Empowering the Next Generation of Skilled Tradespeople
Skills & Art in Woodworking (S.A.W.) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to providing free hands-on training in woodworking and carpentry to youth in Prince George’s County, MD. Through education, mentorship, and direct industry connections, we prepare young individuals for careers in the skilled trades—fields that are in high demand and offer stable, well-paying job opportunities.
We believe that everyone deserves access to vocational education that builds confidence, promotes self-sufficiency, and creates pathways toward lifelong success.
What We Do
At S.A.W., we provide:
✔ Hands-on Training: Using the nationally recognized HBI PACT curriculum, students learn essential carpentry skills, worksite safety, and industry best practices.
✔ Free Enrollment for PG County Youth: Ensuring that financial barriers do not prevent access to vocational education.
✔ Career Pathway Development: Connecting students with local trade employers, apprenticeship programs, and industry mentors.
✔ Community Engagement: Offering open workshop memberships for continued skill development and fundraising support.
Through our structured courses, mentorship, and real-world project experience, students graduate with the HBI PACT certification, equipping them with the qualifications and confidence to enter the workforce or pursue further training.
The skilled trades industry is facing a nationwide shortage of carpenters and tradespeople, with more jobs available than qualified workers. Meanwhile, many young adults struggle with employment due to a lack of vocational training opportunities.
🔹 High school graduation rates in Prince George’s County show that not all students pursue higher education, leaving a gap in career readiness.
🔹 Many local vocational programs are costly or have limited availability, making them inaccessible to underserved communities.
🔹 Construction and carpentry jobs offer strong wages, stability, and career advancement, yet many remain unfilled due to a lack of trained workers.
S.A.W. bridges this gap by providing a cost-free, hands-on education that directly connects students with career opportunities, benefiting both young adults and the skilled labor market.
Why S.A.W. Matters
Contact us
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