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250 to 1.5K🎙 ~2x weekly·87 episodes·Last published 6d ago - Monthly Reach
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On the show
From 15 epsHost
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Recent episodes
Why Apprentices Quit in the First 30 Days with Glenda Rahn
Jun 23, 2026
Unknown duration
Aircraft Mechanics Are in Massive Demand—Why Aren't More People Entering the Industry? | Bret Oestreich, AMFA
Jun 16, 2026
Unknown duration
Why Young Workers and Employers Can't Understand Each Other
Jun 9, 2026
38m 09s
They Sign Off So You Can Take Off: Inside Aircraft Maintenance with Evita Garces
Jun 2, 2026
27m 15s
The Military-Style Trade School Changing the Workforce Game
May 26, 2026
34m 14s
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| Date | Episode | Topics | Guests | Brands | Places | Keywords | Sponsor | Length | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6/23/26 | ![]() Why Apprentices Quit in the First 30 Days with Glenda Rahn | Glenda Rahn, Director of Workforce Development at Merit Ontario, reveals why skilled trades companies lose new apprentices in the first 30 days — and what to do about it.Every contractor says the same thing: "We can't find people." But Glenda Rahn has seen something different on the ground — and it's not a recruitment problem. It's a retention problem. Companies bring in new hires who are excited on day one and then fail to give them what they need to stay: clear expectations, a real mentor, and a reason to belong.Glenda is the Director of Workforce Development at Merit Ontario, where she works directly with construction contractors and apprentices across Ontario to fix the workforce pipeline from the inside out. She's spent years doing individual coaching calls with candidates, building mentorship frameworks, and having hard conversations with employers about what they're doing wrong — and what actually works.If you're a contractor struggling to keep new hires, a young person trying to break into the trades, or an industry leader who wants to understand Gen Z on the jobsite, this episode is packed with practical insight you can put to work today.IN THIS EPISODE(00:00) – The Real Problem Is Retention: Most companies focus on recruitment, but Glenda says the real workforce crisis is what happens after someone gets hired.(01:45) – Onboarding Breakdown: The first 30 days are make-or-break — here's why new apprentices walk out the back door before they ever hit the 60-day mark.(03:10) – What Good Mentorship Actually Looks Like: It's not just having a senior person nearby — it's emotional intelligence, clear communication, and the willingness to share knowledge on purpose.(05:45) – Gen Z vs. Older Generations: Andrew and Glenda dig into whether Gen Z has changed the game, or whether the industry just hasn't caught up to how this generation works.(12:45) – The Experience Catch-22: Companies say they need people but require 3–5 years of experience. Glenda shares what new entrants like Troy can actually do to break through.(19:45) – What Contractors Get Completely Wrong About Gen Z: The "lazy" label isn't accurate — and the contractors who believe it are the ones struggling most with retention right now.Key TakeawaysThe workforce shortage is a retention problem first — most companies lose new apprentices within 30 days because onboarding is broken, expectations are unclear, and no one is taking real ownership of mentorship.A good mentor needs emotional intelligence, not just technical skill — knowing each person by name, checking in during the first 60 to 90 days, and creating a genuine sense of belonging is what separates high-retention companies from those that can't hold anyone.Gen Z's work ethic hasn't disappeared — it's showing up differently. They're hustling online, building side projects, and demanding purpose and a clear path forward. Contractors who take the time to understand that will keep them; those who don't will keep losing them.New entrants trying to break into the trades need to stop relying on Indeed and start pounding the pavement — call companies directly, ask who hires entry-level apprentices, volunteer with organizations like Habitat for Humanity to build a track record, and treat networking like 50% of your career depends on it, because it does.About the GuestGlenda Rahn is the Director of Workforce Development at Merit Ontario, a leading open-shop contractors association supporting construction employers across Ontario. With a background in apprenticeship programming, career services, and youth workforce development, Glenda works at the intersection of employer needs and candidate readiness — helping companies build better hiring, onboarding, and mentorship practices that actually retain people.At Merit Ontario, Glenda is developing a group sponsor apprenticeship program that is already achieving 88% retention and on-time completion rates — a result that proves the workforce pipeline can be fixed when the right systems are in place.Keywordsskilled trades retention, apprentice onboarding, workforce development, trades mentorship, Gen Z in the trades, construction workforce, apprenticeship program, entry-level apprentice, skilled trades career, construction industry retention, workforce pipeline, plumber apprentice, construction contractor, trade school, journeyman mentor, Glenda Rahn, Merit Ontario, Andrew Brown, Lost Art of the Skilled TradesRESOURCE LINKSGlenda Rahn on LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/glenda-rahn-99964089Merit Ontario Website: https://www.meritontario.comSUPPORT 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. | — | ||||||
| 6/16/26 | ![]() Aircraft Mechanics Are in Massive Demand—Why Aren't More People Entering the Industry? | Bret Oestreich, AMFA | Aircraft maintenance technician Bret Oestreich on signing off 250 lives every night shift — and why aviation's most essential trade stays hidden.Every time you board a plane, someone signed their name to a document saying that aircraft is airworthy. That person is an Aircraft Maintenance Technician — and most passengers never see them, never think about them, and never know they exist. Bret Oestreich, National President of AMFA (Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association), has spent decades inside this world. He started on C-130s in the Air Force, earned his A&P license and pilot's license simultaneously, and worked his way from general aviation to American Airlines to Southwest Airlines before leading one of the most important independent unions in aviation.AMFA represents over 7,500 AMTs across the United States and Canada — and Bret is sounding the alarm: the pipeline of new technicians is not keeping up with retirements, only 8% of military veterans with relevant experience are transitioning into civilian aviation maintenance, and women represent just 2.8% of the AMT workforce. Meanwhile, the job demands more than most people realize — technical knowledge, soft skills, and the integrity to do the right thing at 3am when nobody's watching.If you're a young person who's never heard of this career, a veteran unsure how to translate your skills, or anyone who wants to understand what it actually takes to keep planes flying — this episode is for you.IN THIS EPISODE(00:00) – The Invisible Workforce: Why aircraft maintenance technicians are the most essential people on the tarmac that nobody ever sees — and why that invisibility is the industry's biggest recruitment problem.(01:00) – Soft Skills vs. Tech Skills: What Bret says new AMTs are most unprepared for, why Gen Z's lack of hands-on mechanical experience is a real challenge, and why humility matters more than technical knowledge on day one.(04:35) – The Visibility Problem: How AMFA is trying to reach younger generations through grade school events, aviation days, and votech programs — and why you can't wait until high school to plant the seed.(09:15) – Bret's Career Story: From working on rusted leaf springs in Minnesota to C-130s in the Air Force, then general aviation, American Airlines, and Southwest — how Bret built a career no one told him was possible.(12:41) – The Military-to-AMT Pipeline: Why only 8% of vets with aviation maintenance experience transition into civilian AMT roles, what the SkillBridge program is doing to help, and why earning the A&P license requires planning two years before separation — not six months.(30:08) – Knowledge, Skill, Integrity: What it's actually like to sign off on a commercial aircraft at 3am under pressure from the airline, and why AMFA's three-word code is the only thing standing between corner-cutting and catastrophe.Key TakeawaysAircraft maintenance technicians are invisible by design — passengers see pilots and flight attendants, but AMTs work overnight while planes are grounded, which is exactly why awareness campaigns have to start in grade school, not high school.Only 8% of military veterans with aviation maintenance experience transition into civilian AMT careers — largely because no one tells them how, and the A&P licensing process requires proactive planning at least two years before leaving the military.When AMTs are surveyed about what they want from employers, pay ranks first — but quality of life, scheduling flexibility, and culture follow close behind, and many workers say they'll accept less pay for more respect and control over their schedule.AMFA's guiding principle — knowledge, skill, integrity — means doing the job right even when the airline is pushing for a faster turnaround and no one is watching, because the person who signs off on that aircraft is personally accountable for every passenger on board.About the GuestBret Oestreich is the National President of AMFA, the Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association — the only independent craft union in North America exclusively representing aircraft maintenance technicians. AMFA represents approximately 5,500 AMTs at U.S. carriers including Southwest Airlines, Alaska Airlines, Horizon Airlines, Spirit, and Sun Country, and recently expanded into Canada with over 2,000 members at carriers including WestJet and Jazz.Bret's career as an AMT began in the U.S. Air Force, where he worked on C-130 cargo and special operations aircraft as both a crew chief and technician. He later earned his Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) license and private pilot certificate simultaneously before moving into general aviation and commercial aviation at American Airlines and Southwest Airlines. Under his leadership, AMFA has grown from 4,000 to 7,500+ members and made history as the only trade union certified for aircraft maintenance engineers in Canada.Keywordsaircraft maintenance technician, AMT career, aviation maintenance, airframe and powerplant license, A&P license, aircraft mechanic, aviation workforce shortage, AMFA, Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association, Bret Oestreich, SkillBridge program, military to civilian transition, skilled trades aviation, aviation mechanic salary, Gen Z skilled trades, votech aviation, aviation industry careers, aircraft mechanic jobs, aviation apprenticeship, Andrew Brown, The Lost Art of the Skilled TradesRESOURCE LINKSBret Oestreich on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bret-oestreich-ba41b550AMFA National Website: https://www.amfanational.orgAMFA Delivers: https://amfadelivers.orgSUPPORT 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. | — | ||||||
| 6/9/26 | ![]() Why Young Workers and Employers Can't Understand Each Other✨ | Gen Z in the workforceearning trust+3 | Liam McComas | Neumann BrothersMaster Builders of Iowa | Des Moines, IowaUniversity of Northern Iowa | Gen Ztrust+5 | — | 38m 09s | |
| 6/2/26 | ![]() They Sign Off So You Can Take Off: Inside Aircraft Maintenance with Evita Garces✨ | aircraft maintenancecareer development+3 | Evita Garces | American Airlines | New York CityAviation High School | aircraft maintenanceA&P license+3 | — | 27m 15s | |
| 5/26/26 | ![]() The Military-Style Trade School Changing the Workforce Game✨ | skilled tradesworkforce development+4 | Rob Holmes | ForgeNowDepartment of Defense | TexasDallas | skilled tradesHVAC+7 | — | 34m 14s | |
| 5/19/26 | ![]() Why Aviation Maintenance Is the Next Generation's Best-Kept Career Secret | Jennifer Radtke, Boeing✨ | aviation maintenancecareer opportunities+3 | Jennifer Radtke | Boeing | — | aviation maintenancemechanic shortage+5 | — | 31m 39s | |
| 5/12/26 | ![]() Data Centers Are Booming and Pipe Welders Are in Demand — Here's How to Get In✨ | weldingdata centers+4 | Bob Derby | United Association of Journeymen and Apprentices of the Plumbing and Pipefitting Industry | — | weldersdata centers+5 | — | 49m 16s | |
| 5/5/26 | ![]() Inside Aircraft Maintenance Careers: Pay, Pathways & the Fight to Keep Talent (with AMFA)✨ | aircraft maintenancecareer pathways+4 | Rob Cush | AMFASouthwest Airlines | Capitol Hill | aircraft maintenance technicianaviation careers+6 | — | 41m 16s | |
| 4/28/26 | ![]() What SkillsUSA Builds That Employers Actually Need | Serenity Satterfield✨ | tradespeople skillsworkforce development+4 | Serenity Satterfield | SkillsUSA | San Bernardino, CaliforniaCapitol Hill | SkillsUSAtrades+6 | — | 49m 23s | |
| 4/21/26 | ![]() Everyone Talks About Supporting the Trades. SupplyHouse Actually Does It✨ | skilled tradesscholarships+3 | Christine Boehm | SupplyHouse.comSupply House Foundation | HVACelectrical+2 | skilled tradesscholarships+5 | — | 45m 01s | |
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| 4/14/26 | ![]() What the Trades Don't See (But We Do) | Aaron Witt, BuildWitt✨ | tradesworkforce development+3 | Aaron Witt | BuildWitt | — | tradesinvisibility+5 | — | 56m 54s | |
| 3/31/26 | ![]() What Happens After 30 Years in the Trades? | Herb Sargent✨ | workforce developmenttrades education+4 | Herb Sargent | Sargent Corporation | Maine | workforcetrades+7 | — | 38m 42s | |
| 3/24/26 | 300,000 Welders Short and It's Getting Worse✨ | welder shortageskilled trades+5 | Kris Scherm | ESABAmerican Welding Society | Denton, TexasBay Bridge+3 | weldingwelder shortage+6 | — | 34m 01s | |
| 3/17/26 | Sarah Stork Started Welding at 32… Now She Builds Steel Sculptures✨ | weldingmetal art+3 | Sarah Stork | SkillsUSAAustin Community College | Georgetown, Texas | weldingmetal sculpture+3 | — | 38m 21s | |
| 2/24/26 | Why HVAC Technicians Can’t Afford to Skip Steps Anymore | Jay Henderek, ESAB✨ | HVACSkilled Trades+4 | Jay Henderek | ESAB | — | HVACnitrogen purging+5 | — | 18m 54s | |
| 2/17/26 | Why the Best Tradesmen Never Cut Corners with John Henderson of ESAB✨ | tradesmenbrazing+5 | John Henderson | ESAB | — | brazing best practicesnitrogen purge brazing+7 | — | 21m 52s | |
| 2/4/26 | Why Some People Succeed in the Trades — And Others Don’t✨ | skilled tradesplumbing apprenticeships+3 | Tony Bertolino | plumbingpublic health | — | skilled tradesplumbing+6 | — | 32m 14s | |
| 1/27/26 | What Actually Separates the Best Plumbers (Character Over Skill) | Before skill, before technology, trades careers are built on responsibility and showing up.Andrew Brown and Dan Callies, President of Oak Creek Plumbing, break down what actually sustains blue-collar careers: character, mentorship, and earned respect.Andrew and Dan explore how plumbing apprenticeships develop more than technical skill, why hire for character, train for skill remains a durable leadership principle, and what it really takes to grow from apprentice to journeyman to business owner. Drawing from decades in the field and in leadership, Dan explains how accountability, attitude, and consistency shape long-term success in the trades.The conversation also examines the AI impact on skilled trades, not as a threat to craftsmanship, but as a tool to support efficiency, diagnostics, training, and operations. Dan shares how Oak Creek Plumbing uses technology to digitize routine processes while preserving the human judgment required for hands-on problem-solving.Whether you’re considering skilled trades careers, currently in a plumbing apprenticeship, leading blue collar teams, or trying to understand how AI fits into construction and contracting, this episode delivers experience-backed insight from someone who has built both people and businesses in the trades.IN THIS EPISODE(00:00) – Skilled Trades Careers Today: Why the trades remain the backbone of the economy(06:10) – Hire for Character, Train for Skill: What leaders actually look for on job sites(14:45) – Plumbing Apprenticeships Explained: Earning while learning and building mastery(24:30) – The AI Impact on Skilled Trades: Digitize what you can, humanize what you must(35:50) – Blue Collar Careers vs College Debt: Time, patience, and long-term payoff(49:20) – Advice for Young People Entering Skilled Trades Careers TodayKey TakeawaysSkilled trades careers are built through consistency, responsibility, and showing up, before skill ever takes over.A plumbing apprenticeship develops technical ability, discipline, and leadership over time.Hiring for character and training for skill creates stronger tradespeople and healthier companies.The AI impact on skilled trades improves efficiency and training but cannot replace hands-on judgment or craftsmanship.About the GuestDan Callies is the President of Oak Creek Plumbing and a second-generation plumber with decades of experience in the field and in leadership. He has worked through every stage of the trade, from apprenticeship to ownership, and remains deeply involved in mentorship, workforce development, and industry advocacy.Dan is a strong proponent of apprenticeship training, union education, and responsible technology adoption. He believes the future of blue collar work depends on character, accountability, and leaders willing to invest in people over time.KeywordsSkilled Trades Careers, Plumbing Apprenticeship, Hire for Character Train for Skill, Blue Collar Leadership, AI Impact on Skilled Trades, Skilled Trades, Trades Industry, Trades Careers, Tradespeople, Contractors, Construction, Craftsmanship, Problem-solving, Plumbers, Electricians, HVAC, Carpentry, Millwrights, Andrew Brown, Dan Callies, Oak Creek Plumbing, Toolfetch, Skilled Trades Advisory CouncilRESOURCE LINKSLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-callies-6a641613/Website: https://www.oakcreekplumbing.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. | — | ||||||
| 1/20/26 | Why Welding Is Losing Young Talent (And How to Fix It) | 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. | — | ||||||
| 1/13/26 | You’re Not Who We Want Out Here: A Woman’s Reality in the Skilled Trades | The first thing a superintendent said to Valerie Butler on a jobsite was: ‘You’re not who we want out here.’”Host Andrew Brown sits down with Valerie Butler, a plumbing apprentice at P.I.P.E. Incorporated, to explore how to build a successful plumbing career path in today’s skilled trades industry. Valerie shares her journey from the Marine Corps to a hands-on plumbing apprenticeship, offering real insight into military to trades career transitions, job site realities, and the value of skilled trades mentorship.This episode takes an honest look at what it’s like being one of the first women in a company’s apprenticeship program, how plumbers actually get started without industry connections, and why the trades offer long-term opportunity without college debt. If you’re exploring women in the skilled trades, considering a plumbing apprenticeship, or looking for a proven plumbing career path, this conversation delivers practical guidance from someone living it.IN THIS EPISODE(00:01) – From Military to Trades Career: How Valerie transitioned from the Marine Corps into a plumbing apprenticeship(07:58) – Plumbing Apprenticeship 101: How to get hired, what first-year plumbers actually do(15:40) – Women in the Skilled Trades: Navigating job sites, skepticism, and earning respect(26:22) – Skilled Trades Mentorship: Why the right foreman changes everything(35:55) – Plumbing Career Path & Pay Progression: Apprentice wages vs journeyman income(47:30) – Advice for Gen Z & Career Changers: How to test trades careers without long-term risk Key TakeawaysA plumbing apprenticeship provides paid education and long-term career security without student loan debt.Women in the skilled trades are reshaping construction culture through planning, leadership, and problem-solving.Military to trades career transitions offer a strong advantage, especially in discipline, confidence, and adaptability.Skilled trades mentorship accelerates learning, builds confidence, and shortens the path to mastery. About the GuestValerie Butler is a plumbing apprentice at P.I.P.E. Incorporated and a passionate advocate for women in the skilled trades. After leaving the Marine Corps due to injury, Valerie pursued a plumbing apprenticeship, proving that a military to trades career can lead to stability, growth, and fulfillment.As one of the first women apprentices in her company, Valerie actively supports skilled trades mentorship, participates in career fairs, and uses LinkedIn to help more women explore sustainable plumbing career paths in the trades industry.KeywordsWomen in the Skilled Trades, Plumbing Apprenticeship, Military to Trades Career, Skilled Trades Mentorship, Plumbing Career Path, Skilled Trades, Trades Industry, Andrew Brown, Valerie Butler, P.I.P.E. Incorporated, Toolfetch, Plumbers, Electricians, HVAC, Carpentry, Millwrights, Construction, Trades Careers, Tradespeople, Craftsmanship, Problem-solving, Creativity, Advocacy, Contractors, Industry Experts, Education, Skilled Trades Advisory CouncilRESOURCE LINKSWebsite: https://pipeinc.net/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. | — | ||||||
| 1/6/26 | ![]() How to Build a Career in Aircraft Maintenance (FAA Certified, In-Demand) | 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. | — | ||||||
| 12/30/25 | ![]() Welding Workforce Shortage: How to Get Into the Welding Trade & Where Welding Jobs Are Headed | Host Andrew Brown tackles the growing welding workforce shortage and explains why it’s one of the most urgent challenges facing the construction and skilled trades industries today. As experienced tradespeople retire and fewer young workers enter the pipeline, the future of welding jobs in the U.S. hangs in the balance.Andrew breaks down how to get into the welding trade, why traditional advice is failing Gen Z, and what’s missing from today’s education system. He explores skilled trades careers for Gen Z, highlighting how craftsmanship, problem-solving, and creativity are being overlooked in favor of outdated college-only narratives.The episode also compares welder apprenticeship vs trade school, showing contractors, parents, and young workers how to evaluate real career pathways not marketing promises. Along the way, Andrew ties welding to the broader ecosystem of carpentry, HVAC, electricians, plumbers, millwrights, and the entire trades industry, calling for stronger advocacy and leadership from industry experts, contractors, and organizations like the Skilled Trades Advisory Council.IN THIS EPISODE(00:00) Why This Episode Matters: The Welding Workforce Shortage & AWS Summit Context (02:19) 9/11, the Trades, and Why This Mission Became Personal (05:13) From IT to Trades Advocacy: Building Toolfetch and Telling Trade Stories (07:28) Why Gen Z Isn’t Entering the Trades: Shop Class, Guidance Counselors, and Perception (09:47) Trade School vs Reality: Barriers to Entry and Early-Career Frustration (11:49) How to Get Into the Welding Trade: Standing Out, Follow-Up, and Personal Branding (14:17) The Future of Welding Jobs in the U.S. and Why AI Won’t Replace the Trades (16:44) Final Advice: Earning Your Stripes, Staying Patient, and Building a CareerKEY TAKEAWAYSThe welding workforce shortage is a long-term structural problem driven by retirements, broken education pipelines, and poor messaging.The future of welding jobs in the U.S. remains strong, stable, and essential to construction, infrastructure, and manufacturing.Choosing between welder apprenticeship vs trade school depends on mentorship, employer commitment, and real job placement—not tuition price alone.Skilled trades careers for Gen Z must be reframed around purpose, creativity, problem-solving, and long-term opportunity.KEYWORDS:Welding workforce shortage, How to get into the welding trade, Skilled trades careers for Gen Z, Welder apprenticeship vs trade school, Future of welding jobs in the U.S., Carpentry, HVAC, Electricians, Plumbers, Millwrights, Construction, Craftsmanship, Problem-solving, Creativity, Tradespeople, Advocacy, Trades Careers, Industry Experts, Contractors, Education, Skilled Trades Advisory CouncilABOUT THE HOSTAndrew Brown is the host of The Lost Art of the Skilled Trades podcast and the founder of Trades Media. He works with industry leaders, educators, and employers to close the skilled trades workforce gap by telling real, on-the-job stories that resonate with the next generation. Andrew focuses full-time on elevating trades careers through podcasting, keynote speaking, and live event activations across North America.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. | — | ||||||
| 12/9/25 | ![]() Plumbing, Pressure & Competition: Lessons from A WorldSkills Competitor with Charles Goede | 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. | — | ||||||
| 12/2/25 | ![]() The Truth About Plumbing Careers — Purpose, Pay & Starting at 40 | Career change at 40? Learn how skilled trades careers, plumbing apprenticeships, and the Trade Up Program help adults start working with your hands.Host Andrew Brown sits down with Lixil America’s Senior National Sales Trainer Vinny Arnese to unpack what it really looks like to make a career change at 40, begin a plumbing apprenticeship, join the Skilled Trades, or shift into a hands-on career through the Trade Up Program.They break down the rising demand for skilled trades careers, why so many people over 40 are ditching white-collar stress for working with your hands, and how Lixil’s national initiatives support contractors, educators, and the next generation through real advocacy.Whether you're exploring a career change at 40, researching skilled trades careers, or considering a plumbing apprenticeship, this episode delivers grounded advice, personal stories, and real industry insight you won’t hear anywhere else.IN THIS EPISODE:● (00:00) – Why Skilled Trades Careers Are Exploding: Demand, wages, and why more people make a career change at 40.● (04:52) – Is It Too Late at 40? Real stories of adults shifting careers and finally enjoying working with your hands.● (10:41) – Inside the Trade Up Program: How Lixil America is reshaping pathways into skilled trades careers through advocacy & education.● (18:22) – What a Plumbing Apprenticeship Really Looks Like: Earn-while-you-learn, tuition support, and contractor pathways.● (25:55) – Gen Z, School Counselors & Trades Education: Why the industry needs more structured messaging and exposure.● (32:14) – Purpose & Fulfillment Through Hands-On Work: Problem-solving, craftsmanship, and why working with your hands transforms lives.Key Takeaways:● A career change at 40 is not only realistic—it’s becoming one of the fastest-growing entry points into skilled trades careers.● A plumbing apprenticeship gives you paid training, fast advancement, and long-term job security without student debt.● Lixil America’s Trade Up Program is helping adults and students find real pathways into the trades through advocacy and hands-on exposure.● Working with your hands offers creativity, purpose, problem-solving, and financial stability in a way many white-collar roles no longer provide.About the Guest Vinny Arnese is the Senior National Sales Trainer for Lixil America, representing American Standard, GROHE, and DXV. He leads Lixil’s nationwide Trade Up Program, an initiative designed to close the talent gap by guiding students, adults, contractors, and educators toward skilled trades careers—including mechanical, plumbing, HVAC, electricians, millwrights, and construction.A passionate advocate for the Skilled Trades, Vinny works closely with educators, unions, contractors, and industry experts. His mission is to help anyone—from high school students to those making a career change at 40—discover the stability and fulfillment of working with your hands through training, mentorship, and access to proper education pathways like a plumbing apprenticeship.Keywords Career Change at 40, Skilled Trades Careers, Plumbing Apprenticeship, Trade Up Program, Working With Your Hands, Skilled Trades, Trades Industry, Andrew Brown, Vinny Arnese, Lixil, Lixil America, Toolfetch, Carpentry, HVAC, Electricians, Plumbers, Millwrights, Construction, Craftsmanship, Problem-Solving, Creativity, Tradespeople, Advocacy, Trades Careers, Contractors, Industry Experts, Education, Skilled Trades Advisory CouncilResource Links:Linkedin Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vinny-arnese-7a71006b/Lixil Website: https://www.lixil.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. | — | ||||||
| 11/18/25 | ![]() Why Union Careers Win: Pension, 401(k), and Healthcare Benefits Explained w/ Tom Bigley | 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. | — | ||||||
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