In this conversation, Sean, Catherine and Mark Hedstrom discuss the importance of skilled trades and the need to destigmatize blue collar jobs. Mark, the executive director of the Skilled Careers Coalition, emphasizes the necessity of engaging parents and students in exploring skilled career options. They explore the challenges of connecting students to opportunities in the workforce and the fragmented ecosystem that exists. Mark shares insights on the supply and demand for skilled labor and his passion for raising awareness about the viability of skilled careers as a pathway to economic stability, and discusses the evolving landscape of skilled trades, the importance of mentorship, and the impact of social media on youth career choices. He emphasizes the need for a shift in educational focus, exploring alternative pathways for the next generation, and the role of philanthropy in addressing workforce challenges. The discussion highlights the significance of passion in career choices and the necessity of community engagement to foster a new generation of skilled workers.