Host Andrew Brown welcomes Brooke Gatchell, Social Media Specialist at SkillsUSA, to discuss the impact of the SkillsUSA welding competition and other trade competitions on students and professionals. They explore how skilled trades careers are evolving, the importance of trade school opportunities, and how organizations like SkillsUSA contribute to workforce development programs. They also discuss the National Leadership and Skills Conference, where the best in the trades industry showcase their craftsmanship and compete for top honors.

In this Episode:

(03:15) – Introduction to SkillsUSA and its role in shaping skilled trades careers.

(07:40) – The impact of the SkillsUSA welding competition and its influence on students.

(12:25) – The role of the National Leadership and Skills Conference in career development.

(18:10)– How trade school opportunities help build a strong workforce.

(25:35) – The importance of mentorship and hands-on experience in workforce development programs.

(32:50) – Final thoughts on advocacy, career growth, and the future of the trades industry.

Key Takeaways:

SkillsUSA is a powerful platform – It helps students develop technical and soft skills, preparing them for skilled trades careers.

Competitions drive excellence – Events like the SkillsUSA welding competition and the National Leadership and Skills Conference push students to perfect their craft.

Trade school opportunities matter – Education and training in the trades are crucial for closing the skills gap and creating job-ready professionals.

Workforce development programs are essential – Industry partnerships and training initiatives help ensure the future success of tradespeople.

About the Guest:

Brooke Gatchell is the Social Media Specialist at SkillsUSA, a leading organization in workforce development programs for students entering skilled trades careers. She is passionate about advocacy in the trades industry, helping students find success through trade school opportunities and career competitions like the SkillsUSA welding competition and the National Leadership and Skills Conference.

Keywords:

SkillsUSA welding competition, skilled trades careers, trade school opportunities, workforce development programs, National Leadership and Skills Conference, Skilled Trades, Trades Industry, Andrew Brown, Brooke Brooke Gatchell [00:00:00]:

RESOURCE LINKS:

• Linkedin profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brookegatchell/
• Website: https://www.skillsusa.org/

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