Sheila Ford Hamp Principal Owner & Chair at Detroit Lions | Detroit Lions
Sheila Ford Hamp Principal Owner & Chair at Detroit Lions | Detroit Lions
Carhartt and the Detroit Lions have announced a multi-year partnership aimed at celebrating the hardworking spirit of Detroit. The collaboration brings together two Michigan-based organizations with strong ties to the local community. The initiative is designed to recognize determination and grit, both on the football field and among those working in various trades across the city.
Throughout the upcoming season, fans can expect several activities connected to this partnership. These include events at Ford Field, exclusive experiences for fans, as well as digital and social media promotions. Carhartt will also be a presenting sponsor for multiple community programs during the Lions’ season.
Susan Hennike, Chief Brand Officer at Carhartt, said: "Our partnership deepens our connection to the Lions' passionate and hardworking fanbase and our hometown community of Detroit. By combining Carhartt's heritage with one of the most storied franchises in football, we're proud to create meaningful activations that celebrate our shared values of grit, determination and hard work – whether on the field or the jobsite."
Mike Disner, Detroit Lions Chief Operating Officer, added: "We are thrilled to partner with Carhartt, an iconic, home-grown brand that shares our values. The Detroit Lions and Carhartt both believe that the path to success is rooted in hard work and celebrate those who go to work every day to push the city of Detroit forward. We are excited to collaborate with Carhartt and continue to shed light on the grit and determination that both brands embody."
As part of this collaboration, Carhartt will support several initiatives:
- Skilled Trades Day will allow skilled trades workers access to discounted tickets for a select home game. Those participating will attend a pregame reception and be recognized during the event.
- Each home game will feature recognition for a high school football coach as "Coach of the Week," who will receive a $1,000 grant from Carhartt for their program and become eligible for "Coach of the Year."
- Employees at Ford Field and within the Detroit Lions organization will also be honored by Carhartt as part of annual recognition efforts.
This new partnership expands on Carhartt’s ongoing involvement in supporting sports teams in Detroit. The company already outfits crews such as those maintaining Comerica Park for baseball games or Little Caesars Arena for hockey.
Amid concerns about a shortage in skilled trades workers nationally—and with Michigan expecting about 47,000 trade job openings each year through 2026—Carhartt continues its efforts toward strengthening workforce pipelines through training programs and educational opportunities. The company emphasizes that careers in skilled trades are vital for both infrastructure needs and economic growth.
More information about skilled trade opportunities is available at Carhartt.com/JointheTrades.