In my nearly two-decade-long journey in the construction industry, I’ve been fortunate to witness the transformation of ideas into beautifully crafted custom homes. At the age of fourteen, I embarked on a semi-traditional apprentice program, immersing myself in the world of high-end luxury homes.

Under the mentorship of Mr. Don, I honed my skills from the ground up—laying foundations, mastering framing, perfecting finish work, and embracing every facet of the construction process. The teamwork on job sites, where skilled professionals collaborated to bring visions to life, fueled my passion for an industry that builds things that can last multiple generations.

I remember our high school phasing out shop class and all across the country more high schools followed and shop class began to disappear from school curriculums. As a parent, I realized that my children could miss out on crucial exposure to the trades. In response, my wife and I, along with Eddie McGath are thrilled to give back to our community through The Gibson McGath Foundation’s Shop Class initiative.

The vision of The Gibson McGath Foundation is to Inspire the Next Generation to Build. Our mission is clear: revive shop classes for high school juniors and seniors in the Las Vegas and Henderson areas, which will give them a glimpse into the trades before they embark on life-altering decisions. We have a 25,000-square-foot facility secured and a strategic partnership with schools in the area.

Seniors participating in the Shop Class project will have the unique opportunity to construct a Tiny Home from the ground up. From deciphering blueprints to mastering framing, MEP systems, siding, and finishing touches, this hands-on experience will provide invaluable insights into the world of construction.

Our excitement extends to involving trade professionals in construction, engineering, and architecture from the Las Vegas Valley. Career days will serve as a platform to showcase the diverse and evolving opportunities within the construction industry—a sector that stands as the world’s largest. With twenty-six years of experience, I’ve witnessed the industry’s evolution, embracing cutting-edge technology and structural steel.

The broader goal is to instill in the next generation a profound passion for the trades, equipping them with fundamental skill sets to care for their homes and explore potential career paths. By shedding light on the financial rewards and job satisfaction that the trades offer, we hope to alter perceptions and restore prestige and respect to this vital industry.

The Gibson McGath Foundation, driven by my wife, myself, and Eddie McGrath, is fully committed to making the Shop Class project a resounding success. Join us as we embark on this exciting journey toward shaping the builders of tomorrow!

The Gibson McGath Foundation, driven by my wife, myself, and Eddie McGrath, is fully committed to making the Shop Class project a resounding success. If you would like to know more about how you can donate funds, time, or tools, please call my personal cell at (702) 575-4379‬ or contact our Foundation Director, Eddie McGath at (702) 275-0322.