The Lost Art Of the Skilled Trades

In this episode Brandon Eckenrode from the Collision Repair Education Foundation (CREF) dives into reopening collision school programs, the importance of industry support, and changing perceptions of vocational education. Learn about SkillsUSA, scholarships, and the growing role of females in the trade.

00:00 Car repair industry faces staffing shortage, affecting customers.

05:16 CREF supports collision repair programs, donates new vehicles.

09:27 Support for students and schools through grants.

10:41 Visit website for local collision school programs.

16:15 Students have entrepreneurial spirit, aspire to paint.

19:18 Early family connection sparks interest, networking opportunities.

22:00 Older cars easier to work on, safety concern.

23:54 Promoting awareness of career opportunities for students.

28:44 Industry support revives shuttered collision school programs.

32:05 Conference gathers thousands of school counselors nationwide.

35:01 Female students excel in technical trade competitions.

40:23 Promote industry awareness through fundraiser for outreach.

41:57 Schools on break, industry meetings in Denver.

44:50 Highlighting the importance of blue collar workers.

Brandon Eckenrode is an astute observer and commentator on crucial industry trends, specifically within the automotive repair sector. He identifies a significant issue poised to impact daily transportation – a notable shortage of skilled professionals in the field. With many experienced technicians approaching retirement and fewer individuals entering the trade, Brandon has highlighted the escalating problem of prolonged vehicle repair times. He stresses the critical need for addressing this gap to prevent extended delays that can hinder individuals' daily commutes and overall mobility. Brandon's insights emphasize the urgency of revitalizing the workforce to ensure efficient and timely automotive services in the future.

Follow Collision Repair Education Foundation

• LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/collision-repair-education-foundation/
• Instagram: @collisioneducationfoundation
• Website: https://www.collisioneducationfoundation.org
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEUE5JFUoslOJl6TNXF9vFA

