Ignacio Duron, CEO of Most Valuable Plumber, is calling for greater emphasis on skilled trades education and mentorship to address a critical workforce shortage. Following a recent spotlight on his career, Duron highlighted the disconnect between career conversations and the practical work required for success in trades like plumbing.
"A lot of people talk about success without talking about the work behind it," Duron said. "Trades show you how effort, patience, and problem-solving come together in real life." His own journey from hands-on plumbing work in North Hollywood to leading a family-run business across Los Angeles County exemplifies this perspective.
The urgency of Duron's message is underscored by data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, which projects more than 500,000 plumbing and construction roles will go unfilled by the end of the decade due to retirements and low entry rates. This shortage coincides with rising infrastructure demands in major cities like Los Angeles, potentially affecting maintenance, construction timelines, and service availability for residents and businesses.
Duron identifies mentorship and realistic career exposure as key solutions. He points to youth sports as an overlooked training ground for workplace skills. Research from the Aspen Institute indicates that young people involved in organized sports are more likely to develop leadership, confidence, and persistence. "Coaching kids taught me that growth takes time," Duron noted. "You don't rush it. You show up, stay consistent, and let people learn through experience."
Rather than advocating solely for formal programs, Duron encourages personal action within communities. He suggests individuals talk openly with youth about hands-on careers, invite them to observe work environments, volunteer as coaches or mentors, and share practical skills at home. "You don't need a big platform to help someone," he said. "Sometimes just showing how real work gets done can change how someone sees their future."
The implications of inaction are significant. A persistent skilled trades gap could lead to increased costs for home repairs and construction projects, delays in infrastructure development, and a loss of stable, well-paying career pathways for future generations. Duron's call emphasizes that addressing this issue requires shifting cultural perceptions about trade careers and investing in grassroots mentorship. "Progress happens when people are willing to pass on what they've learned," Duron concluded. This approach not only aims to fill immediate job vacancies but also to build stronger, more resilient communities by valuing skill, effort, and consistency in career development.
