Matthew Walter Riley Calls for Renewed Support of Skilled Trades and Volunteer Service

Matthew Walter Riley of Iowa urges communities to strengthen the skilled trades and volunteer fire service through local action and long-term commitment.

RED OAK, IA / ACCESS Newswire / February 13, 2026 /Business owner, tradesman, and public-service leader Matthew Riley is raising awareness around the growing need for skilled trades professionals and volunteer emergency responders. Drawing on decades of experience in construction, business ownership, aviation, and public safety, Riley is highlighting workforce gaps that affect local economies and community safety.

Riley began his career in the skilled trades in the 1990s after growing up on a century farm in northwest Iowa. He completed a four-year sheet metal apprenticeship and later built and acquired businesses across construction, real estate, aviation, and related industries.

"The trades gave me my foundation, " Riley said. "They taught me discipline, problem-solving, and how systems really work. Those skills carried into every business I 've built since. "

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, millions of skilled trade workers are expected to retire over the next decade, while enrollment in trade programs has not kept pace. In construction alone, industry groups estimate that hundreds of thousands of positions are unfilled nationwide. At the same time, the National Volunteer Fire Council reports that the number of volunteer firefighters in the U.S. has dropped by more than 25 percent since the 1980s, even as call volumes continue to rise.

Riley has seen the impact firsthand. He served ten years with the Corning Volunteer Fire Department, advancing to Captain and holding leadership roles at the board level. He has also served on regional dive teams and in aviation search-and-rescue operations.

"When volunteer numbers drop, response times suffer, " Riley said. "That 's not abstract. That 's real people waiting longer for help. "

Riley believes the issue is not a lack of capable people but a lack of exposure and encouragement. He credits vocational programs, apprenticeships, and early work experience with giving him direction.

"I didn 't take a straight path, " he said. "But I had mentors, programs, and opportunities that showed me what was possible. "

Beyond emergency services, Riley points to the economic importance of skilled labor. Trades careers often provide strong wages, low student debt, and long-term stability. Many trade professionals go on to start businesses, manage teams, and invest locally.

"These are careers where you can build something tangible, " Riley said. "You can see the result of your work and pass those skills on. "

Riley is encouraging individuals to take simple, practical steps. He suggests exploring local trade programs, talking to union halls or vocational schools, and learning about volunteer opportunities in fire, rescue, or emergency communications. He also urges parents and community leaders to present trades and services as respected, viable paths.

"You don 't have to do everything, " Riley said. "Just start by learning what 's needed in your own community. "

Call to Action
Community members can support skilled trades and volunteer service by learning about local apprenticeship programs, attending open houses at fire departments, encouraging young people to explore hands-on careers, and, where possible, considering volunteering time or expertise. Small actions, Riley says, add up over time.

About Matthew Riley
Matthew Riley is an Iowa-based business owner, tradesman, and public-service leader. His background spans construction, real estate, aviation, and public safety. He has served as a volunteer firefighter and captain, regional dive team member, and mission pilot. Riley advocates for skilled trades education, volunteer service, and long-term community resilience.

Media Contact:

Matthew Walter Riley
info@matthew-riley.com
www.matthew-riley.com

SOURCE:Matthew Walter Riley

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