The Skillwork Forum: Skilled Trades Staffing

In this episode of The Skillwork Forum, hosts Tim Raglin and Brett Elliott revisit one of their most talked-about topics — the evolving perception of skilled trades in America.They explore whether cultural attitudes toward hard work and blue-collar careers are finally shifting, especially among Gen Z and younger generations. From the rising influence of trade professionals on social media to the increase in trade school enrollment and industry-education partnerships, they break down the key factors fueling this momentum. Tim and Brett also discuss how technology, including AI, is reshaping the skilled trades while reinforcing the critical need for human problem-solving and hands-on expertise. Tune in as they examine why skilled trades may be entering a true golden era — and what that means for the future of the workforce.

In this episode of The Skillwork Forum, hosts Tim Raglin and Brett Elliott talk with Jim Townsend, Training and Development Manager at Kawasaki, about the company's apprenticeship initiatives. They discuss how Kawasaki's structured training programs bridge the skills gap, develop a strong talent pipeline, and set an industry example for workforce development.

In this episode of The Skillwork Forum, hosts Tim Raglin and Brett Elliott sit down with Karl Williams from AIM Services and CED Industrial Solutions Network to discuss the future of automation in American manufacturing. As industries rapidly adopt AI, robotics, and IoT technologies, companies face major challenges, including the skills gap, cybersecurity risks, and workforce adaptation. Karl shares insights on how manufacturers can modernize operations, implement strategic workforce planning, and mitigate risks while leveraging emerging technologies.

In this episode of The Skillwork Forum, hosts Tim Raglin and Brett Elliott dive into Deloitte's 2025 Manufacturing Outlook, uncovering the critical trends shaping the skilled trades and manufacturing industries.They explore how advancements in AI, smart operations, and clean energy are transforming the industry while addressing ongoing challenges like supply chain disruptions and talent shortages. Join them as they share strategies to help businesses thrive and highlight opportunities for future industry leaders.

Tim and Brett sit down with Dr. Ernie Goss, a leading economist from Creighton University, to discuss the future of U.S. manufacturing. From workforce participation challenges to the rise of AI and automation, Dr. Goss offers his expert insights on how the skilled trades can adapt to thrive in a competitive global market. Highlights The state of the U.S. economy heading into 2025. The skilled labor gap and solutions for workforce shortages. Why embracing market competition and technology is crucial for manufacturers.

In this episode of The Skillwork Forum, hosts Tim Raglan and Brett Elliott welcome Dave Weininger and Garrett Swanberg from Release Ministries. They discuss how their "Safe, Together, Healthy, Free" model supports at-risk youth through mentoring, mental health services, and community care, raising future leaders. 

In this Skillwork Forum episode, hosts Tim and Brett are joined by Major Scott Shelbourne, Divisional Commander of the Salvation Army's Western Division, to discuss the organization's rich history, mission to combat poverty, impactful programs like mental health respite and winter outreach, and ways businesses can foster a culture of giving back to their communities.

In this episode, Skillwork hosts speak with Food Bank for the Heartland (foodbankheartland.org) to discuss the growing issue of food insecurity across 93 counties. From corporate partnerships to volunteer efforts, learn how businesses and individuals can help support their neighbors, especially during the holidays.

In this episode, hosts Tim Raglin and Brett Elliott are joined by Jason Rothfuss to explore how aligning people, processes, purpose, and vision can drive business success. They discuss the importance of implementing structured business systems, like Pinnacle, to help leaders step back and allow their companies to grow. The conversation highlights the value of daily improvements, self-reflection, and creating a self-managing business.

In this episode with Rishabh Mehrotrara, Tim and Brett dive into how the staffing industry is adapting to both cyclical and structural changes. They discuss the importance of building a culture that embraces change, leveraging technology to engage and redeploy talent, and fostering transparency in leadership. Key takeaways include the need for honest assessment to drive growth, using technology to build a skilled workforce, and knowing when to act amid change. These strategies help staffing firms navigate uncertainties and succeed.

In this Skillwork Forum episode, Tim and Brett chat with Dan Moline, STEM Program Director at Scouting America. Dan discusses his transition from teaching to promoting STEM education within scouting, focusing on engaging youth in hands-on learning. He highlights the increasing interest in STEM careers, the challenges of staffing, and the need for schools to adapt new technology mandates. Dan highlights the significant impact of their programs, aiming to bridge the skills gap in manufacturing and inspire future generations.

