Empowering Tomorrow’s Workforce, Building Character Today

At Craftsman with Character®, our mission is clear: we are building an industrial workforce of young people who live and work with purpose and character.

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A Semester-Long High School Program Connecting Students with Skilled Trades and Character-Building Experiences

Craftsman with Character® (CWC) is an innovative, semester-long workforce development course for high school students that prepares them for fulfilling careers in skilled trades while instilling values that support success in both work and life. Founded in 2013 by Dave Hataj of Edgerton Gear, CWC provides a structured model and curriculum that enable schools and local businesses to partner and deliver meaningful job shadowing experiences, character-building education, and mentoring within their community.

Through daily 90-minute sessions, students engage in hands-on activities, gain insights into industry practices, and build lasting relationships with mentors across various trades. For students, CWC opens doors to a future of purpose and career readiness; for businesses, it creates a pipeline of dedicated, prepared young professionals. By strengthening the workforce, CWC empowers communities, fostering economic growth and a shared commitment to building a better future.

Why “Craftsman”?

At Craftsman with Character®, we thoughtfully chose the word "craftsman" to represent the essence of our mission. While "craftsman" has historically been associated with a specific gender, we believe that the word transcends gender to embody a standard of excellence and dedication in any craft. By using "craftsman," we aim to be inclusive, recognizing the skill, precision, and artistry that all individuals bring to their chosen fields, regardless of gender.

A craftsman is someone deeply skilled in their field, dedicated to refining their craft through years of training and experience. Whether in woodworking, metalworking, pottery, textiles, or any other specialized area, a craftsman possesses a profound understanding of the materials, tools, and techniques essential to their craft. They excel at transforming raw materials into objects of beauty, functionality, or artistry, paying meticulous attention to detail. A craftsman takes immense pride in their work, prioritizing quality and craftsmanship above all else. Whether creating unique, handcrafted pieces or preserving traditional techniques through restoration, a true craftsman’s commitment and passion are evident in their exceptional skill and artistry, making them an invaluable contributor to the world of craftsmanship.

In choosing "craftsman," we honor the tradition of excellence while embracing the diversity of talents and voices that contribute to the world of craftsmanship. We believe that anyone who embodies these values and skills is, indeed, a craftsman.

Real Stories from Students: The CWC Impact

Building a Stronger Workforce for National Defense

The U.S. Navy is on a mission to expand its nuclear-powered submarine fleet, a critical element of national defense. Central to this mission is the Submarine Industrial Base (SIB), a network of skilled tradespeople and suppliers essential for submarine construction. To meet its goals, the SIB needs over 100,000 additional skilled workers and the support of thousands of U.S. suppliers. The SIB sponsors CWC as a strategic partner in developing this workforce to strengthen our defense capabilities. Learn more.