US Careers Online an effort to help fill a large jobs gap left by retiring baby boomers

Retiring baby boomers have left many job vacancies in skilled trade careers. A local businessman believes online videos can inspire students to fill those jobs.

"Companies today are constantly looking for employees — good employees, skilled workers — and that’s the reason I started this," said founder Jim Babson.

Babson created the online resource for middle and high school students, their parents, educators and anyone seeking a change of careers.

Babson believes the short videos may help students and other job seekers find out what jobs like information technology, electric line construction or health care are like.

He says there is a high demand for painters, truck drivers, auto mechanics and even in the culinary arts field.

Jobs like heating and air technicians may not seem glamorous, but Babson says high demand careers can offer good salaries, often more than what some college graduates earn.

"Let’s say, they’ve got a four-year degree, they’ve got college debt, six months on the job and they say, ‘You know, I don’t want to do this anymore,’" said Babson.

Babson’s team works with community colleges and industry trainers to provide a vision for those looking for a career path that fits their interests.

"If you use this video, within five minutes, and it can inspire you and inform you and can change your life, then it’s worthwhile," he said.

Babson’s says the resource does not depend on tax dollars. He says he is supported by business and industry who need to attract more skilled workers.