HUNTERSVILLE, NC — IRWIN Tools, a manufacturer and distributor of hand tools and power tool accessories, celebrated the contributions of trade professionals across the country on the fourth annual National Tradesmen Day, which took place September 19. The company established National Tradesmen Day in 2011 to both celebrate the work of America’s skilled trade professionals and thank them for their continued contributions.

“We all owe a debt of gratitude to professional tradesmen,” said Rich Mathews, senior vice president, IRWIN Tools. “Without these hard working men and women, our nation’s infrastructure and our way of life would come to a screeching halt.”

National Tradesmen Day also raises awareness of the national shortage of tradesmen. Only one skilled trade worker enters the workforce for every three who retire, according to the ManpowerGroup. At the same time, the American Society of Civil Engineers gave American infrastructure a D+ rating in 2013, highlighting the growing need for tradesmen.

Infrastructure-based development helps boost the economy, as does manufacturing, which relies heavily on skilled trade workers and contributed over $2.08 trillion to the economy in 2013, according to the Bureau of Economic Analysis. By celebrating tradesmen and elevating their role in society, IRWIN Tools hopes to encourage young Americans to explore and enter trade professions.

For more information, visit nationaltradesmenday.com or facebook.com/nationaltradesmenday.