The Lost Art Of the Skilled Trades

The U.S. needs 320,000 more welders by 2029 — and data centers are accelerating the shortage. UA Training Specialist Bob Derby joins Andrew Brown.There's a program most people in the trades have never heard of: the UA Welder Finishing School. It takes pipe welders with existing skills — from trade schools, non-union shops, or plant work — and gets them UA-certified and dispatched to a job in 8 weeks or less. At no cost to the individual. Meanwhile, data centers are creating a surge in piping and welding work that shows no sign of slowing. The labor market is wide open — and the UA wants to fill it.Bob Derby is a UA Training Specialist with nearly 30 years in the United Association of Journeymen and Apprentices of the Plumbing and Pipefitting Industry. He came up through the apprenticeship as a pipe welder, earned his certified welding inspector credentials, became an instructor, and eventually trained UA members across the country as a regional and national instructor. He now leads workforce development efforts and helped build the UA Welder Finishing School program.If you're a pipe welder working non-union and wondering whether the UA is an option — or a young person trying to figure out how to get in, what to earn, and how far you can go — this episode lays it out clearly and honestly.IN THIS EPISODE(00:00) – The 320K Welder Shortage: Bob opens with the scale of the workforce gap and explains why the UA is uniquely positioned to solve it — and why now is one of the best times ever to be entering the piping trades.(05:00) – How to Get Into the UA: The application process starts at UANet.org — no connections required. Bob explains what the interview actually looks like, what sets candidates apart, and what happens if you don't get in the first time.(12:00) – Wages, Benefits & the 5-Year Apprenticeship: Apprentices typically start at $20–25/hour with healthcare, pension, and 401k contributions from day one — and skilled journeymen can retire with $1.5–2M in their 401k.(19:00) – Mentorship: The People Who Shape a Career: Bob shares how a gruff journeyman named Al — who didn't want him around — became one of the most important mentors of his life, and what that story reveals about how apprenticeship actually works.(26:00) – Career Ladder Beyond the Journeyman Card: From foreman to instructor, certified welding inspector, training coordinator, and multi-craft superintendent — Bob traces a career path that started in a town of 643 people and led to teaching UA members across the country.(35:00) – Data Centers, Prefab Trends & the Welder Finishing School: The data center boom is driving massive demand for pipe welders right now. Bob explains how prefabrication is changing the trade — and breaks down the UA Welder Finishing School, a program that gets experienced pipe welders UA-certified and on a job site in 8 weeks or less.Key TakeawaysYou don't need to know anyone to get into the UA — start at UANet.org, find your local union, and apply. If you don't make it the first time, the door stays open and the local will tell you exactly where you fell short.UA apprentices start at $20–25/hour with full benefits, pension credits, and 401k contributions from day one — and those who start young can retire with $1.5–2M in their 401k, depending on their local and contract.We can train aptitude, but we can't train attitude — the most important things an apprentice brings to the interview and the job site are humility and eagerness to learn, not prior experience.The UA Welder Finishing School is a free, 8-week-or-less program for pipe welders with existing skills who want to get UA-certified and dispatched — including graduates of trade schools like Kentucky Welding Institute who come in test-ready and are often working within two or three weeks.About the GuestBob Derby is a UA Training Specialist with the United Association of Journeymen and Apprentices of the Plumbing and Pipefitting Industry. With nearly 30 years in the UA, he came up through the apprenticeship as a pipe welder, earned his Certified Welding Inspector credentials, became an instructor and training coordinator at his local union, and has taught regional and national courses — including the UA's Authorized Testing Representative and Certified Welding Inspector prep programs — to members across the country.Bob currently leads workforce development initiatives including the UA Welder Finishing School, a program designed to bring skilled pipe welders from outside the union into UA membership and into the workforce quickly. He is passionate about making the UA's career opportunities visible to the next generation of tradespeople.Keywordspipe welding career, UA union welding, pipe welder jobs, welding workforce shortage, united association, UA apprenticeship, journeyman welder, pipe fitter career, welder finishing school, UA certification, ASME welding, apprenticeship application, certified welding inspector, Bob Derby, United Association of Plumbers and Pipefitters, Kentucky Welding Institute, Local 577, UA Training Specialist, pipe fitting career, HVAC trades, plumbing career, data center construction, skilled trades career, welding shortage, Gen Z tradesRESOURCE LINKSBob Derby on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robert-derby/ United Association Website: https://ua.org/ Find Your Local Union: https://uanet.org/ Kentucky Welding Institute: https://kwi.us/SUPPORT THE SHOWIf you found value in this episode, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts and share it with someone who needs to hear it. Your support helps us keep telling the stories of the skilled trades.

