Western Welding Academy is on a mission to build a better generation of blue-collar craftsmen. We are forging the next generation of skilled welders through an unwavering commitment to work ethic, accountability, and integrity. By focusing on student outcomes, we provide industry-leading education and hands-on training in a real-world environment, preparing our students to meet and exceed the demands of the welding industry.

At Western Welding Academy, we believe wholeheartedly in our mission because we understand the fundamental role blue-collar tradespeople play in the fabric of America. This country was built on the backs of skilled workers—men and women who put in the hard labor that made our roads, bridges, buildings, and industries possible. Blue-collar men and women are the backbone of our economic system, vital to every sector from manufacturing to infrastructure. However, for too long, our nation has focused predominantly on white-collar jobs and the push to send every young person to college, leaving skilled trades underappreciated and underrepresented. Today, we are facing a monumental shift. A worldwide demographic collapse is causing industry and manufacturing to return to American soil, and yet, we lack the skilled labor force needed to meet the immense demand. Even before this shift, there was a substantial need for skilled tradespeople, but now, with global supply chains crumbling and reshoring becoming a necessity, the demand for welders and other skilled workers is skyrocketing. At Western Welding Academy, we see this as our mission, to equip the next generation with the skills they need to thrive, to build strong careers, and to restore the backbone of America's industrial strength. We are committed to filling this gap, one welder at a time, because we believe that the future of our country depends on the hands of those willing to build it.

About Blue Grit

Blue Grit is a non-profit organization dedicated to raising awareness for blue-collar trades and expanding access to high-quality educational programs through scholarships and grants. Our mission is to support the next generation of skilled tradespeople by offering financial assistance, career exposure, and hands-on opportunities to students interested in pursuing a future in blue-collar industries.

Through initiatives such as the Blue Collar Tour, an annual welding competition, and the Blue Collar Revolution Podcast, we are redefining the perception of the trades while creating tangible opportunities for aspiring craftsmen.

As we expand our impact, we are looking for a driven, strategic, and organized leader to take on the role of Blue Grit Director in Gillette, Wyoming.

About the role

Position Overview:

The Blue Grit Director will be responsible for leading, organizing, and executing Blue Grit’s key initiatives to promote blue-collar trades and expand scholarship opportunities. This individual will manage and grow the Blue Collar Tour, oversee fundraising efforts, develop strategic partnerships, and ensure compliance with 501(c)(3) nonprofit regulations.

This role requires a strong leader with event management experience, fundraising expertise, and financial oversight capabilities. The ideal candidate must be engaging and dynamic, comfortable presenting to corporate sponsors, managing budgets, and fostering relationships with industry partners to secure sponsorships and funding.

A typical workweek for this position is 50+ hours, with travel required during event seasons.

What you'll do

Key Responsibilities:

Event Management & Program Oversight

• Lead the planning and execution of the Blue Collar Tour, a 60-day, 30-high school nationwide roadshow promoting blue-collar trades.
• Organize and coordinate the annual welding competition, ensuring high-quality participation and sponsorship engagement.
• Manage all logistics, vendor relationships, and operational aspects of Blue Grit’s events.
• Oversee and expand the Blue Collar Revolution Podcast, ensuring alignment with Blue Grit’s mission.

Fundraising & Sponsorship Development

• Develop, pitch, and secure sponsorships from corporations, trade organizations, and industry leaders to fund events and scholarships.
• Manage fundraising efforts for student scholarships and grants, identifying new revenue opportunities.
• Establish strong relationships with donors, sponsors, and community stakeholders.
• Track and report on fundraising progress, ensuring financial goals are met.

501(c)(3) Compliance & Financial Oversight

• Ensure strict compliance with IRS nonprofit regulations, tax laws, and financial reporting requirements.
• Oversee budgeting, grant disbursement, and financial planning for events and scholarships.
• Work closely with accountants and legal advisors to maintain nonprofit status and fiscal responsibility.

Corporate & Community Engagement

• Deliver compelling presentations to corporate executives and industry leaders to secure partnerships and funding.
• Represent Blue Grit at industry conferences, educational forums, and fundraising events.
• Build relationships with trade schools, high schools, and vocational programs to increase Blue Grit’s impact.

Qualifications

What We're Looking For:

• Proven experience in event management, fundraising, or nonprofit leadership (preferably in education or trade-related industries).
• Strong financial acumen with experience in budgeting, financial reporting, and grant management.
• Knowledge of 501(c)(3) nonprofit operations and ability to maintain compliance with all tax and financial regulations.
• Exceptional public speaking and presentation skills, with the ability to secure corporate sponsorships.
• Ability to travel extensively during the Blue Collar Tour and other major events.
• Passion for the trades industry and a deep understanding of the importance of blue-collar careers.
• Strong networking and relationship-building skills with industry professionals, donors, and community leaders.
• Self-motivated, highly organized, and able to manage multiple initiatives simultaneously.

Schedule & Travel Requirements:

• Standard hours: 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday.
• Frequent travel required, particularly during the Blue Collar Tour and major fundraising events.
• Occasional evening and weekend work based on business needs.