What happened: The Philadelphia Phillies and NEST hosted 23 high school students for the third annual Skilled Trades All-Star program at Citizens Bank Park. Participants received an immersive look at the ballpark's HVAC controls, carpentry shop, and mechanical spaces while learning from professional facility managers.

Why it matters: The initiative addresses the national labor shortage by highlighting essential, high-paying career paths required to maintain major sports venues. This session also focused on preparations for the upcoming 2026 MLB All-Star Week, showcasing work from the same Skilled Trades All-Star program highlighted in May.

By the numbers: Phillies record: 36-31; NL East standing: 2nd (9.0 GB); Students hosted: 23; Program year: 3rd.

What to watch: The Phillies continue their road trip in Toronto while the community initiative moves toward national expansion through the Skilled Trades Advisory Council.

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