on learning isn't about creating a nation of contractors; it's about fostering self-reliance and problem-solving. Meanwhile, the construction industry faces a projected shortage of 349,000 workers in 2026 alone, according to Associated Builders and Contractors. Early exposure to skilled work can spark interest in trades careers, helping fill that gap. Even for those who choose other paths, understanding how things work makes them more capable homeowners, neighbors, and citizens. In a world increasingly reliant on screens, Ney's call to pick up a tape measure is a reminder that some of the most valuable lessons are still learned by doing.