Tool Drive
Join us in our mission to support entry-level construction workers and apprentices by donating essential tools!
Many new hires struggle to afford basic construction tools, creating a significant barrier to entry in the industry. Employers often expect workers to come equipped, but initial assistance isn’t always available.
Our Construction Tool Drive aims to reduce financial barriers for new workers in the trades, ensuring they have the necessary equipment to excel in their roles.
Get Involved
By donating tools or getting involved in our Construction Tool Drive Initiative, you can play a vital role in ensuring that new workers enter the trades ready and equipped for success. View our tool list for a list of equipment needed for the Starter Toolkits
Community & Contractors
Donate your new or like-new tools at a drop-off location
Home Improvement Stores & Tool Suppliers
Host a donation bin in-store
Participate in our “Buy a Tool, Give a Tool” campaign
Local Unions
Host a donation bin
Offer donation matches
Thank you to our partners
What We’re Looking For
We are seeking new or gently used tools to assemble Starter Toolkits for those just starting their careers in construction.
Hand Tools
- Chalk lines
- Carpenter pencils
- Cordless drills & drill bits
- Framing squares
- Tin snips
Safety & Work Gear
- Hard hats
- Safety glasses
- Work gloves
- Knee pads
- High-visibility vests
- Work boots (steel-toe, preferred)
Tool Storage
- Tool belts
- Small tool bags
Specialized Trade Tools for Carpenters
View tool list
- Carpenter’s tool box (min. 26″)
- Construction Master Pro Calculator
- Magnetic torpedo level
- Carpenter nail bags (2 separate w/ belt)
- Hand saw (15” min, 8–10 pt)
- Level (24″+)
- Cat’s paw
- Offset chisel ripping bar
- 100′ measuring tape (metal blade)
- 9” Linemen pliers
- Multi-tip screwdriver
- Sliding T-bevel square
- Surform pocket plane
- 16 oz. Plumb bob with reel
- 100’ Dry line
- Scribing tool or compass
- Vise grip locking pliers
- Chamfer cutters
- Framing square w/ rafter tables
- Adjustable square gauge set
- 2, 6” Vise Grip locking C-Clamp
- Drywall jab saw
- Aviation snips (green and red)
- Set of 3 nail sets
- 7″–10″ Flat pry bar
- Automatic center punch
- Wood chisel set (5 pcs)
- Coping saw with extra blades
- 7/8” Ratcheting box end wrench
Specialized Trade Tools for Ironworkers
View tool list
- Work Boots (6″ ankle+)
- 4-lb. Beater (Sledge
- Hammer)
- 12″ Adjustable Wrench
- 8’–10′ Rope (3/8″+)
- Screwdrivers (Flat &
- Phillips)
- Allen Wrenches
- Torch Striker
- Torch Tip Cleaners
- 5-Gallon Bucket
- Tie Wire Reel
- Hex Key Set
- Screwdriver Set
- Impact Flip Socket w/ Handle
- Tool Pouches
- Canvas Bull-Pin & Bolt Bag
- Adjustable Spud Wrench
- Magnetizer/Demagnetizer
- Pliers
- Wire Cutters
- Level
- Welding Equipment
- Cutting Torch
Specialized Trade Tools for Electricians
View tool list
- Work Boots (6″ ankle+)
- 4-lb. Beater (Sledge
- Hammer)
- 12″ Adjustable Wrench
- 8’–10′ Rope (3/8″+)
- Screwdrivers (Flat &
- Phillips)
- Allen Wrenches
- Torch Striker
- Torch Tip Cleaners
- 5-Gallon Bucket
- Tie Wire Reel
- Hex Key Set
- Screwdriver Set
- Impact Flip Socket w/
- Handle
- Tool Pouches
- Canvas Bull-Pin & Bolt Bag
- Adjustable Spud Wrench
- Magnetizer/Demagnetizer
- Pliers
- Wire Cutters
- Level
- Welding Equipment
- Cutting Torch
Frequently Asked Questions
What will be in each Starter Toolkit?
Each starter toolkit will include essential entry-level tools and safety gear commonly required by union and non-union construction employers:
Hand Tools:
- Tape Measure (25 ft. minimum)
- Hammer (16–20 oz.)
- Utility Knife + Extra Blades
- Speed Square
- Chalk Line
- Carpenter Pencils
Safety Gear:
- Hard Hat
- Safety Glasses
- Work Gloves
- High-Visibility Vest
- Knee Pads
Gear & Storage:
- Tool Belt
- Small Tool Bag
- Steel-Toe Work Boots (when available)
Toolkits may vary slightly based on trade needs and availability of donations.
Who will receive a Starter Toolkit?
Priority recipients include:
- Graduates of Palmer Pathways pre-apprenticeship program, especially those with financial need.
- Potential to expand to other pre-apprenticeship programs: ANEW, etc.
- New union apprentices entering trades such as carpentry, labor, ironwork, etc.
- Justice-involved or re-entry individuals entering the workforce through trades pathways.
- Youth or adults from underrepresented or historically marginalized communities beginning careers in construction.
How will toolkits be distributed?
Toolkits will be distributed in several ways to ensure accessibility and efficiency:
- Through Training Providers & Unions: Toolkits will be delivered to pre-apprenticeship and apprenticeship programs for direct handoff to participants.
- Via Workforce & Community Partners: Organizations such as Palmer Pathways, WorkForce Central, and others will provide toolkits to eligible clients.