Welding careers, welding apprenticeship programs, and the welding skills gap—Arc Junkies host Jason Becker breaks down what today’s welders need to know.Host Andrew Brown sits down with Jason Becker, Marine veteran, longtime welder, educator, and host of the Arc Junkies podcast, to explore the real-world journey from hands-on welding work to industry-wide storytelling and advocacy.This episode unpacks how years of hands-on welding experience shaped Jason’s voice as an industry advocate and podcast host—learning welding through repetition, hard work, and decades in the trade and how he went on to hosting his own podcast where he’s spent 450+ episodes amplifying honest conversations about welding careers, workforce development, and the growing welding skills gap.Together, Andrew and Jason break down what today’s welders need to know about welding apprenticeship programs, trade school for welding, mentorship, pay progression, and why the trades struggle to attract and retain the next generation. The conversation also highlights how platforms like the Arc Junkies podcast help reshape how young people view welding and the broader Skilled Trades.Whether you’re considering a career in welding, already working under the hood, or interested in how storytelling can influence the Trades Industry, this episode delivers grounded, experience-backed insight.IN THIS EPISODE(00:01) – From Under the Hood: Jason Becker’s welding origin story(07:45) – Military welding, ironwork, and decades in the field(16:10) – To the Mic: Taking over the Arc Junkies podcast(27:30) – Welding Apprenticeship Programs vs Trade School for Welding(40:50) – The Welding Skills Gap: pay, perception, and mentorship failures(55:40) – Why storytelling matters for the future of welding careersKey TakeawaysWelding careers are built through time under the hood—real skill takes repetition, patience, and mentorship.Welding apprenticeship programs and trade school for welding both play critical roles, depending on career goals and access.The welding skills gap is driven as much by culture, pay stagnation, and weak mentorship as by labor shortages.Moving from the shop floor to platforms like the Arc Junkies podcast shows how tradespeople can lead industry advocacy and education.About the GuestJason Becker is a Marine veteran, professional welder, educator, and host of the Arc Junkies podcast. With decades of experience in welding, construction, and workforce training, Jason has become a trusted voice in conversations around welding careers, skills development, and the future of the Skilled Trades. His work bridges hands-on craftsmanship with industry-wide storytelling and advocacy.KeywordsWelding Careers, Welding Apprenticeship Programs, Welding Skills Gap, Trade School for Welding, Arc Junkies Podcast, Skilled Trades, Trades Industry, Trades Careers, Tradespeople, Contractors, Industry Experts, Skilled Trades Advisory Council, Construction, Carpentry, HVAC, Electricians, Plumbers, Millwrights, Jason Becker, Andrew Brown, Arc Junkies, Toolfetch, Craftsmanship, Problem-solving, Creativity, Education, AdvocacyRESOURCE LINKSLinkedIn Profile: linkedin.com/in/jason-becker-45407b72Arc Junkies Podcast: https://arcjunkies.com/SUPPORT THE SHOW:If you’re getting value from these episodes and want to help keep the mics on, consider tipping the show here → https://andrewbrowntrades.kit.com/products/toolboxEvery dollar helps us keep bringing unfiltered insights from the trades, straight to your ears.

