Hard Hats for Detroit, presented by Sachse Construction, is a charity art auction that brings together builders, makers, and artists to celebrate creativity in the trades.
Three local artists are partnering with industry sponsors to transform construction hard hats into one-of-a-kind works of art, which then will be auctioned to support youth-focused workforce development across the city.
“Hard Hats for Detroit connects the people who build our city — artists, makers, and tradespeople — with the next generation learning to do the same,” says Todd Sachse, CEO of Sachse Construction in Detroit. “This year, we invited industry sponsors to join the effort and expand our impact. Together, we’re using creativity and craftsmanship to strengthen Detroit s future.”
Bidding for the hard hats at hardhatsfordetroit.com has been open since Dec. 2 and closes Dec. 10. A celebratory cocktail reception is scheduled for Dec. 9 from 5-7 p.m. at Robyn Detroit, 441 W. Canfield St., in Detroit.
Artists, along with their industry sponsors and charitable beneficiaries, include:
- Bo Shepherd of Woodward Throwbacks, Milwaukee Tool. Proceeds to benefit construction apprenticeship at Focus: HOPE.
“Milwaukee Tool is committed to supporting the skilled trades,” says Justin Ross, senior national account manager at Milwaukee Tool. “Partnering with Bo and Focus: HOPE helps us deliver on that commitment with real, visible impact.”
- April Wagner of Epiphany Glass, LuxWall. Proceeds to benefit EcoWorks Detroit, supporting workforce development job training.
“This piece mirrors what LuxWall stands for,” says Scott Thomsen, CEO of LuxWall. “Bettering the built environment.”
Wagner says, “As a glass artist, I’m fascinated by how something fragile can become strong through fire. It’s the perfect metaphor for what this initiative represents; creating opportunity, resilience, and beauty from hard work.”
- Josh Welton of Brown Dog Welding, Carhartt. Proceeds to benefit the welding department at the Randolph Career and Technical Center next to Renaissance High School on the city’s west side.
“We’re thrilled to partner with our friends at Randolph Career and Technical Center to invest in the next generation of welders in our hometown of Detroit,” says Todd Corley, chief people and impact officer at Carhartt. “At Carhartt, we’re proud to support students’ education and growth as they pursue rewarding career opportunities available in the skilled trades.”