**Sequence of Topics Covered in the Episode:**

1. **Reopening Shuttered Collision School Programs**

- Rallying local industry support

- Demonstrating program need to administration

- Navigating red tape

- Investments in tools, equipment, and supplies

2. **Changing Perception of Vocational Education**

- Collaboration with American School Counselor Association

- Providing up-to-date career path information

- Resources for guidance counselors: career path banners, collisioncareers.com

3. **SkillsUSA Competition**

- Description as technical trade Olympics

- Competitions in collision repair, refinishing, and estimating

- Participation of best students at high school and post-secondary levels

4. **Increasing Female Participation**

- Emphasis on attention to detail and work ethic

- Opportunities and support for female students

- Collaboration with organizations like Women's Industry Network

5. **Opportunities and Support for Students**

- Scholarships and tool grants to remove barriers

- Various career paths in the automotive industry

- Highlighting entrepreneurial spirit among students

6. **Industry Engagement and Events**

- Presence at SEMA show

- Announcements of school grants

- Networking with industry partners, instructors, and students

7. **Family Connections and Early Exposure**

- Influence of family connections in sparking interest

- Holding career fair events at auto show floors

8. **Impact of Mentorship**

- The role of mentorship in the automotive industry

- Diminishing interest in classic car restoration and maintenance

9. **Skilled Trades Gap in Automotive Industry**

- Impact on car repairs and transportation

- Nationwide issue of a lack of skilled workers

- Delays in car repairs due to shortage of technicians

10. **Collision Repair Education Foundation's Efforts**

- Providing funding, materials, and equipment to programs

- Awards and support statistics since 2009

- Preparing for upcoming school year and events like SEMA

11. **Pushback and Challenges**

- Pushback from parents and school administration

- Efforts in educating parents and students about opportunities

- Changing perceptions of technical trade programs

12. **Budget Constraints and School Support**

- Challenges of working with limited resources

- Statistics on school budget constraints

- Foundation's efforts to support schools and instructors

13. **Newer Car Technologies**

- Focus on safety with electric and hybrid vehicles

- Attracting students interested in computer science and technology

14. **Efforts to Increase Female Participation**

- Female refinishing student competing at World Skills in France

- Collaboration with Women's Industry Network

15. **Operative Talent Initiative**

- Rebuilding a 69 Camaro for a public outreach campaign

- Display and raffle announcement at SEMA

16. **Significance of Industry Engagement**

- Importance of industry support for schools

- Apprenticeship programs and hands-on learning models

- Potential earnings in the industry

17. **Foundation's Social Media and Outreach**

- Following CREF on social media

- Facilitating introductions and support conversations

18. **Record Scholarships and Tool Grants**

- $235,000 awarded in scholarships and tool grants

- Support for schools and instructors via grant opportunities and funding for recruitment efforts

Collision repair education, vocational education, automotive industry careers, SkillsUSA competition, collision school programs, industry support, technical trades, high school education, post-secondary education, school counselors, American School Counselor Association, collisioncareers.com, female students in trades, scholarships and tool grants, SEMA show, auto body repair, family connections in trades, mentorship in automotive industry, classic car restoration, skilled labor shortage, Collision Repair Education Foundation, industry partnerships, budget constraints in education, technical education funding, industry events, automotive technology, hybrid and electric vehicles, parent and school administration perceptions, technician apprenticeship programs, entry-level wages in automotive.

Jennifer Green discusses her journey in skilled trades: mentorship at Conestoga College, winning competitions, and promoting diversity. She highlights the need for early career exploration, successful initiatives like Skills Ontario, and changing stigmas about trades, emphasizing the lucrative potential.

We'll explore the growing interest in entrepreneurship among students, the importance of early exposure to skilled trades, and the transformation of stigmas surrounding these crucial careers. Jennifer emphasizes the need to introduce young children to skilled trades early to foster awareness and break down misconceptions.

Andrew and Jennifer also discuss the current shortages of key trades like welders, electricians, and plumbers, and how these gaps impact the future workforce. They delve into extensive initiatives by Skills Ontario aimed at promoting diversity, inclusion, and hands-on learning, from summer camps to a traveling classroom.

Find out more about Jennifer Green

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-green-27211896/
• Instagram: jennifer_Green433a
• Website:  https://www.skillsontario.com/

Jennifer Green is a dynamic individual who thrives on thinking outside the box and embracing unique ideas. As an industrial millwright by trade, Jennifer, along with her husband, a general machinist, actively engages in numerous home projects, often involving their two children, aged ten and twelve. Their twelve-year-old son humorously refers to his preferred activities as "the quiet trades," enjoying drywall and plastering, while their ten-year-old daughter exhibits a keen enthusiasm for power tools. Jennifer's passion for creativity and hands-on work extends into her family life, instilling these values in her children and making every project a collaborative family affair.

00:00 Jennifer Green promotes skilled trades, empowers women.

04:51 Book promotion leads to widespread school distribution.

06:43 Working with father in garage sparked interest.

11:25 High school hours counted toward apprenticeship.

13:53 Government supports skilled trades, promotes accessibility, evolution.

16:17 Skilled trades are vital but often overlooked.

20:53 From volunteer to successful woman in trades.

24:07 Limited mentorship options, male mentor provides support.

26:37 Provinces compete at nationals, then internationally.

29:10 Excited for Skills USA competition in Georgia.

32:18 Record high of registered apprentices, especially females.

37:54 Promotion of trades to students and parents.

38:53 Breaking stigma around valuable career options for youth.

44:40 Trade success requires delayed gratification and patience.

46:53 Parental toughness led to a drive for success.

51:26 Transitioning to entrepreneurship requires a new skillset.

54:23 Skills Ontario hits the road to educate.

56:23 Honor blue collar workers, follow Andrew Brown.