Aircraft maintenance is the backbone of aviation safety. Andrew Brown and Jason Pfaff break down the aircraft maintenance technician shortage, FAA A&P certification, and aviation careers.Host Andrew Brown sits down with Jason Pfaff, CEO of the Aviation Institute of Maintenance, to explore the unseen world of aircraft maintenance and why the growing aircraft maintenance technician shortage is becoming a serious issue across the aviation industry.They unpack what goes into keeping planes airworthy, why FAA A&P certification is one of the most rigorous credentials in the skilled trades, and how aviation maintenance school serves Gen Z, career changers, and hands-on problem solvers alike. The conversation also maps the long-term aviation mechanic career path, including pay progression, mobility, and opportunities beyond commercial airlines.This episode is essential listening for anyone curious about Skilled Trades, the Trades Industry, or high-impact careers built on craftsmanship, precision, and responsibility.IN THIS EPISODE(00:00) – Aircraft Maintenance Explained: What the public doesn’t see behind every flight(01:27) – The Aircraft Maintenance Technician Shortage: Why aviation is facing a workforce gap(08:17) – FAA A&P Certification: Why aviation mechanics are held to a higher standard(13:40) – Aviation Maintenance School: Program length, structure, and return on investment(18:56) – Career Placement & Mobility: Airlines, MROs, space, and advanced aerospace roles(26:05) – The Aviation Mechanic Career Path: Earnings, leadership tracks, and long-term growthKey TakeawaysAircraft maintenance is a highly coordinated, safety-critical system that most passengers never notice—until something goes wrong.The aircraft maintenance technician shortage is structural, driven by retirements, reduced trade pipelines, and rising travel demand.FAA A&P certification provides standardized credibility, portability, and strong employer demand across aviation and aerospace.An aviation maintenance school pathway offers a high-ROI skilled trade with a scalable aviation mechanic career path.About the GuestJason Pfaff is the CEO of the Aviation Institute of Maintenance, one of the nation’s largest aviation training organizations. He leads initiatives focused on workforce development, FAA-aligned education, and career placement across commercial aviation, MROs, and aerospace employers. Jason is a vocal advocate for Trades Careers, education access, and strengthening the skilled trades pipeline nationwide.KeywordsAircraft Maintenance, Aircraft Maintenance Technician Shortage, FAA A&P Certification, Aviation Maintenance School, Aviation Mechanic Career Path, Skilled Trades, Trades Industry, Trades Careers, Tradespeople, Craftsmanship, Problem-solving, Creativity, Advocacy, Education, Skilled Trades Advisory Council, Andrew Brown, Jason Pfaff, Aviation Institute of Maintenance, Carpentry, HVAC, Electricians, Plumbers, Millwrights, Construction, Contractors, Industry ExpertsRESOURCE LINKSLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-pfaff-210a3578/Website: https://aviationmaintenance.edu/SUPPORT THE SHOW:If you’re getting value from these episodes and want to help keep the mics on, consider tipping the show here → https://andrewbrowntrades.kit.com/products/toolboxEvery dollar helps us keep bringing unfiltered insights from the trades, straight to your ears.

