OUR IMPACT

We believe every person should have the opportunity to have a family-sustaining career, become contributing citizens within their communities, home owners, and leaders.

For over 13 years, TIP has provided holistic support, skilled training, and career opportunities for emerging workers and untapped talent, creating pathways to sustained career growth and upward mobility.

Since our founding in 2013, we have impacted over 1400 lives in our region. Our graduates are starting jobs at higher wages. We have over 50 active employer partners, and our flourishing alumni program offers a meaningful network for our graduates. In 2025, we served 84 alumni through post-graduation support and homeownership programming, including 11 homebuyer education workshops that helped build a strong pipeline of residents working toward housing stability and ownership.

Alumni Success Stories
How Gratitude Changed Mankia’s Life

In this Circle Alumni Success Story, Mankia shares how practicing gratitude every day helped transform her mindset and outlook on life.

More Than A Shed
The Story Behind TIP’s Student-Built Project

Every shed has a story. Every nail driven and every screw secured carries healing, growth, and lived experience. These walls didn’t just go up through construction, they rose from resilience and stand as proof that someone chose not to quit.

Alumni Success Stories
From Uncertain to Leading Crews: EJ’s Story

Meet EJ Davis, an alumnus of Trade Institute of Pittsburgh (TIP) and now a TIPX Crew Lead, who has experienced firsthand what it means to go from uncertainty to purpose.

Alumni Success Stories
How I Started a Career in Skilled Trades: Rayne’s Story

If you’re thinking about starting a career in the skilled trades, this story might be exactly what you need to hear.

Alumni Success Stories
How Trade School Changed Her Life: Alexis’s Story

How trade school changed her life. In celebration of Women in the Trades Month, Alexis shares how the Trade Institute of Pittsburgh helped her build confidence and step into a career in the skilled trades.

Alumni Success Stories
They Set Me on a Path to a Better Life: Dre’s Story

In this inspiring video, meet Dre — a TIP student whose life was transformed through commitment, community, and the support of The Trade Institute of Pittsburgh. From facing instability and loss to finding purpose and structure, Dre opens up about how TIP helped him take control of his future.

Alumni Success Stories
Finding Purpose at the Trade Institute of Pittsburgh: Graham’s Story

In this video, Graham shares how the Trade Institute of Pittsburgh helped him move from feeling lost to finding purpose, community, and direction. He reflects on our morning Gratitude Circle Why TIP is a powerful space to build skills, reach ones potential and grow emotionally.

Alumni Success Stories
TIP Changed My Life Forever: David’s Story

Watch this incredibly moving speech by TIP Graduate and Carpenters Union Apprentice David Pharr at our 10th Anniversary Celebration; the film is an excerpt from his talk with scenes from the celebration and our classrooms.

Alumni Success Stories
How Trade School Helped Him Build a New Future: Dustin’s Story

Dustin’s journey is a powerful reminder of what’s possible with the right support and opportunity.

Alumni Success Stories
TIP Open House 2025: Khyann’s Story

Support more students like Khyann at tipgh.org/support-us