**1. Jennifer Green's Personal Journey in Skilled Trades**

- Mentorship and Competition

- Mentorship from Conestoga College faculty

- Male mentor named John

- Mentorship leading to confidence and preparation for competitions

- Achievements in Competitions

- Winning gold at provincials

- Becoming part of Team Ontario

- Winning a silver medal at national competition

- Similarity to SkillsUSA in the US

- Comparison of Canadian competitions to SkillsUSA

- World skills competition involving 87 member countries

- Mental Health Training and Preparation

- Focus on mental health along with technical skills

**2. Industry Demands and Opportunities**

- Shortages in Skilled Trades

- Shortages of welders, electricians, and plumbers in the US

- Getting Kids into Trades

- Changing stigma surrounding trades

- High earning potential and advancement in millwright careers

- Success Stories

- Mentoring a woman who became a licensed industrial mechanic and mentor

**3. Early Introduction to Skilled Trades**

- Ideal Age for Career Discussions

- Importance of conversations starting as early as grade four

- Grade seven or eight as critical periods for career decisions

- Creating Awareness among Children

- Skilled trades alphabet book

- Hands-on activities

**4. Entrepreneurship in Skilled Trades**

- Growing Interest Among Students

- Programs focusing on skilled trades entrepreneurship

- Events showcasing skilled trades opportunities for secondary students

- Support for Young Entrepreneurs

- Challenges faced by tradespeople in entrepreneurship

- Personal anecdotes illustrating these challenges

**5. Programs and Initiatives Promoting Skilled Trades**

- Skills Ontario Programs

- Summer camps, women in trades program, diversity, and inclusion initiatives

- Traveling classroom to promote skilled trades and technology education

- Tuition-Free Programs

- Teaching trades and soft skills with graduates receiving multiple job offers

- Developing an entrepreneurial mindset among graduates

**6. Addressing Misconceptions and Stereotypes**

- Stigma and Stereotypes

- Combating misconceptions about skilled trades

- Jennifer’s use of metaphors to explain millwright roles

- Gender and Inclusivity

- Facing harassment and difficulties as a female millwright

- Importance of policies promoting diversity and inclusion

- Increase in the percentage of women in trades

**7. Benefits of Trades Education**

- Career Paths and Opportunities

- Career exploration and need for public education about the trades

- Programs offering high school credits and apprenticeship hours

- Secure jobs and early licensing

**8. Government and Curriculum Support**

- Government Initiatives

- Record high number of registered apprentices

- Introduction of new initiatives like mandatory Pa day for guidance educators

- Educational Curriculum

- Reintroduction of skilled trades and tech in elementary grades

- Launch of junk draw races program

- Provincial competitions in engineering and robotics

**9. Changing Public Perceptions**

- Efforts in the US

- Acknowledgement of the importance of skilled trades

- Career exploration options in schools

- Parental Concerns

- Addressing concerns and misconceptions about the viability of trades

- Events for parents and guardians to educate about opportunities in trades

**10. Importance and Appreciation of Skilled Trades**

- Contribution to Everyday Life

- Significance in supporting activities like power supply and internet connection

- Encouragement for Blue-Collar Workers

- Andrew Brown’s emphasis on community appreciation

- Return and Continuity of the Podcast

- Promises of future episodes and continued discussion on trades education

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In today's episode, we dive into the world of welding with Mark Fisher, a 20-year veteran from Lincoln Electric. Discover the true passion, skill, and innovation that drive this pivotal trade, and learn why the future of manufacturing depends on it.

Mark Fisher is an expert in the automotive industry, where his knowledge and experience have underscored the critical importance of minimizing downtime, often calculated in tens of thousands of dollars per minute. He understands that maintaining continuous production is not just a matter of efficiency, but also of significant financial impact.

Follow Mark Fisher

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-f-7b9bb3a8/

Mark recognizes that many issues in the industry can be self-induced, often stemming from simple factors such as inadequate training or a lack of skilled personnel. This insight drives his passion for promoting and increasing the number of people pursuing careers in skilled trades. He is dedicated to addressing the industry’s ongoing challenge of gradual workforce turnover and attrition, continually advocating for better training and recruitment to sustain and improve the sector.

00:00 Celebrating the importance of blue collar workers.

03:42 Automotive industry requires skilled trades and training.

06:36 Foreign manufacturing uses people, US uses cobots.

12:00 Transitioned from management to welding at Lincoln.

15:21 Differently qualified individuals fostered from an early age.