Want to start a plumbing career? Charles Goede joins host Andrew Brown to break down trade school training, union apprenticeships, and the SkillsUSA competition.Host Andrew Brown sits down with Charles Goede , the U.S. competitor for WorldSkills Plumbing & Heating 2026, to explore how a young tradesperson rises through trade school training, excels in the SkillsUSA competition, and builds a long-term plumbing career.Charles opens up about mentors who shaped him, the reality of union apprenticeships, what it’s like to compete on a world stage, and how the skilled trades create life-changing opportunities—from travel to high-earning work to lifelong craftsmanship.Whether you’re curious about entering the trades industry, pursuing plumbing, or navigating union vs. non-union opportunities, this episode delivers raw, real-world insight from someone who’s lived it.IN THIS EPISODE(00:01) – Starting a Plumbing Career Through Trade School Training. How Charles discovered trade school training, joined SkillsUSA, and realized the skilled trades were the right path.(05:22) – SkillsUSA Competition: Pressure, Performance & Personal Growth. Charles explains competing at the SkillsUSA competition, winning Connecticut, and placing second in the nation—plus the nerves of performing in front of thousands.(12:18) – Family Influence, Mentorship & Finding the Right Trade. Why he chose a plumbing career over welding or electrical, and how mentors, teachers, and his cousin guided him through early decision-making.(18:40) – Big Mechanical Systems & Daily Problem-Solving in the Skilled Trades. A look at boilers, chillers, steam systems, blueprints, and why problem-solving is the heart of craftsmanship in the skilled trades.(24:50) – Union Apprenticeships: Pay, Benefits & How to Get In. Charles breaks down why he recommends union apprenticeships, how competitive they are, and how persistence helps apprentices get accepted.(32:15) – Preparing for WorldSkills 2026: Metric Systems, Training & Mental Toughness. Inside the intense world of WorldSkills: simulations, training on European plumbing systems, mental discipline, and representing the U.S. next year.KEY TAKEAWAYSTrade school training opens real pathways into high-earning, meaningful careers in the skilled trades.Union apprenticeships offer unmatched pay, training, and benefits, but require persistence and commitment.The SkillsUSA competition builds confidence, problem-solving skills, and exposure to elite craftsmanship.A successful plumbing career combines hands-on learning, mentorship, field experience, and adaptability—especially on major construction projects.ABOUT THE GUESTCharles Goede is a rising leader in America’s skilled trades and the official U.S. competitor for WorldSkills Plumbing & Heating 2026. After launching his plumbing career through trade school training, Charles excelled in the SkillsUSA competition, winning Connecticut and placing second nationally.A proud member of his union, he advocates strongly for union apprenticeships, hands-on education, and real-world mentorship while training full-time to compete on the world stage.KEYWORDSSkilled Trades, Plumbing Career, Union Apprenticeships, SkillsUSA Competition, Trade School Training, Trades Industry, Andrew Brown, Charles Goede, HVAC, Electricians, Plumbers, Carpentry, Millwrights, Construction, Craftsmanship, Problem-Solving, Creativity, Tradespeople, Advocacy, Trades Careers, Contractors, Industry Experts, Skilled Trades Advisory CouncilRESOURCE LINKSSkillsUSA: https://www.skillsusa.org/WorldSkills: https://worldskillsusa.org/SUPPORT THE SHOW:If you’re getting value from these episodes and want to help keep the mics on, consider tipping the show here → https://andrewbrowntrades.kit.com/products/toolboxEvery dollar helps us keep bringing unfiltered insights from the trades, straight to your ears.

Union-backed skilled trades careers create long-term opportunity. Tom Bigley joins host Andrew Brown to break down trade school options, union benefits, and how to launch a successful path in the trades industry.Host Andrew Brown sits down with Tom Bigley, Director of Plumbing Services for the United Association, to explore how today’s skilled trades careers really work—covering everything from plumbing union entry requirements to why modern apprenticeships and trade school pipelines offer unmatched union benefits and long-term security.Tom shares 40+ years of insights on recruitment, opportunities for women, career advancement, pension programs, and how the next generation can thrive across plumbing, welding, HVAC, carpentry, and other trades.Whether you’re a student, a parent, or someone considering a mid-life pivot into the skilled trades, this episode provides clear, real-world guidance from one of the most respected leaders in the trades industry.IN THIS EPISODE00:01 – Skilled Trades Benefits & Union Advantages: How pensions, healthcare, and union benefits make trades careers uniquely stable.04:18 – Plumbing Union Career Paths: Tom explains the United Association, leadership roles, and how the plumbing union builds future tradespeople.11:02 – What Makes Great Apprentices?: Communication, work ethic, and the essential soft skills behind successful apprenticeships.17:45 – Trade School & Technology Evolution: How modern trade school programs and training centers raise the bar for today’s skilled workers.25:30 – Recruiting Gen Z & Educating Parents: Why awareness of skilled trades benefits must start at home.34:40 – How to Join the Union: Step-By-Step: Application tips, timelines, requirements, and how anyone can begin a skilled trades career.KEY TAKEAWAYSApprenticeships in the plumbing union provide unmatched union benefits, from paid training to pensions and healthcare—making them one of the strongest entry points into the skilled trades.Trade school and apprenticeships create a debt-free, high-income pathway, often outperforming traditional college outcomes.The plumbing union develops more than just craft skills—it produces leaders, project managers, and industry innovators.Skilled trades careers offer stability, upward mobility, and real purpose, especially as labor shortages increase opportunities nationwide.ABOUT THE GUESTTom Bigley is the Director of Plumbing Services for the United Association, representing nearly 400,000 tradespeople across plumbing, HVAC, welding, sprinkler fitting, and pipeline work in the U.S. and Canada. With over 44 years in the skilled trades, Tom has served as a business manager, international leader, and Chairman of the World Plumbing Council. He is a lifelong advocate for apprenticeships, trade school pathways, strong union benefits, and building the future of the skilled trades workforce.KEYWORDS Skilled Trades, skilled trades careers, Plumbing Union, plumbing union benefits, Apprenticeships, apprenticeship programs, Trade School Training, union benefits, Trades Industry, Trades Careers, Tradespeople, Craftsmanship, Carpentry, HVAC, Electricians, Plumbers, Millwrights, Construction, Problem-solving, Creativity, Andrew Brown, Tom Bigley, Toolfetch, Plumbing Services of United Association, Industry Experts, Contractors, Skilled Trades Advisory Council, Education, Workforce Development, Labor Shortage Solutions, Union vs Non-UnionResource LinksWebsite: https://ua.org/plumbers/PHCC website: https//phccweb.orgPHCC membership web page: https//phccweb.org/membershipSUPPORT THE SHOW:If you’re getting value from these episodes and want to help keep the mics on, consider tipping the show here → https://andrewbrowntrades.kit.com/products/toolboxEvery dollar helps us keep bringing unfiltered insights from the trades, straight to your ears.

Electrician apprenticeship, union vs non-union electricians, and the career change to trades — a story for anyone wondering if it’s too late to start over.Host Andrew Brown sits down with Brandon McKane, a former Trader Joe’s manager who walked away from corporate life at 36 to begin an electrician apprenticeship and rebuild his life in the skilled trades industry.With over 80,000 electricians needed every year through 2030, Brandon’s journey offers a real-world look at why so many people are leaving their desks behind for hands-on work — and how a career change to trades can bring purpose, stability, and pride.They talk about the emotional and financial leap of starting over, the reality of apprentice pay, what it’s like to explain the shift to your family, and how the right mentors can change everything. Brandon also shares the unfiltered truth about the union vs non-union electrician experience, and what it takes to go from shop helper to journeyman.IN THIS EPISODE: 00:00 – The electrician shortage: why 80,000 are needed every year02:35 – Meet Brandon McKane: from Trader Joe’s to trades07:10 – The pay cut, the leap, and family conversations12:42 – Apprenticeship reality: pay, training, and safety19:18 – Union vs non-union: pros, cons, and real numbers25:36 – Mentorship and learning from journeymen32:10 – Social media’s impact on the new generation of tradespeople38:20 – Why it’s never too late to start over44:55 – The future of electrification and opportunityKEY