There is a shortage of skilled trades reported by several entities. The number of construction workers retiring every year is bigger than the number of apprentices joining the industry. Why is this happening? Some would say that is because, in the past, injuries were more common, and people losing limbs or even dying was a part of it. And that's something today's parents grew up seeing and don't want for their kids. Others suggest that the shortage is a symptom of social pressure and the idea that without a college degree, no one can succeed. Reality shows that today, worker's safety is a number one priority, and a college degree is not always the only answer. 

Today, I chat with the inspiring Shannon Tymosko, Electrical Apprentice (IBEW Local 105), and Proud Ambassador with KickAss Careers. She is passionate about learning and overcoming new challenges. As a KickAss ambassador, Shannon enjoys educating people, helping them develop new abilities, and thrive in an alternative pathway career in the construction industry. She is a certified Level 1 Machinist and a 309A Construction & Maintenance, Electrician Level 1 from the Mohawk College. She has an Advance Diploma in Child and Youth Work from Humber College. 

Shannon shared her inspiring and educational story about her journey of getting into a skilled trade and her evolution in the industry so far. We also talked about her feelings around being a woman in an industry where men are predominant. She kindly spoke about her role as a KickAss ambassador and the mental and physical benefits from working on manual jobs. Shannon gave away some tips for those interested in getting into the construction industry and explained the importance of gaining experience to reach confidence. 

Some Questions I Ask:

• You took the traditional college path, right? And you spent about 10, 11 years in the workforce before the trade. Do you want to talk a little bit about that? (2:00)
• You started as a machinist first, correct? (6:32)
• You talk about mental and physical health. I'd like you to talk a little bit about how skilled trades can help in that regard. (8:54)
• You also mentioned confidence. Can you talk about how being in trades increased your confidence? (10:36)
• You are an ambassador for KickAss careers. And it appears that you have a nickname, Lady Voltz. Is that correct? (14:46)
• What are you working on now? (20:01)

In This Episode, You Will Learn:

• Shannon's first steps into skill trades (2:31)
• The importance of physical exercising, not only for our bodies but for our minds (9:31)
• Where does confidence come from (11:41)
• Skilled trades can bring real success and they are for everyone. (15:36)
• People in skilled trades go to school and get paid for it. (22:37)
• Work ethics, willingness to learn, and integrity can't be trained, and they have massive value in the industry (30:08)

Resources:

• KickAss Careers website

Connect with Shannon:

• LinkedIn
• Instagram

Let's Connect!

• LinkedIn
• Instagram 
• Twitter
• MPC Builders - Website
• MPC Builders - Facebook

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