In this episode, Tim Raglin and Brett Elliott discuss the challenges of managing organizational change with Robb Clemans. Robb explains that change can be mentally taxing, even likening it to physical pain, and stresses the importance of clear communication and patience. They discuss how involving employees early can reduce resistance and make transitions smoother. The conversation underscores the necessity of effective change management to ensure resources are well-utilized and changes are successfully implemented.

In this episode of The Skillwork Forum, Tessa Porter, founder of Sprinkk, shares insights from her entrepreneurial journey, highlighting the importance of thorough preparation and risk-taking. She discusses building a positive team culture and offers practical advice for aspiring entrepreneurs. Tessa also reflects on her experiences as a female entrepreneur in male-dominated fields, emphasizing that gender should not constrain career opportunities and that more women in these roles can inspire future generations.

In this episode, Tim Raglin and Brett Elliott discuss with Mark Dermott from Visus Group, about how to align mission and vision with company culture. They emphasize the need for mission and vision to be memorable and actionable, not just measurable, and advise addressing any misalignment in daily work by understanding the root cause and taking necessary actions. They also highlight that a clear mission and vision provide crucial focus and warn against letting high performers bypass cultural values. The episode focuses on integrating mission and vision into daily practices to drive organizational success.

In this episode of The Skillwork Forum, Tim Raglin, Brett Elliott, and Kevin Hensel from BetterCulture discuss strategies for developing an engaging workplace culture. They emphasize that leadership is key in shaping culture through influence rather than position. Effective leaders must model and reinforce positive behaviors to drive business success. Key indicators of a healthy culture include a positive mood, high employee retention, and strong engagement. The conversation also highlights the importance of balancing enjoyment with performance and underscores that achieving cultural change requires commitment, courage, and ongoing effort. This episode offers practical insights on fostering a thriving workplace culture for anyone listening.

Welcome back to another insightful episode of The Skillwork Forum! In this episode, hosts Tim Raglin and Brett Elliott are joined by special guest Jake Williams from Rinsenhaus, formerly known as CED. As a returning guest and expert in manufacturing technology, Jake dives deep into the annual Rockwell State of Smart Manufacturing report.

In this episode of The Skillwork Forum, the hosts discuss supporting military veterans' transition to civilian careers with Jordie Kern, founder of 7 Eagle Group. They highlight the challenges veterans face and the valuable skills they bring to companies, focusing on initiatives like the SkillBridge program that facilitate this transition. The conversation also addresses misconceptions about military personnel and emphasizes veterans' suitability for modern manufacturing jobs, aligning with Skillwork's mission to connect skilled tradespeople with leading employers.

In this episode, we delve into cybersecurity amidst the fourth industrial revolution, where technology has revolutionized manufacturing. This shift, while incredible, exposes manufacturers to significant risks. Cybersecurity is crucial here—it's not just about physical security like locked doors; it's safeguarding digital assets from global threats. The integration of Internet of Things (IoT) devices enhances efficiency but also increases vulnerability. Attacks are lucrative—ranging from ransom demands to intellectual property theft. Protecting against these threats requires a comprehensive approach, including user training, network segmentation, and robust backup strategies. The stakes are high; a breach can paralyze operations and erode customer trust. Investing in cybersecurity isn't just prudent—it's essential for safeguarding the future of manufacturing.

In this episode, "Upskilling your Workforce is the Competitive Edge You Need," hosts Tim Raglin and Brett Elliott, along with guest Andy Camp, delve into the critical role of training and upskilling in today's workforce. This conversation emphasizes the benefits of investing in employee development, highlighting how it can enhance job satisfaction, productivity, and your company's competitiveness. The episode also explores the partnership between Skillwork and ES&E in creating effective training programs that focus on skills rather than specific technologies, providing workers with the tools to adapt and thrive in a rapidly changing industry.

The Skillwork Forum podcast dives into the State of Smart Manufacturing report by Rockwell, discussing key challenges like inflation, cybersecurity, and workforce issues. Tim Raglin and Brett Elliott explore how companies are upskilling employees, managing change, and investing strategically to mitigate these obstacles. Tune in for insights on navigating these critical issues in the manufacturing space.