TAKEAWAYS:Why America needs 80,000 electricians a year — and where that demand is coming fromHow Brandon left a 15-year corporate career to start over at 36The truth about apprentice pay vs. long-term earningsUnion vs non-union electricians: what he learned on both sidesHow tradespeople often earn more than many white-collar careersThe mindset shift: finding purpose, progress, and pride in hands-on workWhy mentorship and the right foreman can change your lifeHow the trades can become more welcoming to everyoneWhy it’s never too late for a career change to tradesABOUT THE GUEST:Brandon McKane is a non-union apprentice electrician at Sunlight & Power (Berkeley, CA). After 15+ years in retail management, he made a career change to trades, attends night classes, and works on prevailing-wage solar projects. He’s passionate about safety, mentorship, craftsmanship, and helping others navigate how to become an electrician through the electrician apprenticeship route—union or non-union.KEYWORDS:electrician apprenticeship, skilled trades careers, electrician shortage 2030, union vs non-union electricians, career change to trades, Skilled Trades, Trades Industry, Andrew Brown, Brandon McKane, Toolfetch, Carpentry, HVAC, Electricians, Plumbers, Millwrights, Construction, Craftsmanship, Problem-solving, Creativity, Tradespeople, Advocacy, Trades Careers, Industry Experts, Contractors, Education, Skilled Trades Advisory CouncilRESOURCE LINKS:LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandonjmckane/overlay/photo/SUPPORT THE SHOW:If you’re getting value from these episodes and want to help keep the mics on, consider tipping the show here → https://andrewbrowntrades.kit.com/products/toolboxEvery dollar helps us keep bringing unfiltered insights from the trades, straight to your ears.

Welding careers, skilled trades, and welding apprenticeship programs take center stage as Andrew Brown sits down with John King of JK Welding at the FABTECH welding expo.Host Andrew Brown explores how welding careers grow through passion, not just pay, and why Skilled Trades like construction, HVAC, plumbing, and carpentry remain the backbone of the Trades Industry. From welding apprenticeship programs to pipeline welding jobs, John King shares his real-world lessons on leadership, craftsmanship, and mentoring the next generation of tradespeople.If you’re curious about trades careers, the Skilled Trades Advisory Council, or how to scale a fabrication business like JK Welding, this episode delivers practical guidance for aspiring industry experts, contractors, and hands-on creators.IN THIS EPISODE:(00:00) – Welding Careers & Passion: Why passion fuels long-term success in the Skilled Trades and welding careers more than money ever could.(07:45) – Gen Z & Apprenticeship Programs: How to build a stronger welding apprenticeship pipeline and inspire new tradespeople through education.(16:20) – Is Welding a Dying Trade?: The truth about the Trades Industry shortage and how pipeline welding jobs offer growth opportunities.(24:05) – From Welder to Entrepreneur: John King on building JK Welding, scaling with craftsmanship, and leading skilled contractors.(33:10) – Career Growth Paths: How trades careers in construction, millwrighting, and electricians compare to pipeline welding jobs for earning potential.(42:30) – Skilled Trades Advocacy: How the Skilled Trades Advisory Council, Toolfetch, and industry experts strengthen education across the trades.KEY TAKEAWAYS:● Welding careers begin with passion. The most successful tradespeople master craftsmanship, problem-solving, and creativity before chasing paychecks.● Welding apprenticeship programs are the cornerstone of education in the Trades Industry, helping Gen Z build lifelong trades careers.● Pipeline welding jobs and field work can lead to six-figure incomes—but balance matters for family life and stability.● Collaboration among industry experts, contractors, Toolfetch, and the Skilled Trades Advisory Council drives advocacy and long-term sustainability for the Skilled Trades.ABOUT THE GUEST:John King, founder and CEO of JK Welding, transformed his love for welding into one of Texas’s leading fabrication shops. A self-taught entrepreneur, John built his company on craftsmanship, problem-solving, and mentorship—helping grow welding apprenticeship opportunities for the next generation of tradespeople. His leadership in the Trades Industry has made him a respected voice for education, advocacy, and Skilled Trades innovation showcased at the FABTECH welding expo.Keywords Welding Careers, Skilled Trades, Welding Apprenticeship, Pipeline Welding Jobs, FABTECH Welding Expo, Trades Industry, Construction, Carpentry, HVAC, Electricians, Plumbers, Millwrights, Contractors, Industry Experts, Craftsmanship, Problem-Solving, Creativity, Tradespeople, Education, AdvocacyResource Links: LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-king-15675117/Website: https://jkwelding.net/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jkwelding/SUPPORT THE SHOW:If you’re getting value from these episodes and want to help keep the mics on, consider tipping the show here → https://andrewbrowntrades.kit.com/products/toolboxEvery dollar helps us keep bringing unfiltered insights from the trades, straight to your ears.

What would you do with $50 million? Lowe’s decided to invest it into the future of the skilled trades—training 50,000 people for careers in plumbing, welding, electrical, HVAC, and more.Host Andrew Brown sits down with Betsy Conway, Director of the Lowe’s Foundation, to explore how skilled trades careers are being shaped by Lowe’s Foundation grants, plumbing apprenticeship programs, and SkillsUSA training programs. They dive deep into how nonprofits, community colleges, and industry experts are tackling the welding workforce shortage, empowering new electricians, plumbers, carpenters, HVAC techs, and contractors.Whether you’re just starting in the trades industry or looking to grow, this episode delivers insights into mentorship, craftsmanship, problem-solving, and trades careers advocacy that define the future of the skilled trades.IN THIS EPISODE:● (00:00) – Skilled Trades Careers Overview: Why the trades industry needs plumbers, electricians, carpenters, and HVAC pros now more than ever.● (02:15) – Lowe’s Foundation Grants: Investing $50M to train 50,000 people for rewarding trades careers.● (08:40) – Welding Workforce Shortage: Why the U.S. needs 320,000 welders by 2029 and how SkillsUSA training programs are stepping in.● (15:10) – Plumbing Apprenticeship Programs: How mentorship, apprenticeships, and education change lives.● (23:30) – Education & Access: Mobile training labs bringing opportunity to underserved communities.● (35:55) – Tools of the Trade Advice: Betsy Conway’s no-limits mindset for aspiring tradespeople.Key Takeaways:● Lowe’s Foundation grants are fueling innovation at community colleges and nonprofits, making skilled trades careers more accessible.● The welding workforce shortage is real—hundreds of thousands of welders are needed, and SkillsUSA training programs are preparing the next generation● Plumbing apprenticeship programs and mentorship create viable career paths for women, career changers, and young professionals.● Success in the trades industry relies on craftsmanship, creativity, advocacy, and strong peer networks of tradespeople.About the Guest:Betsy Conway is the Director of the Lowe’s Foundation, where she leads initiatives to tackle America’s skilled trades workforce crisis. Through strategic Lowe’s Foundation grants and partnerships with nonprofits, community colleges, and SkillsUSA training programs, she helps create accessible plumbing apprenticeship programs, addresses the welding workforce shortage, and champions opportunities for future electricians, carpenters, HVAC techs, contractors, and millwrights.Keywords:Skilled Trades Careers, Lowe’s Foundation Grants, Plumbing Apprenticeship Programs, Welding Workforce Shortage, SkillsUSA Training Programs, Skilled Trades, Trades Industry, Carpentry, HVAC, Electricians, Plumbers, Millwrights, Construction, Contractors, Tradespeople, Andrew Brown, Betsy Conway, Lowes Foundation, Toolfetch, Skilled Trades Advisory Council, Industry Experts, Advocacy, Craftsmanship, Problem-Solving, Creativity, Education, Mentorship, Trades Careers GrowthResource Links:Linkedin Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/betsy-conway/Lowe’s Foundation: https://lowesfoundation.orgInstagram: @LowesFoundationSUPPORT THE SHOW:If you’re getting value from these episodes and want to help keep the mics on, consider tipping the show here → https://andrewbrowntrades.kit.com/products/toolboxEvery dollar helps us keep bringing unfiltered insights from the trades, straight to your ears.