Craftsman with Character Webinar Recap
Empowering Tomorrow’s Workforce,
Building Character in Your Community Today
A Recap of the Inspiring Webinar Led by Dave Hataj of Craftsman with Character
In a time when industries across America are facing a widening skilled labor gap, one organization is turning heads and transforming futures. During the recent NFFS webinar, "Empowering Tomorrow’s Workforce, Building Character in Your Community Today," Dave Hataj, founder of Craftsman with Character, delivered a compelling look into how character-driven mentorship is reshaping workforce development for the skilled trades.
A Movement Rooted in Purpose
Craftsman with Character isn’t just a program—it’s a movement. With operations in 23 schools across three states and plans to grow to 60 schools in seven states next year, it’s clear this initiative is gaining serious momentum. But what truly sets it apart? According to Hataj, it's not just about building skills—it's about building people.
More Than Skills: Building Integrity, Humility, and Purpose
Hataj emphasized a simple but radical truth during the webinar: “Workforce development must go deeper than technical training, it must shape the heart.” That’s where the Craftsman Code comes in. Students in the program recite powerful affirmations like:
- “I’m not the center of the universe.”
- “There’s dignity and purpose in my trade.”
- “The world needs me.”
This code isn’t just lip service—it forms the backbone of the program’s weekly character education sessions, designed to instill humility, work ethic, and a sense of greater purpose.
A Model Built on Mentorship
At the core of Craftsman with Character is real-world exposure and meaningful mentorship. Students spend four days a week job-shadowing at local businesses and one day focused on character development. They rotate through departments and industries, guided by professionals who don’t just teach skills—they model integrity.
This blend of experience and mentorship has caught the attention of industry leaders and organizations like the US Navy and the Non-Ferrous Founders’ Society (NFFS), who see the program as a key part of closing the skilled trades gap.
A Win-Win for Communities and Industry
One of the highlights of the webinar was the discussion around the ripple effect Craftsman with Character creates in local communities:
- Stronger Talent Pipelines: Businesses identify and nurture future employees.
- Engaged Employees: Mentoring reinvigorates seasoned professionals.
- Bridged Gaps: The program fosters collaboration between schools, businesses, and communities.
As Hataj noted, "This isn’t charity—it’s smart, sustainable workforce strategy."
Full Support, Real Results
Craftsman with Character doesn’t just drop a curriculum and walk away. They offer hands-on training, detailed templates, and continuous guidance to ensure schools and businesses can successfully implement the program. And the outcomes speak volumes:
- A high percentage of graduates pursue careers in trades or manufacturing.
- Employers report increased retention and morale.
- Students gain confidence, clarity, and purpose.
A Call to Action for NFFS Members
If you're a member of the Non-Ferrous Founders’ Society, now is the time to get involved. Reach out to Craftsman with Character to empower young people in your community with purpose, skills, and direction—while simultaneously building your future talent pipeline. This is an opportunity to make a lasting difference in lives, in your business, and in your community.
Watch the Webinar
Missed the live event? You can watch the full webinar recording here:
Watch the Webinar: Empowering Tomorrow’s Workforce, Building Character in Your Community Today
To learn more about Craftsman with Character and explore partnership opportunities, visit craftsmanwithcharacter.org.