In this episode, hosts Tim Raglin and Brett Elliott engage Kevin Bailey in a discussion on retaining skilled labor in tactical positions. They delve into fostering a self-policing culture, adapting leadership to different generations, and the importance of celebrating wins while addressing low performers. The conversation highlights the significance of aligning actions with values, prioritizing safety, and continuous reflection for building a successful organization.

Discover expert strategies for attracting top talent to your business on The Skillwork Forum Podcast. In this episode, our special guest Tom Kosnik shares invaluable insights on building a high-performing team that can transform your organization. We discuss the crucial role of a strong hiring process, the importance of aligning candidate preferences with organizational culture, and how to identify and retain top performers.

In this episode, Skillwork's Brett Elliott and Mike Matlock recap their experience at Pack Expo East 2024. They discuss the challenges faced by the workforce, the impact of technology on industrial maintenance, and innovative solutions being implemented in the industry. They share valuable insights into the future of manufacturing and how companies are adapting to meet the evolving needs of the workforce.

In this episode of the Skillwork Forum podcast, Brett Elliott is joined by Ashley Teut and Mike Matlock to discuss key takeaways from the International Production and Process Expo (IPPE) in Atlanta. They delve into challenges faced by rural manufacturing facilities, the struggles of international companies to find skilled workers in the U.S., and the impact of the manufacturing boom on talent acquisition. The conversation highlights the critical need for skilled workers and innovative solutions in the industry. Connect with Skillwork: Skillwork's website Skillwork's LinkedIn Skillwork's YouTube channel Reach out to Rveal: Rveal's website Rveal's LinkedIn Rveal's YouTube channel

In this episode, Brett Elliott and Josh Roza from Skillwork interview David Brown, Business Development Manager at Factbird, a manufacturing intelligence company. They discuss Factbird's unique approach to tracking production data without stopping production, highlighting a case study where a customer optimized their processes after realizing the impact of frequent micro-stoppages. David also explains Factbird's ease of implementation and its competitive edge in data analysis. They touch on the skilled labor gap in manufacturing and the challenges it poses for the industry and provide solutions! Connect with Skillwork: Skillwork's website Skillwork's LinkedIn Skillwork's YouTube channel Reach out to Rveal: Rveal's website Rveal's LinkedIn Rveal's YouTube channel

In part two of "Re-set 2024," Tim and Brett delve into setting meaningful and measurable goals for teams and organizations. Reflecting on personal goals from part one, they emphasize the importance of translating those insights into team objectives. The discussion covers Agile methodologies, including retrospectives and SWOT analyses, to assess past performance and plan for future success. They emphasize the significance of clear communication, alignment with organizational goals, and consistent evaluation to drive growth and achievement. Through practical examples and personal experiences, they highlight the value of setting commitments, fostering accountability, and maintaining a rhythm of reflection and action. Ultimately, the episode underscores the importance of honest dialogue, servant leadership, and a shared vision in driving organizational success  Connect with Skillwork: Skillwork's website Skillwork's LinkedIn Skillwork's YouTube channel Rveal's website Rveal's LinkedIn Rveal's YouTube channel Reach out to Rveal:

In this insightful episode, Tim Raglin, COO of Skillwork, and Brett Elliott, President & CEO of Skillwork, delve into the crucial topic of personal goal setting. They discuss the importance of intentional thinking, sharing personal experiences and practical strategies to set and achieve meaningful goals. The conversation covers the significance of accountability, the power of writing down goals, and the necessity of measuring progress. Tim and Brett emphasize the value of alignment between personal and organizational goals and share their personal practices, including the use of tools like the Full Focus Planner. The episode concludes with a meaningful discussion on choosing a guiding word for the year, with Brett focusing on "truth" and Tim on "candor." Listeners gain valuable insights into creating a purposeful and achievable roadmap for personal growth and success. Stay tuned for the next episode, where Tim and Brett will explore organizational goal-setting practices. Main Takeaways: 

In this insightful episode of The Skillwork Forum, titled "It's Time To Paint A New Future For the Trades," hosts Brett Elliott, President & CEO of Skillwork, and Tim Raglin, COO of Skillwork, delve into the major impacts, trends, and challenges they foresee in the skilled trades industry. Whether you're a seasoned professional, a business leader, or someone considering a career in the trades, this episode is packed with valuable insights that will help you understand the current state of the skilled trades and prepare for the future. Don't miss out on this insightful discussion about the future of the skilled trades. Watch the full episode of "It's Time To Paint A New Future For the Trades" on YouTube now. Stay ahead of the curve and elevate your career or business by tuning in. Connect, learn, and grow with the Skillwork Forum Podcast – the go-to source for all things related to skilled trades.

Empowering Women in Manufacturing! Join the Skillwork Forum as Tim Raglin and Allison Grealis, President of Women in Manufacturing, discuss the dynamic opportunities for women in the skilled trades. Key Takeaways: 30% of the manufacturing workforce is women, with a focus on leadership. Early awareness is crucial to break stereotypes and inspire future generations. Women in Manufacturing: 26,000+ members supporting careers at all levels. Empowering women in production through virtual skill enhancement programs. 1 in 4 manufacturing professionals are women, reshaping perceptions. Reshoring opportunities in the semiconductor industry for skilled workers. Virtual plant tours showcase the modern, high-tech side of manufacturing. Flexibility, diversity, and inclusion integral to modern manufacturing careers. Join the Movement: #WomenInManufacturing #Empowerment #ManufacturingCareers Allison Grealis: "Showcasing what's possible because if they can see it, they can be it."

2023 Recap & 2024 Outlook: Navigating the Manufacturing Evolution! Hey, manufacturing enthusiasts! Tim Raglin and Brett Elliott here, diving into the trends shaping the industry. Let's recap 2023 and peer into the future of 2024! Evolving Workforce: Millennials have taken the employment lead, changing the game. The workforce is evolving, and motivations are shifting. Coping with Change: Layoffs, inflation, and a 'great rate reset'—2023 brought challenges. But, in manufacturing, a unique dichotomy unfolded, setting the stage for 2024. Manufacturing Boom: Government initiatives drive a manufacturing boom. Onshoring reshapes the landscape. But, with great opportunities come greater workforce demands. Innovative Workforce Strategies: On the horizon, 2024 beckons innovation. Workforce strategies need a facelift, embracing tech, and tapping into retirees to bridge the skills gap. Looking Forward: The talent pool is shrinking, and the battle for skilled workers is intensifying. As we head into 2024, it's not just about jobs; it's about creating a workplace that attracts and retains the best. Stay tuned for a transformative 2024 in manufacturing! Let's shape the future together.

In this Skillwork Forum episode, hosts Tim Raglin and Brett Elliott delve into the captivating realm of semiconductor manufacturing. Amidst global supply chain challenges, they shed light on the critical need to bring semiconductor production back onshore. From the impact on industries during COVID to the introduction of the CHIPS Act, discover how the U.S. aims to regain control of its semiconductor supply. With a staggering $155 billion investment, the government seeks to incentivize and drive the resurgence of semiconductor manufacturing. Join the hosts as they discuss the ambitious goal of achieving 30% domestic production by 2030, ensuring security and reducing dependency on overseas manufacturing. The duo emphasizes the demand for skilled technicians and the exciting educational initiatives, including microelectronics programs and semiconductor degrees, aimed at filling this talent gap. They tackle the challenges and opportunities presented by this manufacturing boom and highlight the national security implications. Don't miss this compelling discussion on the Skillwork Forum, where the future of technology and skill trades collide!

Dive into the Future of Manufacturing!

In this enlightening episode titled "Navigating the New Normal In The Trade World"

In this episode, Tim and Brett delve deep into the evolving economic trends post-pandemic. From the significant rise of onshore manufacturing to the tightening labor market, they shed light on the challenges and opportunities businesses face today. Brett highlights the undeniable demand for flexibility in the workforce, emphasizing the need for improved wages and benefits. As consumer spending shifts away from durable goods, the duo discusses the resurgence of the service sector, especially travel and entertainment. Join us as we explore these pivotal changes and their impact on the future of manufacturing and the broader economy.

Dive into a riveting discussion on the trajectory of the fourth industrial revolution, the state of manufacturing in Nebraska, and the pressing workforce challenges. Mike Johnson sheds light on Nebraska's position in the Industry 4.0 landscape, emphasizing the need for early robotics education and the potential of automation to unlock productivity. Tim Raglin and Brett Elliott further explore the importance of integrating technology in schools and the role of policy in shaping the future.

In this episode of the

Dive into the transformative world of Industry 4.0 with our latest episode! Join industry leaders Brett Elliot, Tim Raglin, and Pavan Muzundar as they unravel the secrets of integrating cutting-edge technology into traditional workspaces. From the undeniable value of skilled work to the art of navigating the industrial revolution with curiosity, this episode is a goldmine of insights!

Dive into our latest episode where we unravel the transformative power of AI in the modern workspace!

In this insightful episode of the Skillwork Forum, hosts Brett Elliott and Tim Raglin dive into a critical yet often overlooked aspect of the workplace - the concept of a "Force Multiplier". Brett and Tim discuss what a force multiplier is and how it can be a game-changer in the skilled trades industry. They explore both traditional and non-traditional ways to recruit the right talent and the importance of upskilling the workforce as a means of force multiplication. The hosts also share valuable insights on things to consider when upskilling your current workforce. This episode is packed with expert advice and strategies, making it a must-listen for skilled trades professionals and business leaders. Tune in to discover how you can leverage the power of force multipliers in your business.

In this insightful episode of The Skillwork Forum, titled "It's Time To Paint A New Future For the Trades," hosts Brett Elliott, President & CEO of Skillwork, and Tim Raglin, COO of Skillwork, delve into the major impacts, trends, and challenges they foresee in the skilled trades industry. Whether you're a seasoned professional, a business leader, or someone considering a career in the trades, this episode is packed with valuable insights that will help you understand the current state of the skilled trades and prepare for the future. Don't miss out on this insightful discussion about the future of the skilled trades. Watch the full episode of "It's Time To Paint A New Future For the Trades" on YouTube now. Stay ahead of the curve and elevate your career or business by tuning in. Connect, learn, and grow with the Skillwork Forum Podcast – the go-to source for all things related to skilled trades.

In this enlightening episode of The Skillwork Forum, we're joined by Ken Rusk, author of the book "Blue Collar Cash". Ken shares his journey from digging ditches to becoming a successful business owner, highlighting the value of hard work and a sense of accomplishment. We delve into the importance of vocational education and the potential of blue-collar jobs to address the skilled labor shortage. Ken also shares his insights on raising successful kids and discovering what truly matters in life. This episode is a must-watch for anyone interested in the future of the skilled trades industry and the potential of blue-collar jobs to transform lives and economies. Don't miss out on this insightful conversation with Ken Rusk. Watch the full episode on YouTube and join the discussion on the future of the skilled trades industry. Remember to like, share, and subscribe to the The Skillwork Forum for more expert insights and advice.

In this episode, we dive deeper into the world of smart manufacturing and explore the benefits, drawbacks, and ROI of implementing this technology in manufacturing. From data overload causing technology paralysis to the importance of business process improvements, we cover it all. Watch the full episode on YouTube to learn more about the benefits, drawbacks, and ROI of smart manufacturing in the industry. Don't miss out on valuable insights from industry leaders!

In this episode of The State of the 4th Industrial Revolution in Manufacturing, Brett Elliott and Tim Raglin, share their insights on the impact of smart manufacturing technology, risk mitigation, supply chain disruptions, cybersecurity, and the move towards automation. One of the key takeaways from today's discussion was the increasing adoption of smart manufacturing technology in the industry. Tim Raglin pointed out, "97% out of 1300 plus respondents said they have plans in place today to use smart manufacturing technology." This technology includes data analytics technology, AI, robotics, and machine learning, which have been noted as the top response for risk mitigation. However, as the industry moves towards automation and relies more on technology, cybersecurity becomes a growing concern. Tim Raglin noted that "manufacturing is fast becoming the number one target of ransomware." This highlights the need for companies to prioritize cybersecurity and implement measures to protect against cyber threats. Watch the full episode now to learn more about the state of the 4th industrial revolution in manufacturing and how companies can adapt to new technological advancements while mitigating risks and prioritizing employee safety and job creation.

