Shop Rat Foundation

Description

The Shop Rat Foundation is a thriving nonprofit based in Jackson, Michigan dedicated to igniting youth interest in manufacturing and skilled trades careers through engaging, hands-on education and outreach. Since its founding in 2004 by a local manufacturing entrepreneur, the organization has grown from serving just 15 students to reaching thousands annually with programs designed to build real skills and spark future career paths.

The Foundation’s signature Shop Rat Education Program blends in-school curriculum, community activities like Manufacturing Day, extra-curricular classes, camps and mobile labs to give students authentic exposure to careers in precision machining, welding, engineering, robotics, computer science and construction trades. These experiences align with local industry needs and help students in grades 3-10 explore practical skills that can lead to high-demand jobs.

Committed to accessibility and partnership, the Shop Rat Foundation collaborates with schools, community groups, industry partners and regional initiatives to remove barriers — financial, cultural and geographic — and bring quality career education to more communities. Its outreach includes robotics programs, virtual career exploration tools and expanding curriculum resources so youth across the region can explore, discover and prepare for tomorrow’s opportunities in the trades.