Part 2 of a 2 Part Series

Jorge shares his journey from apprentice to journeyman. International Union of operating engineers Local 12 — a story about hard work, perseverance, and the power of versatility. From his father’s advice to join the union, to logging 6,000 apprenticeship hours, Jorge opens up about the realities of life on the job site and the growing shortage of skilled talent.

He also dives into how fitness and boxing fuel his mindset, why mental health matters in the trades, and how networking and community can open new doors. This episode is all about building strength — in your craft, your body, and your future.

🎧 Real stories. Real skills. The pride of the blue-collar workforce.

👉 Follow Jorge for more about his career journey and fitness training that works with the trade's lifestyle.

YouTube: https://youtube.com/@andresdefitness?si=_YNx40nNRHHcVA4R

Instagram: https://youtube.com/@andresdefitness?si=_YNx40nNRHHcVA4R

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/andres.mendez.509

Stan Store: https://stan.store/KingJorgeMendez

Part 1 of a 2 Part Series

Jorge shares his journey from apprentice to journeyman. International Union of operating engineers Local 12 — a story about hard work, perseverance, and the power of versatility. From his father’s advice to join the union, to logging 6,000 apprenticeship hours, Jorge opens up about the realities of life on the job site and the growing shortage of skilled talent.

He also dives into how fitness and boxing fuel his mindset, why mental health matters in the trades, and how networking and community can open new doors. This episode is all about building strength — in your craft, your body, and your future.

🎧 Real stories. Real skills. The pride of the blue-collar workforce.

👉 Follow Jorge for more about his career journey and fitness training that works with the trade's lifestyle.

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jorge-mendez-1bab8375?lipi=urn%3Ali%3Apage%3Ad_flagship3_profile_view_base_contact_details%3B9IzHpPWoTQ%2BSn23rdUV%2Fbg%3D%3D

YouTube: https://youtube.com/@andresdefitness?si=_YNx40nNRHHcVA4R

Instagram: https://youtube.com/@andresdefitness?si=_YNx40nNRHHcVA4R

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/andres.mendez.509

Stan Store: https://stan.store/KingJorgeMendez

In this episode of The Career Confessions, Dawn talks with Dayne, a grain bin technician, about the often-overlooked science and skill behind building and maintaining massive grain storage structures.

The conversation dives deep into the engineering side of construction — exploring how metal sheets, material weight, and design choices all come together to ensure safety, durability, and precision. From calculating the weight of a top ring to understanding why a “thin” metal sheet can still pack serious heft, this discussion reveals how technical knowledge meets hands-on expertise in the trades.

In this episode Faith Domino shares her journey to becoming a Laborer Journeyman and breaking barriers as a woman in the trades. She opens up about overcoming fear, finding confidence, and the family-like bonds on the job site. Faith talks about work-life balance, union pride, and her dream to start her own company—proving that women belong and thrive in the construction industry.

Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@faithdomino

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/domino_faith

In this episode of The Career Confessions, Dawn sits down with Sean Allen, a fourth-generation union bricklayer, President of Local 21 and Partner of Union Proud Warrior , about the evolution of blue-collar careers. They dive into apprenticeships, trade schools, union benefits, and the booming opportunities in construction. If you’re curious about skilled trades, career paths without crushing debt, or what it takes to build a future with your hands, this episode is for you.

Seal Allen:

Union Proud Warriors: https://unionproudwarrior.com/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@unionproudwarriors

In this episode of The Career Confessions, Dawn sits down with Brooke Severt, a Tower Technician who shares her inspiring journey into the world of tower climbing. Brooke opens up about the challenges and rewards of working in this demanding yet fulfilling field, highlighting what makes tower work both physically and mentally unique.

She discusses the gender dynamics within the industry, the growing need for skilled labor, and how more awareness and recruitment can strengthen blue-collar professions. Brooke also reflects on the camaraderie and pride that come with building and maintaining the structures that keep our world connected. From scaling towers to shaping the future of communication, Brooke’s story is a testament to the power of persistence, teamwork, and passion for skilled trades.

Brooke:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brooke-severt-317498222/

In this episode, LaTrelle Chase shares her inspiring journey from a successful career in cosmetology to shaping the next generation as a public school educator in career and technical education. She discusses how Massachusetts’ unique vocational system connects students with real-world experiences through co-op programs and industry partnerships. LaTrelle highlights the vital role of advisory boards in ensuring curricula stay aligned with industry needs and emphasizes the importance of employer engagement in preparing students for rewarding careers in the skilled trades. With honesty and passion, she explores both the challenges and the deep rewards of guiding young people toward meaningful career paths.

In this conversation, Dana opens up about life as a glazier—a skilled trade that’s so much more than just installing windows. From massive job sites to years of hands-on experience, he breaks down what the work really involves—and the pride that comes with building a blue-collar career. 👷‍♂️💪

We also dive into Dana’s personal journey—life lessons, struggles, and what it’s like being a single dad. His story led him to write a powerful book about fatherhood and resilience, and it’s one you don’t want to miss. 📖

This one’s honest, real, and full of heart.

Book Available: 🔗 [How to be a Real Dad, in a World full of Fake Men]

In this conversation, Dana opens up about his transition from healthcare to a thriving career in glazing. He underscores the value of union work, apprenticeship training, and the pride that comes with building a life in the trades. Dana reflects on safety practices for working at heights, the financial rewards of skilled labor, and the positive ripple effect tradespeople have on their communities. He also speaks to the physical demands of the work, the tight-knit camaraderie among crews, and the responsibility of mentoring the next generation. Finally, Dana shares lessons on resilience and personal growth, including insights from writing his own parenting book.

Join us next week for Part 2, when Dana explains being a Glazier is much more than installing windows.

In this conversation, Renee Glendenning shares her unique journey from mechanical engineering to founding her own QC University, Renee Glendenning’s path through the construction industry is anything but ordinary. In this episode, she opens up about her transition into quality control, the pressing need for skilled labor, and why mentorship and hands-on training are essential to the future of the trades. Her story is one of grit, passion, and a deep desire to give back—perfect inspiration for anyone considering a career in construction.

Contact Information for Renee:

LinkedIn link: https://www.linkedin.com/in/renee-glendenning-87276b2b2/

You can learn more about Renee, Construction Quality Control and products at https://qcuniversity.net