BOSTON, MA / ACCESS Newswire / December 12, 2025 / Bridge 2 Trades (B2T), a leading pre-apprenticeship and construction trade-exploratory program preparing youth and young adults for high-demand skilled careers, proudly announces the appointment of Taisha Crayton as its Chief Operating Officer (COO) and Co-Creator.
A Proven Leader Expanding Access & Opportunity
Crayton, a nationally recognized leader in inclusive procurement, workforce innovation, and economic mobility, has played a foundational role in shaping Bridge 2 Trades since its earliest stages. She brings a distinguished history of institutional leadership, including making history as Harvard University's first Director of the Office for Economic Inclusion & Diversity, where she built the University's inaugural framework for inclusive procurement.
As COO, Crayton will lead strategic operations, national expansion, partnership development, student support systems, and the employer pipeline connecting B2T participants to careers in:
HVAC
Electrical
Plumbing
Carpentry
Solar Installation
Project Management
Additional high-demand skilled trades
Her influence has strengthened industry collaboration, enhanced student experience, and helped build a scalable model that drives measurable impact.
Crayton's Vision: Generational Impact
"I know what it feels like to start with nothing-and I also know what becomes possible when someone invests in your future and becomes a bridge to opportunity," said Crayton.
"Bridge 2 Trades is about eliminating barriers and expanding potential. We're preparing young people not just for jobs, but for lifelong success. We are building legacy through access, equity, and real opportunity."
A Mission-Driven Movement
Deatrich Wise Jr., Co-Creator of Bridge 2 Trades, shared:
"Bridge 2 Trades is about opening doors that many young people have never had access to. Taisha's leadership has helped create pathways that don't just change the lives of our students-they change the trajectory of entire families. Her focus is shaping B2T from a program into a movement, strengthening our mission and expanding what's possible for the communities we serve."
A Vision Rooted in Collaboration
Andre Barbour, Director of Diversity & Inclusion at NEI General Contracting, added:
"Taisha has been a tremendous leader in bringing the vision of Bridge 2 Trades to life. Her expertise, collaboration, and deep commitment to supporting our youth have strengthened every facet of our partnership. As Steve Jobs said, ‘Great things in business are never done by one person-they're done by a team of people,' and Taisha exemplifies that truth every single day."
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About Bridge 2 Trades
Bridge 2 Trades (B2T) is a workforce development and pre-apprenticeship program introducing youth and young adults to high-demand skilled trades while strengthening the national talent pipeline. Through hands-on learning, mentorship, industry certifications, and employment pathways, B2T prepares participants for meaningful careers in HVAC, Electrical, Plumbing, Carpentry, Solar, Project Management, and more. B2T is powered by the WiseUp Foundation, founded by Deatrich Wise Jr.
Media Contact
Dawud Jr.
(774) 826-5616
Email: info@bridge2trades.com
Wise Up Foundation
SOURCE: Bridge 2 Trades (B2T)
View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire