Los Angeles business leader calls for greater community investment in trades education and youth athletic programs
LOS ANGELES, CA / ACCESS Newswire / December 9, 2025 / Ignacio Duron, CEO of Most Valuable Plumber and the subject of a newly released feature article spotlighting his career, is using the moment to advocate for two causes he says shaped his life: skilled-trade career pathways and youth sports programs.
Duron, who grew up in North Hollywood and co-founded a fast-growing plumbing company with his family, says both areas are undervalued despite their proven impact on communities, local economies, and young people.
"Trades changed my life. Sports changed my life. If we give more kids access to both, we change whole neighborhoods," Duron said in a statement accompanying today's announcement.
Duron Raises Awareness About Skilled Trades Shortage
Duron points to national data showing a growing crisis:
The U.S. will face over 500,000 unfilled plumbing and pipefitting roles by 2027, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
More than 40% of current plumbers are over age 45, meaning retirements will outpace new workers entering the field.
Skilled trades salaries continue to rise, with many workers earning $60,000-$100,000 annually without a four-year degree.
"There are young people who think their only path to success is college," Duron explained. "But trades offer real careers, real benefits, and real stability. We need to show them this path is not second choice - it's a strong choice."
Duron says hands-on problem solving, teamwork, and resilience are at the heart of the trades, and they are the same qualities that shaped him as a leader.
"I learned by doing. I learned by showing up. That's the kind of opportunity the trades give you," he said.
Championing Youth Sports as a Tool for Confidence and Leadership
Beyond business, Duron is known in Los Angeles County as a dedicated coach of youth football, flag football, and basketball - including the teams his sons play on. His advocacy for youth sports stems from lived experience.
"Kids need confidence more than anything," he said. "Sports give them structure, toughness, and real-life lessons you can't teach in a classroom."
Research supports his stance:
Kids who play organized sports are 15% more likely to have higher self-esteem, according to the Aspen Institute.
Students who participate in team sports are 40% less likely to drop out of school.
Youth sports participation is linked to better mental health, stronger social skills, and higher lifetime earning potential.
Duron says he's seen the impact firsthand:
"Years later, players come back and thank me for believing in them. That means everything."
Community Members Can Make a Difference
Rather than asking for funding or organizational support, Duron is calling on individuals to take meaningful local action.
"You don't have to run a business to make a difference," he says. "You can volunteer. You can mentor. You can coach. You can teach a kid how to use a tool or how to play a position. Every small action matters."
Duron encourages community members to consider:
Volunteering with local youth sports leagues.
Mentoring teens interested in trades.
Introducing young people to hands-on skills at home.
Supporting programs that offer trade-school scholarships or equipment donations.
Talking openly about alternative post-high school career paths.
"If every adult helped just one kid gain a skill or build confidence, we'd see real change across Los Angeles," he said.
To read the full interview, visit the website here.
About Ignacio Duron
Ignacio Duron is the CEO of Most Valuable Plumber and a lifelong resident of Los Angeles County. Raised in North Hollywood, he built his business alongside his siblings and brother-in-law, growing it into a trusted service provider across the region. Duron coaches youth sports, mentors young athletes, and is pursuing a bachelor's degree in Business Law at Arizona State University. His recent profile feature highlights his leadership, work ethic, and commitment to community development.
Contact
SOURCE: Ignacio Duron
View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire