Podcasts about skilled trades

There are pockets of the US that are struggling, other areas that are as busy as ever. What gives? We want your feedback! Text, email, comment, DM! Text the guys your ideas & feedback! Send us your feedback or topic ideas over on our social channels!Eric Aune @mechanicalhub Andy Mickelson @mick_plumbNewsletter sign up: https://bit.ly/MH_email

In this episode, Turner Construction's Drew Kerr, Vice President and General Manager of xPL Offsite, explains how xPL is redefining construction through offsite manufacturing and deep supply chain integration, starting with data centers and expanding into sectors like semiconductors, healthcare, and industrial facilities. He contrasts traditional, fragmented construction with xPL's unified model that centralizes manufacturing, supply chain, and field installation to handle unprecedented demand and labor shortages. Using a rapid 30MW data center deployment as a case study, Drew shows how close coordination, prefabrication, and early procurement decisions enabled timelines that would be impossible under conventional methods. He also discusses the limits of true “manufacturing” in construction today, xPL's use of automation and robotics, and why he believes modularization will become the dominant way we build in the next century. Highlights from their conversation include: Drew's Background at Turner and Personal Story (0:54) What xPL Offsite Does and Why It Was Created (2:02) How Exponential Party Logistics Reimagines Construction Supply Chains (4:15) Industrial Renaissance, Data Centers, and Physical Economy Bottlenecks (7:25) Why Offsite Construction Is Not Yet True Manufacturing (8:23) Case Study: 30MW “Emergency” Data Center Deployment (10:36) How Integrated Teams Beat Traditional Construction Timelines (11:06) Labor Shortage, Skilled Trades, and Bringing Work to Workers (13:25) Role of Automation, Robotics, and Smart Factory Concepts (15:50) Expanding Beyond Data Centers Into Healthcare, Sports, and Industrial (19:38) Future of Construction and Shift to Modularized Building Models (21:51) Global Modularization Vision for Turner and ACS (24:10) Closing Thoughts and Episode Wrap-Up (25:29) Dynamo Ventures is a venture firm backing founders upgrading the physical economy. As intelligence moves into critical infrastructure and technology collides with physics, industry is entering a new era of transformation - the industrial renaissance. Born from the dirt and grit of supply chains and shaped by operations, not spreadsheets, Dynamo focuses on the complex realities of building in the real world. We invest in companies transforming infrastructure, manufacturing, logistics, transportation, and the systems that power global commerce. Dynamo works closely with founders who combine ambition with a bias to action, bringing a builder mindset to venture capital through deep operational insight, systematic pressure-testing and hands-on partnership. Our purpose is simple: to back the relentless shaping the industrial renaissance. Learn more at www.dynamo.vc Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Calling all apprentices (and those training them)! One of our most listened to episodes went live back in April 2024 and still tallies downloads today so we decided it was time for a followup! We changed it up a little from our first list of 5 Things Apprentices Should Do Every Day Thanks for listening, have a great day! Text the guys your ideas & feedback! Send us your feedback or topic ideas over on our social channels!Eric Aune @mechanicalhub Andy Mickelson @mick_plumbNewsletter sign up: https://bit.ly/MH_email

Send us Fan MailKen Rusk was 15 years old when he walked through a hole in the fence behind his high school, into an industrial park, and asked a construction company what they did. Their answer: we dig ditches and fix wet, smelly basements. Ken said, “I thought I was qualified for that,” and took the job. He never went to college. In 1986, he founded Rusk Industries in Toledo, OH with six ditch diggers. Today it's a portfolio of construction companies with over 200 employees and nine figures in revenue. Wall Street Journal bestselling author of Blue-Collar Cash. Fox News contributor. Publicly endorsed by Tony Robbins. In this conversation, Ken and Josh dismantle the college lie (only 1 in 3 degrees ever get used), walk through Ken's 5-step Path, and unpack why Ken funds Trump Accounts for his employees' kids, launched a bourbon company for Gold Star families, and taught his framework to female inmates. Plus a first look at Ken's new book, Rockstars and Rainmakers.CONNECT WITH ME HERE:FacebookInstagramLinkedInTwitterTikTokYouTubeSUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST HERE:Apple PodcastsSpotifyYouTube

Send us Fan MailFrom being told he would fail without college to welding pure gold for GE Aerospace and running a nation-wide fabrication business, Josh Wolfe's story is a masterclass in blue-collar grit.  In this episode of the Welding Business Owners Podcast, Josh Wolfe (host of the Speaking of Skilled Trades podcast) sits down with Kevin to share his journey from an ADD high schooler struggling to fit into standard classrooms to building a successful career in high-stakes TIG welding and metal fabrication.  We dive deep into taking pay cuts to chase experience, surviving the absolute rock-bottom moments of business ownership, passing the trade down to his three kids, and a candid, unfiltered discussion on how AI, automation, and robotics are coming for small-town fab shops.  If you are a welder, fabricator, trade student, or blue-collar business owner looking to scale, this conversation is packed with real-world advice you can't afford to miss.  

Boortz shares a roadside experience after a blown tire introduces him to tire technicians, a tow truck driver, and a state trooper. He argues that these workers, many without college degrees, can build successful, well-paying careers while some college graduates struggle to find employment. His message: a four-year degree isn't the only path to a prosperous life, and skilled trades deserve far more respect.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Boortz shares a roadside experience after a blown tire introduces him to tire technicians, a tow truck driver, and a state trooper. He argues that these workers, many without college degrees, can build successful, well-paying careers while some college graduates struggle to find employment. His message: a four-year degree isn't the only path to a prosperous life, and skilled trades deserve far more respect.Atlanta's ONLY All Conservative News & Talk Station.: https://www.xtra1063.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode aired in August '24 and had been one of our most downloaded ever, give it a listen, we hope you enjoy it. We will be back with new episodes soon! Ever think "If only I knew then what I know now" ?We are so pumped to bring you this and the next episode with special Guests Heather Aune & Sheryl Mickelson, the obvious better halves of the MTGA team. Sheryl runs the office and a good part of the business for Mickelson Plumbing & Heating. Heather has done the books for both MH & Aune Plumbing & Heating for over a decade on top of her (former) day job. It was so cool to hear their perspectives as we consider looking back to the early days of starting our business. Text the guys your ideas & feedback! Send us your feedback or topic ideas over on our social channels!Eric Aune @mechanicalhub Andy Mickelson @mick_plumbNewsletter sign up: https://bit.ly/MH_email

Sponsors: ◦ Visit Buildertrend to schedule a demo ◦ Marvin Windows and Doors ◦ Sub-Zero Wolf Cove Showroom Phoenix ◦ CCS Registration Connect with Maria Ford: ◦ https://www.linkedin.com/in/maria-ford-658a7a2 Connect with Brad Leavitt: Website | Instagram | Facebook | Houzz | Pinterest | YouTube

Brook Laing started in the trades as a steam-fitter welder and eventually found her way into industry media, where she now helps tell the stories behind manufacturing and fabrication. In this episode, Brook shares how she got into the trades, why she left union work, and how podcasting and content creation became part of her mission to make the industry more approachable and human.What You'll LearnHow Brook went from college plans to welding and steam-fitting.Why she loved the work but still chose to pivot out of the trade.The difference between a steam-fitter and a pipe-fitter.Why layoff culture can make trade careers hard to sustain.How she got involved with the Sisterhood of the Skilled Trades.Why trade communities and apprenticeship support matter.How her podcast helps introduce new people to the trades.Why storytelling is one of the most powerful tools for recruiting and retention.How manufacturing content can focus on the people, not just the shop.What she thinks about automation, robotic welding, and the future of skilled labor.Thank you to this week's sponsor Abicor Binzel. Learn more about the xFUME Pro here ⁠https://goweld.link/abicorpod⁠ Connect With Brooke LaingLinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/brooke-laing11/⁠ Instagram: @lainggerr ⁠https://www.instagram.com/lainggerr/⁠ TikTok: @lainggerrr ⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@lainggerrr⁠Two Bolts Short Of A Flange Podcast: ⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/6pmLbiTozQOjsh4d7fun2s?si=fc6f8fc7c08d4e06⁠ YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@TwoBoltsShortofaFlange⁠ Download The Weld AppiOS: App Store ⁠https://goweld.link/AppleApp⁠ Android: Google Play ⁠https://goweld.link/Android⁠ If this show has helped your welding career, leaving a 5-star review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts helps other welders find it.#WeldingPodcast #WeldingCareer #steamfitter #twoboltsshortofaflange #WeldingEducation 

The She Builds initiative encourages young women to pursue careers in the construction industry.

Send us Fan MailTim and John go back to SkillsUSA one last time to talk with Jim Fusco, Granite State Trade School, and Scott Teson, senior VP of skilled trades, Milwaukee Tool. Heat pumps struggle in colder weather — but hybrid heat pump solutions powered by propane can deliver the comfort your customers desire. Understanding how to install these systems can help grow your business and set your services apart. Get started with a free, two-hour online course at www.propane.com/hybridSubscribe to the Appetite for Construction podcast at any of your favorite streaming channels and don't forget about the other ways to interact with the Mechanical Hub Team!Follow Plumbing Perspective IG @plumbing_perspectiveFollow Mechanical Hub IG @mechanicalhubSign up for our newsletter at www.mechanical-hub.com/enewsletterVisit our websites at www.mechanical-hub.com and www.plumbingperspective.comSend John and Tim your feedback or topic ideas: @plumbing_perspective

SBA Administrator Kelly Loeffler joins The Morning XTRA to discuss why small businesses are leading the charge in manufacturing, job creation, and economic growth. She talks about AI, trade schools, apprenticeships, and how technology is helping entrepreneurs compete and expand. Loeffler also previews Congressman Rich McCormick’s Georgia job fair and explains how the SBA is connecting businesses with workers, capital, and new opportunities.Atlanta's ONLY All Conservative News & Talk Station.: https://www.xtra1063.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hey there Voices of the Bench community, this is Trish Jones with Ivoclar. If you've been curious about fast-firing zirconia to improve efficiency but aren't convinced it can deliver predictable, high-quality results, I'd encourage you to connect with us. Our new IPS Emax Zirconia offers multiple fast-fire protocols designed to help save you valuable production time while maintaining consistent results. Time is money in every lab. Don't wait. Reach out to your local Ivoclar rep today and discover how IPS Emax Zirconia can help streamline your workflow. As full-arch dentistry continues to grow, so do the demands on today's dental laboratories. That's why Knight Dental recently launched SimplyARCH Studio, a dedicated production environment built exclusively for full-arch restorations. To support this specialized workflow, Knight invested in an XTCERA milling system and carefully evaluated multiple CAM software solutions before choosing hyperDENT. The decision came down to exceptional milling quality, minimal hand finishing, and impressive production efficiency. But what truly set hyperDENT apart was the implementation process. From the very beginning, the team provided more than software training—they shared the knowledge and experience needed to build an optimized workflow for complex full-arch cases. With proven expertise in advanced milling strategies and laboratory production, hyperDENT helped ensure SimplyARCH Studio was designed for long-term success from day one.Matt Everatt joins Elvis and Barb for a fascinating conversation that takes a deep dive into his journey through the dental laboratory industry and the story behind his book, The Invisible Profession. From discovering dental technology at 16 and specializing in maxillofacial prosthetics and orthodontics to working in hospitals, developing early sleep-apnea appliances, and nearly leaving the profession altogether, Matt's career has taken some seriously interesting turns. Eventually, he helped co-found S4S, building a successful business around sleep-apnea appliances, occlusal splints, orthodontics, and more before eventually stepping away from ownership. Matt Everatt joins Elvis and Barb for a fascinating conversation that takes a deep dive into his journey through the dental laboratory industry and the story behind his book, The Invisible Profession. From discovering dental technology at 16 and specializing in maxillofacial prosthetics and orthodontics to working in hospitals, developing early sleep-apnea appliances, and nearly leaving the profession altogether, Matt's career has taken some seriously interesting turns. Eventually, he helped co-found S4S, building a successful business around sleep-apnea appliances, occlusal splints, orthodontics, and more before eventually stepping away from ownership. But this conversation goes far beyond Matt's career. His book, The Invisible Profession, explores how the dental laboratory industry arrived at a place where technicians and laboratories are often undervalued, pushed into price competition, and expected to simply keep their heads down and produce. Matt shares his thoughts on the "million little things" that shaped the industry, the danger of becoming a "busy fool," and why laboratories need to stop competing solely on price and start becoming known for the value, expertise, and partnership they bring to the dental team. Elvis, Barb, and Matt also talk about the changing landscape of digital dentistry, AI, 3D printing, speed, service, and why the labs that embrace change and remain agile will be the ones positioned for the future. It's an honest, thought-provoking, and ultimately optimistic conversation about where the dental laboratory profession has been, where it is today, and where it can go next.Special Guest: Matt Everatt.

July 25, 2026. Steve Adubato engages three passionate voices about the skilled trades shortage, highlighting these rewarding professions as in-demand career opportunities for all. Guests:Scott Shaw, President & CEO, Lincoln Technical InstituteJudaline Cassidy, Founder of Tools & Tiaras, Plumber with Local Union No. 1 in NYCSen. Joseph Cryan (D) – NJ, Chair, Senate Higher Education … Continue reading "Building the Skilled Trades Workforce"

Episode #1405: Tesla posts record deliveries while doubling down on AI, Ford embraces Apple to make affordable EVs more compelling, and a coalition of industry giants launches a nationwide effort to solve the technician shortage Show Notes with links: ...

Crash Champions founder and CEO Matt Ebert explains how advanced vehicle technology is increasing demand for skilled collision repair workers. He discusses AI's growing role in the industry, ongoing labor shortages, and why hands-on trades remain difficult to automate.======== Schwab Network ========Empowering every investor and trader, every market day. Subscribe to the Market Minute newsletter - https://schwabnetwork.com/subscribeDownload the iOS app - https://apps.apple.com/us/app/schwab-network/id1460719185Download the Amazon Fire Tv App - https://www.amazon.com/TD-Ameritrade-Network/dp/B07KRD76C7Watch on Sling - https://watch.sling.com/1/asset/191928615bd8d47686f94682aefaa007/watchWatch on Vizio - https://www.vizio.com/en/watchfreeplus-exploreWatch on DistroTV - https://www.distro.tv/live/schwab-network/Follow us on X – https://twitter.com/schwabnetworkFollow us on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/schwabnetworkFollow us on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/schwab-network/ About Schwab Network - https://schwabnetwork.com/about

Raising Expectations with Pastor Joe Schofield, Melba Schofield, Stefanie Thayer, Dr. Craig Thayer, Dr. Paul Hall, and Ron Greer Faith, Freedom, and the Fight for America The Raising Expectations team welcomes attorney, retired Army colonel, and author Kurt Schlichter for a wide-ranging discussion on faith, American leadership, cultural change, national security, education, civic responsibility, and the role Christians can play in shaping the nation's future. Friends, We are thrilled to have our longtime friend Kurt Schlichter back with us this Monday night, to share his wisdom and enthuse us all about our great nation! He is an outstanding author, political pungent, United States Army captain, teacher at the National War College in Washington D. C. and renown lawyer. He is a leading speaker on CPAC and highly respected for his ability to powerfully present the common sense and Judeo- Christian principals upon which we stand as a nation! His books are best sellers and “WE'LL BE BACK: the fall and rise of America” has made everyone think again as we watch America rise before our eyes with President Donald Trump and his incredible Cabinet! Boldness and appropriate transparency has aided in making us proud to be Americans once again! Kurt Schlichter has value driven conservative insights that are true and continue to inspire us as a nation! You won't want to miss the show so tell your friends and tune in and watch… Guest Spotlight Kurt Schlichter returns to Raising Expectations as a respected political commentator, attorney, retired U.S. Army colonel, and bestselling author known for combining military experience, legal insight, and cultural commentary. Throughout the conversation, Kurt discusses current events through the lenses of patriotism, faith, and public service while sharing perspectives drawn from his writing career, military background, and observations of American culture. Although the conversation covers numerous political topics, it repeatedly returns to the importance of personal responsibility, moral conviction, and active civic engagement. Faith, Freedom, and the State of the Nation Pastor Joe Schofield opens the program by reaffirming the show's commitment to faith in Jesus Christ, love for America, and confidence that God continues to work in the lives of those who trust Him. After introducing the panel and welcoming returning guest Kurt Schlichter, the conversation turns toward the current condition of the nation and the challenges facing American society. Kurt describes himself as optimistic about the country's future, arguing that many Americans have become dissatisfied with existing political and cultural institutions and are seeking meaningful change. The discussion establishes a hopeful yet candid tone as the panel explores leadership, public policy, and the responsibilities of citizenship from a Christian perspective. Leadership, Faith, and Public Service One of the conversation's earliest themes centers on political leadership and personal transformation. Kurt shares his view that President Donald Trump has pursued significant policy changes by challenging assumptions about what government can and cannot accomplish. Beyond politics, he also reflects on what he believes has been a noticeable change in Trump's personal faith following the assassination attempt against him, describing it as an example of how life-changing experiences can deepen spiritual awareness. The panel discusses the distinction between identifying with religion and developing an authentic relationship with God, emphasizing Bible reading, prayer, and continued spiritual growth over religious labels alone. Throughout the exchange, the speakers encourage listeners to pursue faith as a daily relationship rather than merely a public identity. Stories Shape Culture The discussion shifts toward Kurt's work as a novelist and his belief that culture is influenced not only through politics but also through storytelling. He introduces several of his books, including his upcoming novel American Warlord, and explains why he believes conservatives and Christians should actively create fiction, entertainment, and cultural works that reflect their values instead of simply criticizing existing media. Kurt argues that many ordinary Americans who work hard, raise families, practice their faith, and contribute positively to their communities are rarely represented in modern entertainment. For him, participating in culture is another way of preserving important values and broadening public conversation. Christians and Civic Responsibility The panel repeatedly returns to the role Christians play within American society. Pastor Joe expresses concern that many believers remain disengaged from public life or become informed only shortly before elections, while Kurt encourages greater participation in civic affairs. Rather than viewing political involvement as separate from faith, the speakers suggest that informed citizenship can become an extension of personal stewardship and responsibility. They discuss voting, public discourse, and the importance of remaining engaged in issues affecting local communities and the nation while seeking to act with integrity and conviction. Ideology, Media, and Competing Worldviews As the discussion broadens, Kurt shares his concerns about socialism, ideological movements, higher education, and parts of the modern media landscape. He argues that many people naturally seek purpose and meaning, and when religious faith is absent, they may replace it with political or cultural ideologies. The panel also discusses contemporary debates surrounding identity, entertainment, journalism, and public institutions, expressing concern that some voices discourage open dialogue or promote ideas they believe conflict with biblical values. Throughout these exchanges, the hosts frequently contrast cultural trends with what they view as enduring principles rooted in Christian faith and personal accountability. National Security and America's Place in the World Drawing upon his military experience, Kurt offers an extended discussion of American foreign policy, particularly regarding Iran, China, Russia, Ukraine, and broader geopolitical strategy. He explains how diplomatic, informational, military, and economic tools can work together to accomplish long-term strategic objectives, suggesting that effective leadership requires coordinating all four rather than relying solely upon military force. The panel also considers changing international alliances, energy policy, economic pressure, and global competition, viewing these developments through the broader lens of national security and America's future role on the world stage. Education, Skilled Trades, and the Dignity of Work Another major theme focuses on education and the changing value of higher learning. Kurt questions whether many universities continue to provide practical value, expressing concern about rising student debt, ideological influence, and the growing availability of alternative forms of learning. The panel discusses vocational education, skilled trades, apprenticeships, and technical careers, emphasizing that meaningful work should never be measured solely by academic credentials. Through stories about contractors, tradespeople, military service, and everyday professions, the conversation highlights the dignity of honest labor and the importance of respecting people for the quality of their work rather than their educational pedigree. Remembering the America That Built Community The discussion becomes more personal as Kurt reflects on his childhood in California, neighborhood friendships, books, television, family life, and the experiences that shaped previous generations. While acknowledging the benefits of technological advancement, including artificial intelligence, the panel also expresses concern that some aspects of community life, childhood independence, and shared cultural experiences have become more difficult to preserve. Rather than rejecting modern technology, the speakers encourage thoughtful use of new tools while continuing to cultivate strong families, meaningful relationships, and local communities. Standing for Truth with Courage As the conversation concludes, the panel returns to the role of Christians in an increasingly divided culture. Dr. Paul Hall expresses appreciation for Kurt's optimism and willingness to speak openly about difficult issues, while the hosts encourage believers to stand firmly for truth without fear or embarrassment. Pastor Ron Greer closes the program with a prayer asking for God's protection, wisdom, and continued guidance over Kurt, his family, and his work. The episode ends by reminding listeners that faith, courage, service, and hope remain essential qualities for those seeking to strengthen both their communities and their nation.

Industrial hiring is a different animal. In this episode, Charlie Safro, Jeff Smith, and Shannon DiBenedetto dig into what companies get wrong when hiring for frontline, skilled trades, manufacturing, logistics, and supply chain roles. They cover why internal teams get overwhelmed, why job postings alone are not enough, how hiring events can either crush or completely miss, and why temp labor can quietly become a very expensive Band-Aid. They also talk through what the CS Recruiting and Hirewell partnership now makes possible: deeper industrial expertise, broader recruiting support, and a more flexible way to solve workforce problems across the business.

A few years ago, food manufacturer Land O'Lakes had a radical idea: What if it let part-time employees pick their own schedule?  In early 2022, coming out of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Arden Hills, Minnesota-based maker of dairy products and animal feeds noticed a sea change in employee priorities: people wanted flexibility.So, the company rolled out the Flex Work program for employees working 16-30 hours per week. Workers set the hours they can work, and Land O'Lakes figures out how that fits into production. Most of these positions are in operations and supply chain roles at the company's factories, but they also have positions in housekeeping, office clerking and sanitation—and no previous experience is required.The pilot project debuted at the Land O'Lakes facility in St. Joseph, Missouri, and the company said the response was "overwhelming," with more than 100 applicants in the first few days. The roles are ideal for parents being pulled in 100 different directions, college students looking to pay rent or retirees looking to stay busy. According to the company, some employees who started in Flex Work have even transitioned to full-time roles.Current positions available in the program include a Flex Production Operator in Neosho, Missouri; a Flex Housekeeper in Hillsboro, Wisconsin; a Maintenance Technician in Saint Joseph, Missouri;and a Warehouse Operator in Black River Falls, Wisconsin.According to a report in Fortune, it was a now-retired chief supply chain officer who championed the concept. Basically, the exec said the company needed to move beyond the mentality of "that can't happen in manufacturing environments."The company has some 60 manufacturing facilities in the U.S. , but plans to roll the initiative out across all 140 of its domestic locations.Land O'Lakes said that views and applications for flex roles are about 25% higher than for traditional roles, and turnover is significantly lower. Turnover among flex workers is 12 points lower than among recently hired full-time talent.While it may not make a career, Flex Work could be a solution for people looking to make a little extra cash and companies looking to fill gaps on the floor.#Manufacturing, #ManufacturingJobs, #Workforce, #Hiring, #FlexibleWork, #FlexWork, #LandOLakes, #SupplyChain, #FactoryJobs, #Operations, #SkilledTrades, #IndustrialJobs, #Careers, #FutureOfWork, #MadeInAmerica

Simpro Group CEO Fred Voccola argues that the biggest AI opportunities are emerging in the skilled trades, where small and midsize businesses are using digital workers to automate back-office tasks and improve profitability. He explains why entrepreneurial companies are leading AI adoption today and why robotics could begin transforming field service operations over the next several years.======== Schwab Network ========Empowering every investor and trader, every market day. Subscribe to the Market Minute newsletter - https://schwabnetwork.com/subscribeDownload the iOS app - https://apps.apple.com/us/app/schwab-network/id1460719185Download the Amazon Fire Tv App - https://www.amazon.com/TD-Ameritrade-Network/dp/B07KRD76C7Watch on Sling - https://watch.sling.com/1/asset/191928615bd8d47686f94682aefaa007/watchWatch on Vizio - https://www.vizio.com/en/watchfreeplus-exploreWatch on DistroTV - https://www.distro.tv/live/schwab-network/Follow us on X – https://twitter.com/schwabnetworkFollow us on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/schwabnetworkFollow us on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/schwab-network/ About Schwab Network - https://schwabnetwork.com/about

Brent Garrett shares his journey in the trades, discussing early challenges and pivotal lessons from his father. He highlights the importance of sales, strategies for profitability, and the evolution of leadership. Brent emphasizes the risks of stagnation, personal struggles, financial oversight, and building a strong company culture. He explores the "messy middle" growth phase and his investment in technology. Brent also discusses his coaching initiatives, insights from his book, and offers advice to his younger self, stressing the importance of helping others achieve their dreams.

The guys revisit a topic they've been getting a lot of feedback from. It started with a recent MTGA episode titled “Eric Hates Combi Boilers”.In this episode, Eric and Andy discuss the pros and cons of combi boilers, common issues, applications, and backup strategies for heating systems. They share insights on system reliability, application scenarios, and practical tips for homeowners and professionals.Text the guys your ideas & feedback! Get a free 2 hour online course at www.propane.com/hybrid Send us your feedback or topic ideas over on our social channels!Eric Aune @mechanicalhub Andy Mickelson @mick_plumbNewsletter sign up: https://bit.ly/MH_email

Skilled trades employers are fighting a two-front battle right now: a widening talent gap and a growing shortage of “people skills”. Deloitte projects U.S. manufacturing alone could need roughly 3.8 million new workers between 2024 and 2033—and warns that about 1.9 million of those jobs could go unfilled if the skills and applicant gap persists. At the same time, LinkedIn's 2026 Skills on the Rise report notes that communication and other people skills are among the fastest-growing capabilities employers are seeking today.So what happens when the technical work is largely standardized, but the human side of the job is far less predictable? And how do leaders build teams that can both fix the problem and earn trust while doing it?That's the core question explored in this episode of Straight Outta Crumpton, hosted by Greg Crumpton, featuring Josh Zolin, CEO of Windy City Equipment. The episode covers Zolin's unusual path from Hollywood stunt work to running a service business, why soft skills are now a competitive advantage in the trades, and how “career-path clarity” (a real roadmap, not vague promises) can change hiring and retention outcomes.The main topics of discussion…From stuntman to CEO: Zolin explains how “performance under pressure” and precision—where an inch can mean life or death—translated directly into leading a real-world service operation and developing credibility with technicians.Soft skills aren't “extra”—they're the job: The pair unpack why customer interaction, communication, and leadership behaviors often matter as much (or more) than wrench-turning, especially as teams get younger and customers expect better experiences.The roadmap advantage: Zolin shares how showing recruits a visual, leveled career path—skills, expectations, shadowing, progression, and pay bands—became a magnet for talent because it answers the question: “Where am I headed, and how do I win here?”Josh Zolin is the CEO of Windy City Equipment, a multi-state commercial foodservice repair company and three-time Inc. 5000 honoree, where he rose from field technician to executive leadership after years working directly alongside service teams. He is also the founder of Blue Is The New White Academy, an online training platform focused on developing leadership, communication, and business skills within the skilled trades workforce. In addition, Zolin hosts the podcast Everything They Don't Tell You, where he speaks with entrepreneurs and industry leaders about business growth, leadership, and the realities of building sustainable companies.

In this episode, Dr. Susan Madsen examines key findings from the newly released snapshot "Utah Women and Skilled Trades." This research brief explores national and statewide demand for skilled‑trades jobs, trends in women's participation, and how employment and wages compare across occupations in Utah and the U.S. The conversation also highlights education and training pathways—particularly for young women—and outlines strategies to strengthen women's representation in Utah's skilled‑trades and construction workforce.Dr. Madsen is joined by two leaders in this space—Concetta Defa and Dr. April Townsend—to unpack the data, discuss current challenges, and explore opportunities to support women pursuing careers in the trades.GuestsConcetta Defa  Project Consultant, Center for Energy Workforce DevelopmentPresident, Utah Women in TradesDr. April Townsend  Research Fellow, Utah Women & Leadership ProjectCo‑Author, Utah Women and Skilled Trades  Download the full snapshot HERE.Visit the Utah Women & Leadership Project website.Share this episode with colleagues, educators, employers, or anyone interested in strengthening women's participation in Utah's skilled‑trades workforce.Follow the podcast and leave a review to help others discover the show!Support the show

The skilled trades are facing unprecedented challenges—and incredible opportunities. In Episode 44 of The People Business, host Frank Favaro sits down with Dan Sublett, President of J.W. Didado Electric, to discuss what it takes to lead one of the region's premier electrical contracting companies while preparing the next generation of skilled professionals.Dan shares his perspective on leadership, developing people, creating a culture employees want to be part of, and why investing in training and mentorship is essential for the future of the construction and electrical industries. The conversation also explores workforce shortages, attracting young talent to the trades, embracing innovation, and maintaining a commitment to quality in an ever-changing business environment.In This Episode You'll Learn:Why the skilled trades offer incredible career opportunitiesHow great leaders build strong, people-first company culturesThe importance of mentorship and workforce developmentStrategies for attracting and retaining top talentHow innovation and leadership are shaping the future of the electrical industryWhether you're a business owner, contractor, executive, trades professional, or someone considering a career in the skilled trades, this episode delivers valuable insights on leadership, culture, and building organizations that stand the test of time.

Two conversations. One theme: workers fighting for what they deserve — and winning when they stand together. First, IAM Union retired International President Tom Buffenbarger joins as the independent labor voice to cover three urgent stories. A Washington Post-covered study reveals the United States spends just $4,000 on average training a skilled tradesperson against a needed investment of approximately $50,000 — and calls for a $9 billion infusion into trades training programs now, as AI-driven infrastructure expansion creates a surge in demand for exactly the workers whose apprenticeship programs were gutted, starting with Jack Welch's GE. Buffenbarger also discusses the IAM District 776 Lockheed Martin contract ratification, delivering historic wage increases for 5,000 Fort Worth workers who build the nation's most advanced fighter aircraft. And he weighs in on the Faster Labor Contracts Act passing the House, using Amazon's Staten Island workers — organized in 2022 with no contract four years later — as Exhibit A for why it matters. Then, SEIU Local 1021 Chapter President Barbra Lynn Hamilton and Union Steward Shelly Martin describe a contract fight at Vacaville Unified School District that was about far more than wages. Workplace violence reports jumped from 67 to 266 in a single year — a figure that remains an undercount because management discouraged filings. A Cal/OSHA investigation is now underway. Paraprofessionals and behavior assistants who support special needs students are going unfilled while the district ends the year 31% over budget and hires more administrators. After 200-plus members showed up to a board meeting with a strike vote, the district found money it had claimed did not exist. A two-year contract has been signed. The fight continues. Visit goiam.org for IAM Union updates and seiu1021.org for more from SEIU Local 1021.

In this episode, Madelyn O'Farrell talks with Celadyne founder and CEO Gary Ong about how a new membrane material can unlock the full potential of electrochemistry for hydrogen, long-duration energy storage, and critical material separations. Gary shares his journey from PhD researcher to startup founder after big corporates passed on his invention, then explains how Celadyne's membrane dramatically reduces hydrogen crossover, boosting fuel-cell durability and cutting critical materials in electrolyzers. They dive into the grid-capacity crunch facing hyperscalers, why hydrogen plus electrolyzers and fuel cells makes sense at 50–100+ MW scale, and how salt-cavern storage enables multi-day and even week-long clean power from solar. Gary also unpacks the geopolitical race over hydrogen technology between the U.S. and China, the strategic role of hydrogen for defense and fuel logistics, and closes by arguing that the real constraint to building next-generation energy and AI infrastructure in the U.S. is workforce development and the shortage of skilled trades. Highlights from their conversation include: Gary's Journey From PhD to Energy Tech Founder (0:44) What Celadyne Does and Why Electrochemistry Matters (2:11) Reinventing Membranes and Unlocking New Markets (4:54) Grid Capacity, Hyperscalers, and Long Duration Storage (7:14) Electrolyzers Plus Fuel Cells for Multi Day Energy (10:45) Why Power Price Matters Less Than Compute Productivity (14:21) Geopolitics, China, and The Hydrogen Technology Race (15:29) Hydrogen's Role in U.S. Energy Mix and Resiliency (19:59) Defense Use Cases, Submarines, and Synthetic Fuel (20:56) Air Force Funding and Early Defense Partnerships (25:27) Workforce Development as the Real Infrastructure Bottleneck (26:58) Closing Thoughts on Reindustrialization and Skilled Trades (28:58) Dynamo Ventures is a venture firm backing founders upgrading the physical economy. As intelligence moves into critical infrastructure and technology collides with physics, industry is entering a new era of transformation - the industrial renaissance. Born from the dirt and grit of supply chains and shaped by operations, not spreadsheets, Dynamo focuses on the complex realities of building in the real world. We invest in companies transforming infrastructure, manufacturing, logistics, transportation, and the systems that power global commerce. Dynamo works closely with founders who combine ambition with a bias to action, bringing a builder mindset to venture capital through deep operational insight, systematic pressure-testing and hands-on partnership. Our purpose is simple: to back the relentless shaping the industrial renaissance. Learn more at www.dynamo.vc. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Billions of dollars in AI investment are reshaping the American economy, and the workers who will physically build that future aren't coming out of four-year universities. They're being trained at career schools like Midwest Technical Institute, where Founder and CEO Brian Huff has spent decades preparing skilled tradespeople for the jobs that keep the country running. But cultural bias against the trades is holding back the pipeline of talent America urgently needs. Huff joins host Jason Altmire to make the case that hands-on careers deserve the same respect as traditional degrees and explains what higher ed leaders can do right now to change that. To learn more about Career Education Colleges & Universities, visit our website.

June 9, 2026: Meta is investing $115 million into America's Workforce Academy to train electricians, welders, plumbers, fiber technicians, and other skilled tradespeople for the AI infrastructure boom. This isn't charity, it's a talent pipeline for the data centers, wiring, fiber, and physical systems AI depends on. Then I get into Anthropic's release of Claude Fable 5, its most powerful publicly available AI model yet, and what it means for trust, accuracy, pricing, and accountability as AI moves deeper into business operations.

Send us Fan MailAI is getting louder, faster, and more impressive by the week and that can make kids wonder what's left for humans to do. We wanted to bring a calmer, more real-world answer: the future still needs people who can build, fix, and make things when life breaks in unpredictable ways.I'm joined by Archie D. Nettles, Jr., creator of Trades to the Rescue and the TradesTopolis universe. He writes kids as the heroes of infrastructure, the ones who solve the problems that actually keep homes and cities working. We talk about what “skilled trades” really means, why plumbers, electricians, HVAC techs, carpenters, and mechanics are often the unsung heroes, and why these careers deserve the same early attention kids give to astronauts and doctors.Then we get into the AI question everyone asks: can robots really do these jobs? Archie explains why dexterity, tight spaces, and human trust make many trade tasks hard to automate, especially when you need help at 9 p.m. on a Sunday. We also flip the script to show how AI can be a teammate: faster planning, parts lookup, real-time estimates, better customer answers, and safer work with augmented reality that helps visualize what's behind a wall or how electrical currents flow.If your kid loves Legos, inventing, fixing toys, cooking, or asking “how does that work,” this is a confidence boost and a roadmap. Subscribe, share with a family who's thinking about careers, and leave a review so more kids can hear that there's more than one way to be smart.Resources:Follow Torque and Tori's AdventureGet the book.Follow on Instagram Support the showHey parents and teachers, if you want to stay on top of the AI news shaping your kids' world, subscribe to our weekly AI for Kids Weekly newsletter:https://aiforkidsweekly.beehiiv.com/Help us become the #1 podcast for AI for Kids, parents, teachers, and families.Like our content? patreon.com/AiDigiTalesGet or gift the book “AI… Meets… AI”Social Media & Contact: Website: www.aidigitales.comEmail: contact@aidigitales.comFollow Us: InstagramBooks on Amazon or Free AI WorksheetsListen, rate, and subscribe! Apple PodcastsAmazon MusicSpotifyYouTubeOther

Josephine Sindani is the Founder and CEO of JS Group, a construction and infrastructure company based in Ontario, Canada, and the Founder of the Black Enterprise & Trades Network (BETN). Her work focuses on expanding access to skilled trades, workforce development, and entrepreneurship.Josephine's journey into construction began during a challenging period in her life as a single mother navigating housing instability and rebuilding her life. Entering an industry where women are significantly underrepresented, she built her experience from the ground up and eventually founded her own company.Today, she combines entrepreneurship with advocacy by creating pathways for underrepresented communities to enter the skilled trades and infrastructure industries. She also speaks about resilience, motherhood, leadership, and the importance of setting boundaries—an idea she explores in her developing book concept The Power of Saying No.Contact Josephine Sindani:• JS Group, my construction company focused on building and infrastructure projects.• The Black Enterprise & Trades Network (BETN), which focuses on expanding access to skilled trades and workforce development opportunities.• My upcoming book concept “The Power of Saying No,” which explores boundaries, resilience, and leadership through motherhood and entrepreneurship.Instagram:@_jsgroup@constructionbeaLinkedIn:Josephine SindaniCompany:JS GroupBETNDr. Kimberley LinertSpeaker, Author, Broadcaster, Mentor, Trainer, Behavioral OptometristEvent Planners- I am available to speak at your event. Here is my media kit: https://brucemerrinscelebrityspeakers.com/portfolio/dr-kimberley-linert/To book Dr. Linert on your podcast, television show, conference, corporate training or as an expert guest please email her at incrediblelifepodcast@gmail.com or Contact Bruce Merrin at Bruce Merrin's Celebrity Speakers at merrinpr@gmail.com702.256.9199Host of the Podcast Series: Incredible Life Creator PodcastAvailable on...Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/incredible-life-creator-with-dr-kimberley-linert/id1472641267Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6DZE3EoHfhgcmSkxY1CvKf?si=ebe71549e7474663 and on 9 other podcast platformsAuthor of Book: "Visualizing Happiness in Every Area of Your Life"Get on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4cmTOMwWebsite: https://linktr.ee/DrKimberleyLinertThe Great Discovery eLearning platform: https://thegreatdiscovery.com/kimberleyl

In this week's episode, host and NewDEAL CEO Debbie Cox Bultan speaks with Jason Altmire and Riley Burr, authors of the recently published book, Trade Up: Why the Future Belongs to Skilled Trades and How Career Education is Transforming the Workforce. Their conversation touches on how skilled workers will help power the infrastructure of the AI revolution, and what is keeping people from accessing trade schools and alternative career paths that can provide immense opportunities in today's economy. Tune in to learn more about the future of skilled trades.  Links Mentioned in Today's Episode: career.org  tradeupbook.com  IN TODAY'S EPISODE:  • [01:30] An introduction to today's guests and topic of discussion. • [02:50] Defining the problem: the gap between jobs and skills. • [05:12] Riley unpacks the scope of the skills gap. • [06:30] How AI is impacting the issue and their thoughts on what might happen in the future. • [11:20] They pinpoint the barriers to getting more kids onto the trades-career path. • [13:40] What students might experience if they pursue an education at a trade school. • [17:00] They discuss other paths that exist to close the gap, like apprenticeships. • [21:00] What we can learn from Switzerland regarding apprenticeships. • [22:30] The role trade unions play. • [23:00] What policymakers can do to create more access and opportunities for trade education. • [27:47] How policymakers can respond to what Gen Z wants. • [29:20] Concluding thoughts from our guests on today's topic of conversation.

When Jack Clark talks about building 180 Water Franchising, he focuses on one core idea: creating a replicable model in an industry that has never had one. The water well business has always been built around owner-operators — small crews, no national presence, and a retiring workforce with no clear succession path. Jack saw that gap and built the first franchise in the industry to fill it. In this episode of the DealQuest Podcast, Corey Kupfer sits down with Jack Clark, founder and owner of 180 Water Franchising, to discuss what it actually takes to franchise a skilled trades business from the ground up — and why this particular market is uniquely positioned for franchise growth. Jack breaks down the full investment and fee structure for franchisees, from the approximately $250,000 startup cost covering a fully stocked service truck to the 6% gross sales royalty, 2% brand fund, and $45,000 franchise fee. He explains why the first franchisee in each new state gets that fee waived, and why suppliers are set up with 90-day terms to ease early operations. The conversation also covers the internal dynamics of running a franchise network, including Jack's weekly Thursday calls with all franchisees, why the direction of learning inside the network has shifted from franchisor to franchisees, and what he calls the "stupid rule policy" — the principle that if a rule has to exist, the underlying system needs to change. Corey and Jack also discuss the emotional and financial reality of investing ahead of growth, including the bittersweet experience of outgrowing your original banker and building an entirely new team to support the next level of the business. This episode is packed with practical insights for entrepreneurs considering franchising as a growth vehicle, skilled trades business owners wondering whether their operation has a replicable system inside it, and anyone evaluating franchise investment opportunities in industries outside the traditional food and service categories. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN Why the water well industry is structurally positioned for franchise growth right now How Jack identified the moment his business became genuinely franchisable The full investment, fee structure, and territory model for 180 Water franchisees Why most franchisees stop worrying about having enough work within their first thirty days What the "stupid rule policy" means in practice and why it matters for franchisee satisfaction How investing ahead of growth temporarily dips profits — and why that's unavoidable Why being first in an untapped industry is a competitive moat, not a warning sign THE FIRST FRANCHISE IN THE WATER WELL INDUSTRY Jack confirmed it directly in this conversation: "No one's ever franchised the water well industry. I think a lot of guys have talked about it, but it's one of those things that until you really start to unfold it, you don't really realize how many layers there are to it." 180 Water now operates in five states with ten franchisees and is expanding nationally. When demand outpaced their Texas truck supplier, Jack didn't accept the bottleneck — he started manufacturing his own service trucks under the PumpEx Voice brand, turning a supply constraint into an entirely new business line. FOR MORE ON THIS EPISODE: https://www.coreykupfer.com/blog/jackclark FOR MORE ON JACK CLARK Company: https://180waterfranchise.com FOR MORE ON COREY KUPFER https://www.linkedin.com/in/coreykupfer/ https://www.coreykupfer.com/ Corey Kupfer is an expert strategist, negotiator, and dealmaker with more than 35 years of professional deal-making and negotiating experience. Corey is a successful entrepreneur, attorney, consultant, author, and professional speaker deeply passionate about deal-driven growth. He is also the creator and host of the DealQuest Podcast. Get deal-ready with the DealQuest Podcast with Corey Kupfer, where entrepreneurs and business leaders share insights, challenges, and success stories around deal-driven growth strategies. The show covers mergers and acquisitions, capital raising, strategic alliances, joint ventures, franchising, and more. Episode Highlights with Timestamps [00:00:00] - Introduction: Jack Clark and 180 Water Franchising [00:04:08] - Buying a drill rig sophomore year of college and never looking back [00:09:24] - Running four drill rigs and thirty-five employees — and being miserable [00:19:45] - Finding the first franchisee through Ranch World Ads [00:21:25] - Ten franchisees across five states and manufacturing their own trucks [00:27:37] - Why concerns about getting enough work disappear within the first thirty days[00:29:57] - Staffing ahead of growth and building a whole new team [00:46:45] - The "stupid rule policy" and why Jack would have been a terrible franchisee Guest Bio Jack Clark is the founder and owner of 180 Water Franchising, the first and only water well franchise company in the United States. After scaling the business to four drill rigs and thirty-five employees, he recognized that the pump service side of his operation had a genuinely replicable system — and launched 180 Water Franchising to bring it to the industry. 180 Water Franchising now operates in five states with ten franchisees and is expanding nationally. Jack also founded PumpEx Voice, a manufacturing company producing service trucks for the franchise network. Host Bio Corey Kupfer is an expert strategist, negotiator, and dealmaker with more than 35 years of professional deal-making and negotiating experience. Corey is a successful entrepreneur, attorney, consultant, author, and professional speaker deeply passionate about deal-driven growth. He is the creator and host of the DealQuest Podcast. Related Episodes: Episode 333 - Greg Mohr: Franchising as a Path to Financial Freedom and Wealth Building Episode 329 - Cliff Nonnenmacher: How Franchise Brokers Evaluate Systems and Match BuyersEpisode 330 - Pete Mohr: Building Enterprise Value and Exit Readiness in a Service Business Keywords/Tags: water well franchise, 180 Water Franchising, Jack Clark, how to franchise a skilled trades business, franchising a service business, blue collar franchise opportunity, skilled trades franchise, franchise investment, franchise fee structure, water well industry, franchise model for entrepreneurs, franchisee success, service business scaling, first franchise in an industry, PumpEx Voice, franchise system design, franchise territory, home services franchise, trades business growth

Hey MTGA fans, we're excited for you to meet a good friend of ours, olease give it a listen! Mark Wille shares his journey from childhood in construction to becoming a leader in building science and education. Discover his insights on trades, education, leadership, and his innovative children's book series that aims to inspire the next generation of builders.Key TopicsJourney from childhood in construction to industry leaderThe importance of trades and vocational educationInnovative approaches to inspiring youth in constructionBuilding science and energy efficiency advancementsLeadership, mentorship, and community impactText the guys your ideas & feedback! Send us your feedback or topic ideas over on our social channels!Eric Aune @mechanicalhub Andy Mickelson @mick_plumbNewsletter sign up: https://bit.ly/MH_email

This conversation explores the profound impact of AI and automation on the future of work, economy, and society. Featuring Martin Ford, author of 'Rise of the Robots,' the discussion covers technological progress, economic implications, policy ideas like universal basic income, and the evolving nature of jobs in an AI-driven world.Key TopicsImpact of AI on employment and economyPotential of universal basic income as a solutionDifferences between past technological revolutions and AIThe evolution from physical robots to AI software agentsJobs most vulnerable to automation and AIChapters04:14 The Impact of Technological Revolutions on Employment10:40 The Shift from Physical to Intellectual Automation12:16 The Debate: Replacement vs. Augmentation of Jobs18:01 Economic Implications of Job Displacement21:00 Exploring Solutions: Universal Basic Income and Beyond24:08 The Awakening of Economists25:12 Historical Perspectives on Automation28:27 Navigating the Future Job Market32:57 The Role of Skilled Trades in an AI World38:13 The Alien Thought Experiment42:17 The Future of AI and Its Implications44:14 The Rise of Automation and Its Impact45:14 AI as a Digital Workforce45:38 The Shifting Landscape of Work46:08 Questioning the Future of Automation and AIFollow Martin Ford onX (https://x.com/MFordFuture) Book (https://amzn.to/4vluX3N)Follow Breaking Math onSubstack (https://breakingmath.substack.com/)X (https://x.com/breakingmathpod)Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/breakingmathmedia/)Bluesky (https://bsky.app/profile/breakingmath.bsky.social)Website (https://www.breakingmath.io/)YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/@BreakingMathPod)Follow Noah onInstagram (https://www.instagram.com/profnoahgian/)X (https://x.com/ProfNoahGian)Bluesky (https://bsky.app/profile/profnoahgian.bsky.social)Follow Autumn onX (https://x.com/1autumn_leaf)Bluesky (https://bsky.app/profile/1autumnleaf.bsky.social)Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/1autumnleaf/)Substack (https://substack.com/@1autumnleaf)email: breakingmathpodcast@gmail.com

Julia Regier is a policy and research manager at MIT's Stone Center on Inequality and Shaping the Future of Work, where she focuses on workforce and policy impacts. Her path here was anything but straight, from studying philosophy at Wellesley to an MBA at Yale to translating dense economics research for people who don't speak economics. We talk about what the data shows for workers without college degrees (spoiler: it's not great, and it's been getting worse since 1980), why the self-checkout AI surveillance story is a perfect case study in automation gone wrong, and what it would take to redirect AI development toward something that works for workers, not just around them. We also get into the market failure at the heart of how AI is being built, why a handful of people setting the vision for all of us is a problem, and what policy levers could shift things. Julia also makes the moral case, loud and clear, for a living wage, and we're here for it. Chapters 00:00 - Intro - Felicia and Rachel talk local politics, civic assemblies, and more 20:28 - Welcome Julia! Her Nonlinear Path: Philosophy, Recruiting & Landing at MIT 25:00 - Worker Ownership, Co-ops & Why It's Harder Than It Sounds 29:35 - Job Quality for Workers Without College Degrees: What the Data Shows 37:00 - AI Surveillance, Self-Checkout & the Annoyance Factor 43:45 - Taking the Long View: Policy Impacts & the Case for Investing in Children 49:40 - Who's Setting the Vision for AI (and Why That's a Problem) 54:26 - Pro-Worker AI: Policy Levers That Could Actually Change Course 62:00 - Gender, Diversity & Who's Missing from the Research 65:20 - If You Could Change One Thing + Closing Thoughts Visit us at InclusionGeeks.com to stay up to date on all the ways you can make the workplace work for everyone! Check out Inclusion Geeks Academy and InclusionGeeks.com/podcast for the code to get a free mini course.

Christian Spell, a recent high school graduate and SkillsUSA National Officer, joins Jay to share how a serious injury redirected his path—straight into automotive class and SkillsUSA. He opens up about competing, leading, and developing the professional skills most techs never learn in a shop.Watch the video recordingAbout the EpisodeHost: Jay Goninen, WrenchWay, jayg@wrenchway.comGuest: Christian Spell, SkillsUSA, cspell@skillsusanationalofficer.orgLinks & ResourcesGet notified of new episodes --> Join our email list2026 SkillsUSA National Leadership & Skills Conference (NLSC) June 1–5Join the ASE Connects CommunityASE Connects brings shops, dealerships, and schools together in one structured network to strengthen the technician pipeline. By making it easier to connect, collaborate, and support students through job shadows, internships, and classroom engagement, ASE Connects helps schools build stronger programs and helps shops develop a more consistent, local source of future technicians. Learn more:ASE Connects Memberships for Shops & DealersASE Connects Memberships for Schools (Free!)Connect with us on social:FacebookInstagramXLinkedInYouTubeTikTok

Sponsors: ◦ Visit Buildertrend to schedule a demo ◦ Marvin Windows and Doors ◦ Sub-Zero Wolf Cove Showroom Phoenix Connect with Josh Zolin:  ◦ https://joshzolin.com Connect with Brad Leavitt: Website | Instagram | Facebook | Houzz | Pinterest | YouTube

In this inspiring and forward-thinking episode recorded live at the 2026 National HVAC Education Conference, we sit down with Greg Crumpton of Service Logic to explore the growing momentum behind skilled trades careers and why HVAC is finally getting the attention it deserves. From AI and data centers to mentorship and workforce development, Greg shares powerful insights on how the trades are evolving — and why the next generation is beginning to see them in a whole new light.We explore:• Why the skilled labor shortage has become one of the biggest conversations in the country• How AI, data centers and advanced technology are reshaping HVAC careers• The importance of exposing young people to the opportunities within the trades• Why hands-on, kinesthetic learning is critical for workforce development• The role social media and personal branding play in attracting the next generation• How mentorship and one-on-one conversations can change someone's career path• Why the trades are becoming more respected, innovative and financially rewarding than ever before• The balance between advancing technology and maintaining human connectionGreg also shares stories from his outreach efforts with students, parents and young professionals, offering practical advice for educators, contractors and industry leaders looking to inspire future technicians and tradespeople.Whether you're an HVAC professional, educator, student or someone curious about the future of skilled trades, this episode is packed with insight, encouragement and real-world perspective.Learn more at https://www.gregcrumpton.com.#HVAC #SkilledTrades #WorkforceDevelopment #ServiceLogic #HVACCareers #ESCO #ESCOInstitute #Mentorship #DataCenters-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

In this episode, Madelyn O'Farrell speaks with Santosh Sankar about the broken skilled trades pipeline and its impact on America's push to reindustrialize. Santosh traces the problem back to the 1983 “A Nation at Risk” report and subsequent policy shifts that de-emphasized vocational education, fueled stigma around trades, and dismantled employer-school partnerships. He highlights looming shortages in critical industrial roles such as welders, pipefitters, millwrights, industrial electricians, and CNC machinists, noting that most current hiring is just replacing retirees and that training timelines make quick fixes impossible. The conversation explores why these industrial trades are hard to automate, the cultural and structural barriers to attracting new talent, and the urgent need for employer-led, modernized vocational training models—potentially even “vocational training as a service”—to close the skills gap and unlock the promise of America's industrial renaissance. Highlights from their conversation include: Historical Roots of the Skills Trade Pipeline Crisis (0:26) How 1980s Education Policy Undermined Vocational Trades (1:09) Optics, Stigma, and Cultural Bias Against Skilled Trades (5:30) The Big 5 Industrial Trades Driving Reindustrialization (6:28) Aging Workforce, Replacement Demand, and Automation Limits (7:53) Rethinking Vocational Ed Capacity, Equipment, and Instruction (11:30) Role of Employers in Rebuilding Training and Apprenticeships (15:28) Vertically Integrated Training Models and Credentialing (15:50) Investment Case and “Vocational Training as a Service” (19:04) Regional Labor Constraints and Final Thoughts on Opportunity (21:27) Dynamo Ventures is a venture firm backing founders upgrading the physical economy. As intelligence moves into critical infrastructure and technology collides with physics, industry is entering a new era of transformation - the industrial renaissance. Born from the dirt and grit of supply chains and shaped by operations, not spreadsheets, Dynamo focuses on the complex realities of building in the real world. We invest in companies transforming infrastructure, manufacturing, logistics, transportation, and the systems that power global commerce. Dynamo works closely with founders who combine ambition with a bias to action, bringing a builder mindset to venture capital through deep operational insight, systematic pressure-testing and hands-on partnership. Our purpose is simple: to back the relentless shaping the industrial renaissance. Learn more at www.dynamo.vc Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

For women working in skilled trades, running into someone who knows what the work feels like doesn't happen every day, Sisterhood of Trades was founded to build that connection. Through platforms like Discord, LinkedIn and TikTok, the community is creating a space where women in the industry can connect with peers, share opportunities, find mentorship and grow their careers. Recorded live from The Manufacturing Exchange at ARTISAN works in Rochester, NY, for the second time hosting the podcast, Chris sits down with CEO Nush Ahmed, and Chief Strategy Officer Brooke Laing to talk about how their fast growing community is supporting women working across machining, pipe welding, mechanics, scaffolding, ship fitting and other areas of industry. Together, they run through how an informal and unnamed Snapchat group has evolved into an active network connecting tradeswomen across skillsets and regions. They also talk about the younger generation's approach to networking, and Nush and Brooke explain why sharing the truth of industrial work on social media always lands with a modern audience. For manufacturers thinking about workforce development, leaders trying to better engage women in industry, or those looking to understand how modern trade communities are forming and growing, this episode offers a look at how one fast-growing organization is strengthening connection across the skilled trades. In this episode, find out: Why Sisterhood of Trades was first formed around the reality that many women in trades are still the only woman on their team or in their shop How the early idea grew from a Snapchat group to a structured and organized Discord-based community providing support and connection How the community connects tradeswomen across different roles, skillsets, regions and life stage so they can learn from like-minded people and access opportunities How Nush Ahmed's path from CNC operating to marketing and enablement shows the career mobility that is promoted through the organization Why Brooke Laing believes showing real life day to day content on social media platforms encourages both participation and retention in the trade industry How taking a modern approach to outreach and engagement performs better than more traditional methods for increasing interest in the trades How mentorship inside the community works, from students making decisions, to career transitions and progression within the skilled trades Enjoying the show? Please leave us a review here. Even one sentence helps. It's feedback from Manufacturing All-Stars like you that keeps us going! Tweetable Quotes: “Our whole thing is that we're the largest interactive group chat for women in the trades by women in the trades.” - Brooke Laing, Chief Strategy Officer “We're trying to show the real side of the industry. We don't sugarcoat anything. If you want people to come into the industry and stay, you have to show them what the real world is really like.” Brooke Laing, Chief Strategy Officer “Our members are really great. They have built their own relationships with each other, and that was the whole goal with our Discord server. It wasn't just to elevate ourselves and talk about what we do.” - Nush Ahmed, CEO “You really have to listen to your people. I think people are sick and tired of seeing the social media posts and not seeing action. When we talk about something to our members, most likely they'll see it in the next week in an article or on a podcast.” - Nush Ahmed, CEO Links & mentions: Sisterhood of Trades, bringing together women in different trades from all over the world to make connections, share advice, and promote stories and experiences Fathom Digital Manufacturing, Precision Manufacturing, Speed & Scalability – All Under One Roof…Leverage the industry's most comprehensive suite of 25+ advanced manufacturing technologies Make sure to visit http://manufacturinghappyhour.com for detailed show notes and a full list of resources mentioned in this episode. Stay Innovative, Stay Thirsty.

In this weekend's episode, three segments from this past week's Washington Journal. First: A discussion with Bipartisan Policy Center tax policy director Andrew Lautz about President Trump's proposal to pause the federal gas tax. We'll talk about potential impacts on consumers and tax revenue. Then: We chat with former Congressman Jason Altmire- President & CEO of Career Education Colleges and Universities – about the role of career education and the skilled trades in today's economy. Finally: Cato Institute's Tad DeHaven discusses the Trump administration taking equity stakes in private companies and concerns about the federal stock holdings. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Antonio Maldonado and Jake Martin are recruiters for the Service Technician Education Program (STEP) at BMW North America—and they go way beyond just recruiting. In this episode they break down how STEP works for automotive and collision students, what hands-on training from day one actually looks like, and how BMW is nurturing the next generation of technicians from first contact to career.During this episode we experienced some technical difficulties — we apologize for any inconvenience this may cause while listening.Watch the video recordingAbout the EpisodeHost: Jay Goninen, WrenchWay, jayg@wrenchway.comGuests: Antonio Maldonado, BMW North America, antonio.maldonado@bmwna.comJake Martin, BMW North America, jake.martin@bmwna.comLinks & ResourcesGet notified of new episodes --> Join our email listGet Started with TruVideo's Education Program for SchoolsJoin the ASE Connects CommunityASE Connects brings shops, dealerships, and schools together in one structured network to strengthen the technician pipeline. By making it easier to connect, collaborate, and support students through job shadows, internships, and classroom engagement, ASE Connects helps schools build stronger programs and helps shops develop a more consistent, local source of future technicians. Learn more:ASE Connects Memberships for Shops & DealersASE Connects Memberships for Schools (Free!)Connect with us on social:FacebookInstagramXLinkedInYouTubeTikTok

Episode 340 of The Business Development Podcast features a powerful conversation with Manja Horner, founder of Boost LD, on the hidden skilled trades crisis happening across North America. As experienced tradespeople retire, companies are losing decades of knowledge, systems, instincts, and expertise that were never properly documented or passed down. Kelly and Manja dive deep into workforce development, retention, onboarding, leadership, and why the future of the trades depends on capturing and transferring knowledge before it disappears forever.This episode also explores how AI is changing the future of workforce training and why companies need to rethink how they develop people. From building internal “YouTube style” knowledge systems to creating better onboarding and career development processes, Manja shares practical strategies that can dramatically improve retention, performance, and long-term growth. If you lead a company with people in the field, this episode will completely change the way you think about training and the future of business.Key Takeaways:Skilled trades companies are not just facing a labour shortage, they are facing a knowledge transfer crisis.When experienced tradespeople retire without documenting what they know, decades of wisdom can disappear forever.Training is not just information sharing, it requires practice, feedback, repetition, and measurable behaviour change.Companies need to stop relying on informal “watch and learn” systems if they want consistent performance.AI can help companies capture, organize, and retrieve internal knowledge faster than ever before.Every company should be building its own internal knowledge library so employees can learn how things are done properly.Retention starts with better onboarding, stronger culture, and real career conversations.Skilled workers need more than pay to stay, they need growth paths, leadership, recognition, and purpose.The future of workforce development will blend technology, live coaching, field-based learning, and structured practice.Companies that invest in training now will reduce risk, improve quality, retain better people, and build a stronger competitive advantage.Check Out Boost LD & Follow Manja HornerIf this conversation resonated with you, make sure to connect with Manja Horner and learn more about the incredible work happening at Boost LD.

- Sales Below Expectations, Not Likely to Improve - Kia Slashes EV6 Pricing - Geely Buying Part of Ford's Spain Plant - GM Works to Fill Skilled Trades Shortage - VW Sets Fastest Front-Drive Car Record - Turkish Startup Partners with CATL - Lexus Gets 1st 3-Row EV - BMW iX3 Starts at $63K - Mercedes Reveals Pricing for New C-Class EV

- Sales Below Expectations, Not Likely to Improve - Kia Slashes EV6 Pricing - Geely Buying Part of Ford's Spain Plant - GM Works to Fill Skilled Trades Shortage - VW Sets Fastest Front-Drive Car Record - Turkish Startup Partners with CATL - Lexus Gets 1st 3-Row EV - BMW iX3 Starts at $63K - Mercedes Reveals Pricing for New C-Class EV

In this episode of Service Business Mastery, Tersh Blissett and Joshua Crouch sit down with Ryan Kiscaden, owner of Kiscaden Consulting and creator of the Next Up Trades children's book series, to discuss how storytelling can reshape the future of recruiting in the trades.   Ryan shares how a conversation with his plumber brother-in-law sparked the idea to create books that explain HVAC and plumbing to children in a way they can understand and connect with emotionally.   Instead of focusing only on wages, debt, and job security, Ryan believes the industry needs to tell a better story about purpose, problem solving, and helping people.   They discuss:   Why the trades struggle with perception problems How recruiting really starts in childhood The emotional side of working in HVAC and plumbing Why storytelling matters more than statistics The disconnect between schools and skilled trades How contractors can become community educators Why ADHD and hands-on learning may actually be strengths in the trades How AI and technology are changing the perception of blue-collar careers   If your company struggles to recruit young talent, this episode offers a completely different perspective on building the next generation of skilled trades professionals.   Timestamps 00:00 Promoting trades to young kids 04:15 Explaining skilled trades to kids 07:56 Changing perspectives in education 10:35 Changing perceptions around AI jobs 13:48 The gratification of helping others 17:36 Industry collaboration and collective effort 19:33 Interviewing teachers and donors 24:38 Creative uses by contractors 28:19 Challenges for kids with ADHD 32:22 Challenges with traditional schooling 33:34 Learning with technology and AI 36:32 Where to find more info   Follow the Host and Guest Tersh Blissett: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tershblissett/ Ryan Kiscaden: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryankiscaden/   Connect with Us LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/service-business-mastery TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@servicebusinessmastery Facebook Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/servicebusinessmasterypodcast Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/servicebusinessmasterypodcast   This episode is kindly powered by:   UpFrog: upfrog.com  MarketStorm is an AI-powered advertising platform. Results vary by market, budget, and campaign configuration: https://marketstorm.ai/  Get Your 14-Day Free Trial with CallRail!: https://www.callrail.com/sbmpod CompanyCam: https://companycam.com/  Breezy: $500 toward Breezy + we'll show you exactly how many jobs you're missing right now. Book a demo here: https://calendly.com/shaun-breezy/30min?month=2026-04  PhoneTAP: Your calls hold the key to growing your business. PhoneTAP gives you instant AI analysis, real customer lifetime value, and tools to coach your team. Learn more: phonetap.ai/demo   

Former congressman Jason Altmire has spent years in Washington—and even more time outside it—making the case that America's biggest opportunity isn't behind a desk, but behind a welding mask, a set of tools, or the wheel of a big machine. Now leading Career Education Colleges and Universities, he's on a mission to close the skills gap and reconnect hard work with real opportunity. In this episode, Mike and Jason dig into why millions of good jobs go unfilled, why the stigma around skilled labor refuses to die, and what it'll take to convince a new generation that "college for all" might not be the answer. Along the way, they unpack the ideas behind Jason's book, Trade Up: Why the Future Belongs to Skilled Trades and How Career Education is Transforming the Workforce—and make a compelling case that the fastest way to achieve the American Dream might be to pursue a skilled trade. Tip o' the hat to our excellent sponsors PureTalk.com/Rowe Get UNLIMITED hi-speed data for just $34.99 per month! SkillsUSA.org/mike Join the skilled trade movement! GoodRanchers.com Use code MIKE to get $25 off your first order & FREE meat for life. mikeroweWORKS.org/scholarship to apply for a work ethic scholarship.

President Trump has a vision for the American workforce. Forget expensive college educations. His eye is on the skilled trades. The U.S. Department of Labor has adopted the slogan “Make America Skilled Again.”But who gets to be part of this renaissance? Since the 1980s, women have made small but meaningful gains in the construction trades. Now there are concerns that President Trump's campaign to end diversity, equity and inclusion will stall that progress — setting back both women and the construction industry.Today on the Sunday Story, we ask how women fit into this administration's vision of this skilled trades future.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy