Building Tomorrow’s Workforce, Today

At the Medix Foundation our mission is clear: to tackle the labor shortage in the commercial trades by fostering a skilled workforce through innovative solutions and real-world, hands-on experience. Using a unique mentoring system, we’ve set out to promote education in the commercial trades, close the labor gap, and challenge the stigma around trade professions.

Our Partners:
Driving Change Together

The Medix Foundation is proud to collaborate with industry leaders and organizations committed to addressing the skilled labor shortage. Our partners play a critical role in providing mentorship and on-the-job training opportunities. Together, we’re shaping a new generation of skilled professionals.

The Trade Gap in Numbers

In today’s dynamic economic landscape, the commercial trades sector faces an unprecedented labor shortage. As demand for skilled tradesmen soars, businesses across nearly every industry are grappling with a diminishing workforce.

1 million

the shortage of skilled trades workers by 2030

550,000

the shortage of plumbers
by 2027

450,000

the shortage of workers in the construction industry by 2025

83%

of construction and trade job businesses are short on workers

80%

of all general contractors need help filling some or all positions.

72%

of general contractors are concerned about an insufficient workforce

70%

 of electrical contractors say the industry is facing an electrician shortage

60%

of HVAC businesses struggle to find adequately trained technicians

The Labor Shortage
Amplification Effect

The commercial trades are the backbone of modern infrastructure, 
supporting essential industries like construction, energy, and 
manufacturing. These skilled professionals are responsible for building and maintaining the systems that keep communities functioning — making them vital to preservation and growth of our nation’s infrastructure, our economy, and our daily lives.
However, the shortage of skilled workers creates a ripple effect that threatens the stability and growth of nearly every sector across the country. With fewer qualified workers available to meet rising demand, projects are delayed, costs increase, and businesses struggle to keep up with market growth. This shortage also stifles innovation and infrastructure development, slowing economic expansion in industries dependent on skilled labor.
And as the aging workforce retires, the gap widens, placing even more strain on the system and posing long-term challenges to economic stability. Addressing this issue is essential to maintaining critical infrastructure and driving future economic development.
Impact of labor shortage in commercial trades on infrastructure and economy

An Innovative Approach to Close the Gap

Traditional methods alone aren’t enough to keep pace with the gap created by the rapid growth on construction and the shrinking labor force in the commercial trades sector. That’s why we’ve pioneered a multi- faceted approach designed to properly prepare people for success.
Paid, Hands-On
Training

We provide immersive, practical training programs that equip individuals with the real-world skills they need 
to excel in their trades. By partnering experienced service providers
around the country, we provide hands-on paid experience across all
the major commercial trades.

Cutting-Edge
Technology

Using the latest advancements in 
technology and advanced AI algorithms, we match aspiring tradesmen and tradeswomen with the ideal mentor based on their 
interests and geography, as well as communication and learning styles.

Business Skills
Development

Unlike most programs, the Medix Foundation goes beyond teaching specific trade skills. We equip future tradesmen and women with essential business skills, giving them the tools to not just excel in their trade, but in business as well.

Community Engagement and Partnerships

We actively collaborate with businesses and trade organizations to build a robust support network. This approach helps us to create 
opportunities for apprenticeships, job placements, and ongoing 
career development, ensuring those who complete our program 
transition smoothly into the workforce.

“The growing shortage of skilled trade professionals presents a critical challenge that will affect all industries, the economy, our infrastructure, & society. I approach this issue with an all-encompassing, holistic viewpoint, aiming to invert the negative stigma surrounding the trades profession. By educating this upcoming generation on the economic potential within the aforementioned fields, we can address this upcoming challenge and ensure that the preservation and development of our infrastructure trends on a upward trajectory.”

Vince Kiel, Founder & CEO of the Medix Foundation
Vince Kiel, founder of the Medix Foundation and leader in commercial trades

Meet Vince Kiel: Founder of the Medix Foundation

Vince Kiel, a serial entrepreneur and pioneer in the commercial trades industry, has positioned himself as a leader with an extensive portfolio of companies spanning facility management, construction, and residential and commercial real estate. His transformative journey from a grassroots origin to industry trailblazer reflects his unparalleled dedication to revolutionizing the landscape of the sector over a career that spans more than a decade.

Embracing an unconventional path early in his career, Vince opted for hands-on experience over traditional higher education. He founded his first company at just 15 years old, laying the foundation for what would become a successful career that now encompasses over 30 organizations.

News & Insights

Closing the Skills Gap: Prioritizing Trades is Essential for Future-Proofing the Workforce

In today’s rapidly evolving economy, the demand for skilled workers in the commercial trades has never been more pronounced. From construction and plumbing to electrical work and HVAC systems, these industries form the backbone of infrastructure development and maintenance across the United States. In 2023, the construction industry alone contributed approximately 4.4% to the U.S. GDP, amounting to nearly $1.2 trillion. This massive economic role underscores the importance of a skilled trade workforce capable of

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Non-Traditional Pathways in Education and Their Role in Closing the Workforce Gap

Today’s evolving job market demands flexible, skills-based education that transcends traditional degrees. Nontraditional pathways like apprenticeships, vocational training, and online certifications not only equip individuals with job-ready skills but also expand access and encourage workforce inclusivity. A nontraditional education pathway breaks from conventional degree programs and emphasizing flexibility, skill application, and accessibility. These pathways, such as apprenticeships, boot camps, and online certifications, ..

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Harnessing Experiential Education for to Enhance Adaptability and Problem-Solving Skills

In today’s rapidly evolving world, the landscape of education is shifting towards preparing students not just for knowledge retention, but for adaptability, creativity, and leadership in dynamic environments. Experiential learning emerges as a beacon of innovation, offering profound benefits that transcend traditional classroom settings. By immersing learners in hands-on, real-world experiences, experiential learning catalyzes personal growth and equips individuals with the skills needed to thrive in the complexities of the modern era.

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Get in touch

Together, we can build a stronger, more resilient workforce for the future of commercial trades. For more information on how to support our mission or to get involved, contact us today.