Build Buddies

Branding | UI Design | Design Research

Alyssa Scott Project Management and Design Research
Joseph Hermon UX Designer
Emma Brown UI Designer

Define the Problem

The trades are facing significant challenges, primarily due to a declining interest among young people. Primary schools in the U.S. heavily emphasize STEM and higher education as the only viable career path, which leaves information about trade careers scarce especially among young age groups. Many students are not exposed to the potential of trade careers until high school, limiting awareness and interest in the fields. Consequently, trade careers have seen a shortage of skilled workers, impacting various industries.

Survey Data

We surveyed 47 parents and teachers to gauge their experiences and opinions in regards to the trades.

Research

Since STEM’s introduction in 2001, schools in the U.S. have prioritized science, technology, engineering, and math over technical trades. By 2013, wood shop classes largely vanished. This focus leads kids as young as 6-11 to see university as the only path, supported by parents who view trades negatively. Schools often overlook trade careers, and while there are some schools that still offer technical classes across the country, they are still rare. The shift in curriculum has influenced cultural values, affecting perceptions within homes and communities.

Our goal is to teach elementary age children about trades in a fun and engaging way in the classroom in order to influence their later career choices, gearing them toward the trades.

Empathy Map

Thinks

“I’m always looking for new ways to make learning fun.”
About meeting state standards for curriculum
I want to make a difference in my student’s life
I want to create a positive and supportive learning environment.

Says

“I’m passionate about helping my students reach their full potential.”
“I’m always looking for new ways to make learning fun.”

Feels

Passionate about teaching
Dedicated to their students’ success
Excited about new challenges and opportunities
Frustrated by bureaucracy and lack of resources
Impatient with students who don’t understand or who lack motivation

Does

Invite trade professionals to share their experiences and insights with students.
Integrate hands-on trade activities into the elementary school curriculum.
Organize field trips to trade facilities and workshops to provide real-world exposure.

Thinks

“My child deserves the best”
“I wish my child could grow up to be the next president”

Says

“My child is the smartest kid in his class, his grades just don’t show it…”
“My kid? Average? No, he’s going to be a doctor AND an astronaut”

Feels

Is worried their child won’t be able to make a living in the future.
Denies that blue-collar work is even an option for their kid

Does

Tries to encourage their kids interests as hobbies and nothing more.
Tries to push to have their child into a subject they don’t like because it’s more lucrative

Solution

A subscription-box based curriculum to teach young students about trades as careers which will be paired with a show and badge program to ultimately enforce building, exploring,
and learning.