LOS ANGELES, CA, February 07, 2026 /24-7PressRelease/ -- Following the release of a recent spotlight feature on his career, Ignacio Duron, CEO of Most Valuable Plumber, is using the moment to raise awareness around the growing need for skilled trades education, mentorship, and realistic career exposure for young people.
Duron's career journey, from hands-on plumbing work in North Hollywood to leading a family-run business across Los Angeles County, reflects what he believes is missing from many career conversations today.
"A lot of people talk about success without talking about the work behind it," Duron said. "Trades show you how effort, patience, and problem-solving come together in real life."
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the skilled trades sector faces a significant gap, with more than 500,000 plumbing and construction roles expected to go unfilled by the end of the decade due to retirements and low entry rates. At the same time, infrastructure demands continue to rise in major cities like Los Angeles.
Duron also points to mentorship and youth sports as overlooked tools for long-term development. Research from the Aspen Institute shows that young people involved in organised sports are more likely to develop leadership skills, confidence, and persistence, traits that translate directly into the workplace.
"Coaching kids taught me that growth takes time," Duron said. "You don't rush it. You show up, stay consistent, and let people learn through experience."
Rather than promoting formal programmes, Duron is encouraging individuals to take personal action within their own communities. He suggests talking openly with young people about hands-on careers, inviting them to observe real work environments, volunteering as coaches or mentors, and sharing practical skills at home.
"You don't need a big platform to help someone," he said. "Sometimes just showing how real work gets done can change how someone sees their future."
Call to Action
Community members can support the future workforce by mentoring, coaching, or simply having honest conversations about career paths that value skill, effort, and consistency. Small, local actions can help close growing skills gaps and build stronger communities.
As Duron puts it, "Progress happens when people are willing to pass on what they've learned."
Ignacio Duron is a Los Angeles–based business owner and CEO of Most Valuable Plumber. Raised in North Hollywood, he built his career through hands-on trade experience before co-founding a family-run plumbing business serving communities across Los Angeles County. He is also a youth sports coach and continues his studies in Business Law.
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