n this episode, Brett Elliott (CEO of Skillwork) and Tim Raglin (COO of Skillwork) discuss the critical metrics that manufacturing companies should measure to achieve success. They highlight three broad categories of measurement: People, Performance, and Profit. Brett and Tim emphasize the crucial role of people in a manufacturing company and why it's essential to prioritize their well-being and upskilling. They also discuss the importance of tracking performance metrics such as Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE), Production Downtime, and Throughput, and how they impact a company's bottom line. Lastly, they touch on the traditional financial metrics that companies should measure to gauge their profitability. If you're a manufacturing company looking to improve your business operations and achieve success, this episode is a must-watch. Watch the full episode on YouTube and learn how to measure the right metrics to achieve success in manufacturing. Don't forget to subscribe and leave a comment to let us know your thoughts!

delve into the major impacts, trends, and challenges they foresee in the skilled trades industry. Whether you're a seasoned professional, a business leader, or someone considering a career in the trades, this episode is packed with valuable insights that will help you understand the current state of the skilled trades and prepare for the future. Don't miss out on this insightful discussion about the future of the skilled trades. Watch the full episode of "It's Time To Paint A New Future For the Trades" on YouTube now. Stay ahead of the curve and elevate your career or business by tuning in. Connect, learn, and grow with the Skillwork Forum Podcast – the go-to source for all things related to skilled trades.

There's a new chief dominating the workplace demographics, and this new chief goes by the name “Gen Z”! In case you haven't noticed, this new generation of workers is just built different. What that means for the workforce is that we, as leaders, can no longer do things in the ways they have always been done. So what do we do? This week on “TSWF”, hosts Tim and Brett have the honor of welcoming author and Gen Z expert, Steven Robertson, onto the show. Together they discuss what makes this generation so unique, and the mindset changes that must happen if companies want to thrive and survive in this new era of business and marketplace shifts. From valuable information about the mindset of this new generation to the necessity of changing leadership styles to accommodate them, this is an episode you won't want to miss! Main Takeaways:

In this week's episode of The Skillwork Forum, Tim and Brett continue to outline the projected trends in the trades coming in 2023. Advanced technology, the fourth industrial revolution and mental health care and awareness are three of the trends discussed in this week's episode. In the second part of today's two-part episode of The Skillwork Forum, Tim Raglin (COO of Skillwork) and Brett Elliott (President and CEO of Skillwork) discuss the remaining impacts, trends, and challenges they see coming as we enter into the 2023 labor market. How can businesses overcome potential challenges and mitigate the current changes present in today's U.S. labor and manufacturing space? Tune in to the first part of this two-part episode of “TSWF” for strategy to overcome the struggles of the rapidly changing marketplace. To hear the impact of more trends in the trades, check out the first part of the episode, “2023 Trends in the Trades - Part 1”. Main Takeaways:

The only constant in life is change—and that's never been more true than in today's rapidly changing labor market. Since the pandemic began, the U.S. labor market has seen no shortage of twists and turns—from the Great Resignation to record-breaking job losses and shutdowns. It's safe to say that doing business in a post-COVID world has been nothing short of tumultuous. With the health of the free-market being so uncertain, how can business leaders prepare for the potential pitfalls of 2023? In the first part of today's two-part episode of The Skillwork Forum, Tim Raglin (COO of Skillwork) and Brett Elliott (President and CEO of Skillwork) discuss the major impacts, trends, and challenges they see coming as we enter into 2023. How can businesses overcome potential challenges and mitigate the current changes present in today's U.S. labor and manufacturing space? Tune in to the first part of this two-part episode of “TSWF” for strategy to overcome the struggles of the rapidly changing marketplace. Main Takeaways:

Whether it's regarding technology or turnover rates in the trades industry, change has been a hot topic here on “The Skillwork Forum”. When it comes to ensuring the best probability for company success, it is critical to navigate change with strategy and planning. We've looked at how to mitigate change in the larger scope of the skilled trades industry, but how do you manage change within your own company? In this episode of “The Skillwork Forum”, hosts Tim and Brett dive deep into the psychology surrounding change and its processes. They discuss change management in depth and outline how you can successfully implement change in the workplace. The simple fact is our companies are made up of people who need to be handled with care. Check out our latest podcast episode for information on how to successfully and intentionally implement change within your organization. Business owners—you won't want to miss this! Main Takeaways: