Skilled Nation

Star Worldwide Networks

Skilled Nation takes you inside the world of high-demand trades—welding, electrical, HVAC, industrial maintenance, and more. Through real stories from graduates and pros, you’ll see how hands-on training can launch you into a high-paying, future-proof career—without the four-year degree and crushing debt. Way of Life, Badge of Honor—this is the real story of building a career, a craft, and a future you’re proud of.

  1. 3d ago

    Sam Mayer: You Don’t Have to Drive to Work in NASCAR

    Guest: Sam Mayer Haas Factory Team, Car 41, O'Reilly Cup Series Want to work in NASCAR? Driving is only one way in. NASCAR driver Sam Mayer reveals how welding, fabrication, electrical skills, and cooling systems help race teams compete, and why the people behind the car deserve more attention. In this episode of Skilled Nation, Sam joins host Jimmy Rhoades to connect the excitement of professional racing with the skilled trades that make it possible. From precision welds to driver safety, every specialist has a role in getting the car to the starting line and keeping it competitive. Sam shares his journey from racing go-karts at four to winning in the NASCAR Truck Series at 17. He also recounts a brutal Nashville race when his cooling suit failed, explains the trust behind a 14-second pit stop, and discusses why careers building and maintaining race cars offer opportunities beyond the driver’s seat. In this conversation: • Welding and fabrication jobs in NASCAR • Electrical wiring, batteries, and race-car systems • Driver cooling, heat, and race performance • Crew chiefs, car chiefs, and pit crew teamwork • Women working on NASCAR teams • Transferring skilled trades experience into motorsports Whether you’re a NASCAR fan, a trades student, or exploring a different career direction, discover how hands-on skills can connect you to professional racing. Subscribe to Skilled Nation for more conversations about skilled trades, career opportunities, and the people who keep our world running. Sponsored by Tulsa Welding School. Skilled Nation: A Way of Life. A Badge of Honor. #NASCAR #SamMayer #SkilledTrades #SkilledNation #NASCARCareers #Welding #Fabrication #HVAC #MotorsportsCareers

  2. Oct 3

    John Deere Right to Repair: Can Skilled Technicians Finally Compete?

    Do farmers truly own their John Deere equipment if independent technicians cannot access the software required to repair it? Willie Cade, director of the Theo Brown Society and a board member of Repair.org, joins Skilled Nation to explain the fight over John Deere right to repair. He breaks down the proposed $99 million settlement, the FTC’s role, state right-to-repair legislation, equipment ownership, diagnostic software, repair data, and the tools skilled technicians need to compete with authorized dealerships. Willie also discusses how modern tractors have evolved into rolling computers, why experienced diesel mechanics can still be locked out of repairs, and how greater access could create new career and business opportunities for heavy-equipment technicians. From mobile farm repair businesses to equipment that can cost more than $1 million, this conversation explores what right to repair means for farmers, independent repair shops, and the future of the skilled trades. Skilled Nation celebrates the people whose knowledge and hands-on ability keep America running. It’s a way of life and a badge of honor. #RightToRepair #JohnDeere #SkilledTrades #DieselMechanic #HeavyEquipment #FarmEquipment #IndependentRepair #AgriculturalTechnology #RepairTechnician #SkilledNation

  3. Sep 19

    One Small Jobsite Mistake Can Cost Thousands | The Rework Tax

    A small mistake on a construction site can become a major expense once the walls close and the next trade moves in. So how can apprentices, journeymen and experienced crews catch problems before they trigger costly rework? Quality assurance inspector and electrical industry professional Will Lane joins Skilled Nation to break down the hidden “rework tax” created by missed details, misunderstood electrical codes, schedule pressure and poor communication. He shares a mistake from his first job as an apprentice, explains why speaking up can protect an entire project and reveals what newer tradespeople can do to earn trust on the job. The conversation also explores Code Buddy, a field tool designed to help construction professionals navigate electrical codes, project specifications and potential quality issues while the work is still accessible. If you are entering the skilled trades, leading a construction crew or working in electrical quality assurance and quality control, this episode shows why asking the right question at the right time can save thousands of dollars. Skilled Nation: A Way of Life. A Badge of Honor. #SkilledTrades #ConstructionCareers #ElectricalApprentice #ConstructionQuality #SkilledNation

  4. Sep 4

    Built by Hand: A Skilled Nation Labor Day Special

    This Labor Day, Skilled Nation celebrates the people whose skill, determination and craftsmanship keep America moving. Through stories from welders, electricians, HVAC professionals, builders, fabricators and more, this special episode explores the work happening behind the scenes, the dedication it takes to master a trade, and the pride that comes from building, fixing and creating something that matters. #SkilledNation #LaborDay #SkilledTrades #BlueCollar #SkilledWorkers #TradesCareers #WorkforceDevelopment #Welding #Electricians #HVAC #Construction #MadeInAmerica #CareerTraining #FutureOfWork #essentialworkers

  5. Aug 27

    Skip the College-Only Mindset: How to Start a Career in the Skilled Trades

    College isn't the only path to a successful career, but for students interested in construction and the skilled trades, figuring out where to start can be the hardest part. In this episode of Skilled Nation, host Jimmy Rhoades talks with Corey Foster, Director of Workforce Development for the Arizona Chapter of the Associated General Contractors of America, about what it really takes to turn an interest in construction into a career. From CTE programs and apprenticeships to transportation, workplace expectations and the skills that can increase earning potential, Cory lays out a practical roadmap for young people considering the trades. They also tackle the questions parents often have about safety, long-term opportunity and career growth, and explain why an apprenticeship can be much more than a first job. Because getting into the industry is only the beginning. The bigger question is: Where could you be 10 years from now? #SkilledTrades #Apprenticeship #ConstructionCareers #CareerAdvice #WorkforceDevelopment #SkilledNation

  6. Aug 22

    Are We Pushing College Too Soon? The Skilled Careers Kids Never See

    What if we’re asking young people to choose a future before they’ve had the chance to see what’s possible? In this episode of Skilled Nation, host Jimmy Rhoades sits down with Dr. Chad Wilson, Superintendent of the East Valley Institute of Technology (EVIT), to explore why career exposure needs to start earlier and why college shouldn’t be the only pathway students are encouraged to consider. From career and technical education (CTE) and hands-on learning to industry certifications and real-world experience, Dr. Wilson explains how exposure to different careers can help students discover strengths, interests, and opportunities they may never encounter in a traditional classroom. The conversation explores what it really means to be career-ready, how modern CTE has evolved far beyond the vocational programs many adults remember, and why parents, educators, and industry professionals all have a role to play in expanding what young people believe is possible. They also look at where skilled work is headed as AI, automation, technology, and workforce shortages reshape the labor market, and why careers in welding, HVAC, electrical, plumbing, construction, automotive, advanced manufacturing, and other skilled trades may offer opportunities many students and families haven't considered. Along the way, Dr. Wilson shares stories that challenge assumptions about how students learn, what career success can look like, and where technical skills can ultimately take someone. Because before a student can choose the right path, they first have to know that path exists. #SkilledTrades #CareerTechnicalEducation #CTE #CareerReadiness #TradeCareers #WorkforceDevelopment #SkilledNation #EVIT

  7. Aug 8

    AI and the Future of Skilled Trades: Why Technology Won’t Replace Technicians

    AI is changing the skilled trades, but what does that mean for the people doing the work? As homes get smarter, tools become more connected and artificial intelligence makes its way into the field, the job of an HVAC technician is beginning to evolve. But the biggest changes may not be the ones people expect. In this episode of Skilled Nation, host Jimmy Rhoades sits down with Jamie Quanrud of Resideo to look beyond the headlines and explore what the future of skilled work could really look like. What skills will matter most? How will AI change the way technicians diagnose problems and serve customers? What happens to decades of hands-on experience when technology can analyze massive amounts of information in seconds? And are young people entering the trades uniquely prepared for what’s coming next? Jamie also shares what she’s seeing through Resideo Academy and her work with contractors, educators and the next generation of HVAC professionals. If you work in the skilled trades, are considering an HVAC career or are wondering what AI means for hands-on jobs, this is a conversation you’ll want to hear. Because the future of the trades is already taking shape. Skilled Nation is sponsored by Tulsa Welding School. It’s a way of life. A badge of honor. #SkilledTrades #HVAC #ArtificialIntelligence #FutureOfWork #SkilledNation #HVACTechnician #TradeCareers #AI #SmartHome #WorkforceDevelopment

  8. Jul 30

    She Was Told to College was the Only Way. She Chose Welding Instead. | WeldHer Workshops

    What if the career that changes your life is the one nobody ever told you about? For Letty Bejarano and Rachel Miller, welding wasn't part of the plan. One followed the traditional path through college before realizing success on paper didn't feel like fulfillment. The other stumbled into a welding shop and instantly knew she had found where she belonged. Together, they turned those unexpected journeys into WeldHer Workshops, a movement that's introducing more women to careers they never imagined possible. In this episode of Skilled Nation, they share the stories behind the sparks. From career pivots and self-doubt to building confidence with a welding hood for the first time, this conversation explores what it really takes to break into one of America's most in-demand industries. Along the way, they open up about mentorship, workplace culture, mental health in the trades, and why the biggest barrier isn't ability. It's awareness. Whether you're a student wondering what comes after high school, a parent helping your child explore career options, or someone looking for a fresh start without taking on years of student debt, this episode may change the way you think about skilled trades. In this episode:Why welding became a life-changing career for two women who never planned on itWhat more people need to know about apprenticeships and skilled tradesThe biggest myths keeping women out of welding and constructionHow WeldHer Workshops is opening doors for the next generationThe truth about workplace culture, confidence, and belongingWhy AI isn't replacing skilled trades anytime soonHow mentorship and community can transform careers If you've ever wondered whether college is the only path to success, or if there's a career out there you've never considered, this conversation is for you. Subscribe to Skilled Nation for conversations with the people building America's future through welding, electrical, HVAC, construction, manufacturing, and the skilled trades. #SkilledNation #WomenInWelding #Welding #SkilledTrades #WomenInTrades #Apprenticeship #CareerChange #TradeSchool #Construction #Manufacturing #BlueCollar #WorkforceDevelopment #FutureOfWork #CareerGrowth #UnionApprenticeship #WeldHer #JimmyRhoades

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About

Skilled Nation takes you inside the world of high-demand trades—welding, electrical, HVAC, industrial maintenance, and more. Through real stories from graduates and pros, you’ll see how hands-on training can launch you into a high-paying, future-proof career—without the four-year degree and crushing debt. Way of Life, Badge of Honor—this is the real story of building a career, a craft, and a future you’re proud of.

Information

  • Creator
    Star Worldwide Networks
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    41
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Skilled Nation
  • Show Website
    Skilled Nation