The Fix

In this episode of The Fix, we sat down with Allison Grealis, Founder and President of Women in Manufacturing, to talk about her journey in the manufacturing industry and how her organization has influenced women in the field. Grealis emphasizes the importance of increasing career awareness, promoting modern manufacturing, and the benefits of education, networking, and mentorship in helping women overcome obstacles in this field.

For more info visit: www.womeninmanufacturing.org

Follow Women in Manufacturing on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and LinkedIn.

Chris Griffin and Keith Dorton from the Trades Education Center delve into their inspiration behind the center's inception and their vision for the future of the trades industry. They underscore the significance of practical experience in trade education and share how their curriculum incorporates this essential element. Additionally, they reveal their expansion plans, which include diversifying into other trades and providing test prep for journeymen and master plumbers.

Learn more at www.trades-ed.org and follow along on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and YouTube.

This week on The Fix, we sat down with James Brann, Chair of the Workforce Task Force at the Treasure Coast Builders Association. where we delved into misconceptions, technological advancements, and collaborative efforts aimed at ensuring a vibrant future for the trades industry. 

Learn more about Treasure Coast Builders Association at www.treasurecoastba.com.

Gina and Rich Camacho, Co-Founders of BlueRecruit discuss this revolutionary platform that connects skilled tradespeople with hiring companies. BlueRecruit offers personalized career paths and has been praised by both employers and job seekers for its effectiveness in matching job opportunities with the right skills and certifications. The company collaborates closely with accredited trade schools, facilitating a continuous talent pipeline while offering tailored career paths for job seekers.

Follow BlueRecruit on LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter and Facebook.

Scott Caron, master electrician and co-host of 'This Old House,' shares his journey to becoming a master electrician and highlights the pivotal role of trust, perseverance, and a supportive network in the trades. He also talks about his ongoing commitment to improving the perception of trades.

Scott also discusses the Elite Trades Championship Series, a high-profile competition epitomizing skills across trade sectors, including the Plumbing National Championships, which will kick off in the spring of 2024. 

Follow Plumbing National Championship on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn.

In this episode of The Fix podcast, Brent McCartney and Pat Ciarleglio from Connecticut Technical Education and Career System (CTECS) discuss how their institution offers a range of technical high school career paths. They highlight their unique blend of academic and trade education, tailored to industry needs with a focus on experiential learning. The pair also touch on CTECS's apprenticeship programs, future expansion plans for adult education, and their vision for a future where tradespeople are respected, valued, and prioritize safety on job sites.

Follow Connecticut Technical Education and Career System on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube.

Chris Price, president of the Indiana Construction Roundtable Foundation, joins us to talk about their efforts to foster the next generation of trades industry leaders. Price discusses both K-12 and adult programs, striving to create opportunities and training for individuals with a focus on overcoming hurdles such as poverty and criminal backgrounds. With their tech-forward approach, including VR in training, and having reached 70,000 students, the foundation hopes to see its successful workforce strategies replicated across the country.

To learn more about the Indiana Construction Roundtable Foundation, visit www.indianaconstructionfoundation.com.

Lori Tschol, co-founder of Women in Plumbing and Piping (WIPP) and owner of Eagle Pipe Heating and Air, joins us to share her unconventional journey into the trades and the proactive measures WIPP is taking to champion women. Tschol also discusses the critical roles of mentorship, networking, education, and recognition in showcasing the invaluable contributions of women in the plumbing and piping industry.

In the latest episode of The Fix, Katie Poehling-Seymour, President and CEO of First Supply, delves into her story of success within the wholesale distribution sector. She discusses First Supply's longevity and the issues and prospects within the trades industry. The episode also explores her commitment to diversity, inclusivity, and advocating for women in the trades, along with the importance of sustainability and industry innovation. 

Follow First Supply on Facebook and LinkedIn. 

Angela Collins, Chief Learning Officer at PHCC Educational Foundation, narrates her journey into the trades and shares insights about the growth of PHCC Academy. Angela touches on the mission, vision and key initiatives of the PHCC Educational Foundation and their innovative approach with industry partners.