18:44 Growing interest in trade school over college.

19:55 Personal impact, infrastructure issues, world's specific directions.

25:45 Explore local welding education, find top talent.

26:36 Guidance essential for entering trade profession effectively.

31:10 Success from relationships and teamwork in Cleveland.

35:52 Supporting product, transferring knowledge, building relationships.

38:10 AWS welding Journal, industry trade shows, LinkedIn, Google.

40:43 Highlighting importance of skilled trades, promoting podcast.

Introduction

- Podcast name: Lost Art of The Skilled Trades

- Episode title: Mark Fisher.mp3

- Speakers: Andrew Brown (Host), Mark Fisher (Guest)

Emphasizing Passion and Skill in Skilled Trades

- Importance of passion and skill in trades like welding

- Building relationships for success

- Focus on the unsung heroes of the economy

Mark Fisher's Background at Lincoln Electric

- 20 years of experience in welding

- Dedicated and passionate problem-solving in the industry

Challenges in the Skilled Trades

- Issues faced by large corporations (e.g., automotive industry)

- Training challenges

- Employee turnover

- Skill shortages

Addressing the Shortage of Welders

- Need to attract young people to the trades

- Impact of technological advancements on welding

Role of Robotics in Welding

- Benefits and limitations of robots

- Need for human expertise in unconventional welding tasks

Successful Projects and Customer Conversations

- Communication issue resolution in California

- Six-month project in Kentucky

- Collaboration with smart individuals and teams

Technological Advancements in Welding

- Robotics and lights-out automation

Career Goals and Industry Trends

- Knowledge transfer

- Self-improvement

- Staying current with resources like industry magazines, trade shows, and LinkedIn

Advocacy for the Skilled Trades

- Encouraging young people to pursue opportunities in trades

- Supporting the industry

Recommendations for Getting Started in Welding

- Local community colleges or vocational schools

- Flow chart approach to finding trade schools and organizations

- Importance of learning from different experiences and failing fast

Skills Needed for Success

- Technical skills

- Soft skills

Career Paths and Flexibility in the Welding Industry

- Beyond just welding

- Case study of career-switching

Integration of Welding into Different Industries

- Opportunities within Lincoln Electric

- Company culture and values

Comparison of Mindsets Towards Trades Internationally

- US school system's lack of emphasis on trades

- Improved career guidance in other countries

Consumerism in the US vs. Other Countries

- Higher interest in buying rather than building in the US

- Financial ability differences influencing trade interest

Future of Manufacturing in the US

- Concerns about the lack of personnel for essential item maintenance

- Growing interest in trade schools as viable career options

Importance of Skilled Trades in Infrastructure and Manufacturing

- Preparation for the future

- Regional training programs aligning with job needs

Wages and Recognition in the Trades

- Differing perspectives on effort and rewards

Guidance and Clear Pathways for Young People

- Clear steps and advice for entering the welding trade

- Parental guidance in supporting trade career paths

1. **Passion and Skill in Trades**: Mark Fisher emphasizes the importance of passion and skill in the welding trade. Why do you think these attributes are particularly crucial in this field, and how can they be fostered in young people considering a career in welding?

2. **Building Relationships**: How do you think building strong relationships contributes to success in the skilled trades, based on Mark Fisher's experiences? Can you share an example from your own life or industry where a strong relationship made a significant difference?

3. **Training and Skill Shortages**: What are some specific strategies that could be implemented to address the training and skill shortages in the welding industry? How could these strategies be applied to other skilled trades?

4. **Technological Advancements**: Fisher talks about the impact of robotics and automation on the welding industry. In your opinion, what are the benefits and limitations of integrating such technologies in skilled trades?

5. **Career Exploration in Trades**: The episode highlights the need for better career exploration and guidance for young people interested in trades. What steps can schools and communities take to improve awareness and support for these career paths?

6. **Consumerism vs. Building**: Fisher discusses the difference in consumer behavior between the US and other countries. Why do you think more people in the US are interested in buying rather than building, and what cultural shifts might change this perspective?

7. **Wages and Recognition**: How do you perceive the current state of wages and recognition in the skilled trades? What changes do you think are necessary to improve the perception and reality of careers in these fields?

8. **Career Flexibility**: Mark Fisher mentions the varied career paths available in the welding industry beyond just welding. Can you think of other skilled trades where this kind of career flexibility exists? How does this flexibility impact the appeal of such careers?

9. **Case Studies of Success**: The episode references successful projects, including Fisher's work in Kentucky. What are the key elements that contribute to the success of such projects, and how can these be replicated in other regions or industries?

10. **Regional Training Programs**: Fisher talks about the importance of regional training programs tailored to specific job needs. How can we develop and implement effective regional training initiatives, and what role should local businesses and educational institutions play in these efforts?

skilled trades, welding industry, Mark Fisher, Lincoln Electric, The Lost Art of the Skilled Trades podcast, passion in trades, building relationships in trades, skilled trade challenges, automotive industry skills, welder shortage, attracting young welders, technological advancements in welding, robotics in welding, underwater welding, unconventional welding tasks, customer conversations in welding, lights out automation, industry trends, trade shows, vocational schools, community colleges for welding, technical skills in trades, soft skills in trades, welding career paths, Lincoln Electric company culture, trade career guidance, consumerism in the US, future of US manufacturing, regional training programs, welding wages.

Matt Scott shares insights on the future of welding education, his son’s career journey, and the importance of mentorship. With 30 years at Portland Community College, Matt's dedication to the trades and promoting diversity in the industry shines through. Don't miss this inspiring conversation!

Today, we sit down with Matt Scott, a veteran welding instructor with over 30 years of experience at Portland Community College. Matt shares his passion for teaching, his commitment to quality instruction and curriculum in the welding industry, and his consulting work with the Canadian Welding Bureau.

We dive into the inspiring journey of his son, who transitioned from aspiring math teacher to successful ship superintendent, thanks to a solid foundation in welding education. We'll also explore Matt's active engagement on LinkedIn and Instagram in promoting the trades industry, and the impressive welding program at Portland Community College, which offers extensive training and career opportunities.

Our conversation covers a variety of topics, from the importance of mentorship and soft skills, to efforts to increase the presence of women in the trades. Matt highlights the significant impact of social media in showcasing skilled trades and inspiring the next generation. If you're passionate about the trades, this episode is a must-listen! Join us as we celebrate the unsung heroes of our society’s infrastructure – the skilled tradespeople who build our world and keep it running.

Follow Matt Scott:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-scott-cwi-cwe-b87b4014/

Instagram: @pccweldingrc

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Toolfetch

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-brown-b1736a5/ 

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@andrew.l.brown

Website: https://www.toolfetch.com

Welding industry, welding instruction, welding curriculum, ship superintendent, career advancement, math teacher, traits of a good welder, welding education, Portland Community College, skilled trades, welding consulting, Canadian Welding Bureau, social media in trades, LinkedIn for welding, Instagram for welding, welding program, welding associate degree, maritime welding, ship fitting, welding leadership, welding management courses, wages in welding, welding mentorship, training in welding, women in welding, social media influencers in trades, underwater welding, traditional welding, American Choppers inspiration, welding career paths, skilled labor collaboration

00:00 Inspiring show American Choppers on Discovery Channel.

05:30 Embracing diverse paths to success in careers.

09:14 Tanner graduated, played baseball, then pursued welding.

12:23 Grandparent expresses surprise at grandson’s career change

14:37 Learning to weld is a challenging process.

17:15 Five maritime career pathways, including welding and fitting.

20:06 Maritime program offers comprehensive welding and fitting.

23:12 Frank restructured company to train young workers.

26:15 Teaching teamwork and soft skills to students.

29:47 Promoting women in trades; skills and diversity.

36:01 Individuals find their niche in various industries.

39:10 Passionate about teaching and student success.

40:57 Enthusiastic collaboration with Weld.com during pandemic

Today, we're thrilled to have Eric G, a passionate advocate for innovation in home construction materials and the skilled trades

Eric G dives into the need for new home construction materials to replace outdated products like drywall, and he provides insights into his radio and TV shows, as well as upcoming projects that showcase innovative construction products.

The conversation also highlights their shared dedication to promoting the skilled trades industry and the significance of staying updated with the latest industry changes.

We'll also explore the production process behind a home improvement show, Eric's journey influenced by his family's work ethic, and the importance of early hands-on exposure for those considering a trade career.

Whether you're a seasoned pro or just curious about the world of skilled trades, this episode is packed with valuable insights and inspiring stories. Stay tuned!

Follow Eric G:

website: www.aroundthehouseonline.com

LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/athericg/

YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCip2fpVJl_swmd2heWq1D3w

Instagram: @herealaroundthehouse/

Follow Andrew Brown:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Toolfetch

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-brown-b1736a5/ 

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@andrew.l.brown

Website: https://www.toolfetch.com

home construction materials, innovation in construction, outdated drywall, advancements in technology, improvement in trades, construction industry growth, radio show expansion, TV show projects, innovative products, skilled trades industry, home improvement show production, small crew, shooting and editing shows, content condensation, audience feedback, seasonal themes, tool testing, tools review, family background in trades, early exposure to trades, career in trades, exploring school programs, gaining hands-on experience, Lost Art of the Skilled Trades podcast, blue collar workers, debunking trade myths, kitchen redesign, clients' needs in kitchen design, modern appliances compatibility, efficiency and safety in trades, battery-powered tools.

Together, they discuss the growing trend of women entering the trades and the immense satisfaction that comes from building a career in these essential fields.

We'll touch on the looming shortage of skilled tradespeople and the proactive measures needed to combat it, including the importance of early education and creative approaches to promoting trade careers.

Andrew shares a personal story about the importance of HVAC repair, while Kate highlights the ongoing efforts to fill the knowledge gap for students, parents, and educators.

We also delve into the challenges students face in traditional education settings, the benefits of engaging with local businesses for internships, and the essential role of soft skills in the workforce. Additionally, we'll explore initiatives like Williamson College of the Trades' tuition-free program and Ferguson's equipment grants for schools.

Join us as we uncover the significant impact of vocational training, the changing perceptions among parents regarding four-year degrees, and the rise of Generation Z as the "tool belt generation."

Tune in to learn more about how institutions and organizations are bridging the technical talent gap and creating new opportunities for the next generation of skilled tradespeople. Let's get started!

Where to follow Andrew Brown

• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Toolfetch
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-brown-b1736a5/
• TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@andrew.l.brown
• Website: https://www.toolfetch.com
• 
  

Where to follow Kate Cinnamo

• https://explorethetrades.org/
• https://www.linkedin.com/in/katecinnamo/
• 
  

women in trades, sense of accomplishment, skilled trades shortage, vocational career path, HVAC repair, residential impact, commercial impact, proactive education, trades promotion, student internships, job shadowing, soft skills in trades, Williamson College of the Trades, tuition-free program, no debt education, high-paying job opportunities, vocational opportunities, lack of trade resources, vocational classes decline, hands-on learning, career exploration in schools, introducing trades early, parent perspectives on trades, rising tuition costs, vocational interest in Generation Z, equipment grants for schools, HVAC programs, plumbing programs, skills lab setup, visual posters for trades

Today, we're joined by the one and only Nate Bowman, also known as the "weld scientist." Nate's journey in the welding industry is nothing short of inspiring, proving that success is attainable despite past struggles and challenges.

In this episode, he shares invaluable insights on making proactive moves in the job market, understanding wages, and using virtual welding as a tool to engage young people.

We'll dive deep into the importance of persistence, professionalism, and adapting to technological advancements in the welding industry.

Nate also opens up about his busy schedule, mentorship role, and dedication to helping newcomers in the trade through social media. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting your journey in the skilled trades, this episode is packed with advice and experiences that will motivate you to keep pushing forward.

So grab your welding helmets and tune in as we explore the world of welding with Nate Bowman!

Follow Nate Bowman on Instagram @weldscientist

Follow Andrew Brown

Nate Bowman, welding industry, success journey, welding career advice, workplace assessment, environmental assessment, employee standard of living, proactive job seeking, persistence in trades, professionalism, virtual welding, inefficiencies in welding, open wage conversation, career aspirations, high school welding students, direct job-seeking, negotiation for compensation, diversification of skills, augmented reality welding, cobots in welding, automation in welding, technological advancements, mentorship in trades, educational videos, welding competition, Lincoln welding education, financial responsibility in trades, tax planning for trades, work-life balance, heavy equipment operation, blue-collar skilled trades.

In this episode, we’ll delve into the extraordinary efforts being made to introduce young girls to the trades industry through innovative programs like the MYWIC camp and Block Kids contests.

Mary Gaffney will share the impact of these initiatives, including an extensive infrastructure project in Philadelphia, job site tours, and hands-on activities designed to spark interest in construction careers among girls from diverse backgrounds.

We'll touch on the historical context of women in trades, inspired by World War II's Rosie the Riveter, and today's ongoing efforts to reshape perceptions and increase visibility for women in skilled trades.

With stories of transformation, empowerment, and the tireless dedication of volunteers and tradeswomen, we'll explore how these programs not only provide technical skills but also foster confidence and essential life skills. Plus, we'll hear about the exciting educational tools like the Block Kids activity book, designed to help children understand the fundamentals of various trades through interactive games and challenges.

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Today, we're joined by Joshua O'neal, a seasoned welder with over two decades of experience who has transitioned into a formidable educator in the field. Journey with us as Joshua shares his inspiring path from observing journeymen to mastering and teaching the art of welding.

He will discuss the transformative power of trade education, the influence of his family's legacy in the trades, and the evolving interest among Gen Z in pursuing practical, skill-based careers.

Through personal anecdotes, Joshua will highlight the challenges and triumphs of his career, including the high-impact success stories of his students who are breaking barriers and excelling in their fields.

We’ll also touch on the modern tools reshaping trade education, such as social media and virtual reality, and explore the critical need for stronger connections between industry leaders and educational institutions.

Stay tuned as Joshua also unveils his future plans for enhancing trade education, all while tackling the work-life balance challenges introduced by the pandemic.

Whether you're a trades professional, a student considering a vocational path, or simply curious about the skilled trades, this episode promises rich insights and motivating stories.

So, let's get started and dive into the life and lessons of Joshua O'neal – right here on "Lost Art of The Skilled Trades."

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Joshua O'neal, welding trade, apprenticeship program, social psychology, Barstow Community College, tenured instructor, industry and educational leaders, shortage of welders, trade schools enrollment, Instagram, TikTok, blue collar workers, skilled trades podcast, educational leadership, heavy mobile diesel mechanic, hydraulic shop, trade education, retiring baby boomers, technical knowledge, stigma surrounding trades, PR problem in trades, Gen Z interest, trade schools, virtual teaching, COVID-19, Zoom, Google Classroom, VR technology in education, welding wages, networking in trades.

In this episode, we have an insightful discussion on the evolving landscape of trades like welding. Today, we’re diving into how the industry is adapting to attract the younger generation, with a special focus on breaking down barriers for women in traditionally male-dominated fields.

Demi Knight Clark, a champion for empowering women in trades, shares her experiences and successes in launching initiatives that not only support and educate women in trades but also challenge stereotypes and change the narrative around career choices in skilled trades.

We'll explore how mentoring, proper facilities, and inclusive work environments can foster a new era of more diverse and dynamic trade professionals.

Our conversation also sheds light on the innovative approaches being implemented to engage young people, from using virtual reality in education to deploying gamification techniques at events like Fabtech.

Plus, we address the broader impact of these trades on society and the importance of rethinking traditional education pathways to include valuable life and soft skills.

From celebrating success stories to debating solutions for industry challenges, this episode is packed with thought-provoking insights and passionate calls to action. Whether you're a seasoned tradesperson or just curious about what the future holds for these crucial industries, this is an episode you won't want to miss!

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