Skilled Nation

Star Worldwide Networks
  • 5.0 (5)
  • Education
  • Updated Weekly

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. 4d ago

    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

  2. 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

  3. 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

  4. 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

  5. Jul 23

    Women Are Changing the Skilled Trades Industry | Concetta Defa

    Women are helping reshape the future of the skilled trades, but barriers still exist. In this episode of Skilled Nation, host Jimmy Rhoades sits down with Concetta Defa, electrician, workforce advocate, and host of Hire PowHER, to discuss why the skilled trades industry needs more women, what's changing on today's job sites, and what challenges still need to be solved.From apprenticeship opportunities and workforce shortages to childcare, mentorship, workplace culture, and career growth, this conversation explores how expanding access to skilled trades careers benefits workers, employers, and the entire economy. Concetta also shares inspiring stories of women whose lives were transformed through careers in the electrical and energy industries, proving that skilled trades offer far more than a paycheck. They create long-term career opportunities, financial stability, confidence, and generational impact. In this episode: • Why visibility and mentorship matter for women entering the trades • The biggest misconceptions about women in construction and energy careers • Why employers want to hire more women and what's still holding them back • PPE, workplace culture, and creating more inclusive job sites • Why childcare may be the biggest workforce issue facing the construction industry • How skilled trades careers change lives for single mothers and families • What women uniquely contribute to construction and skilled trades • The future of energy careers and why demand continues to grow • Practical advice for anyone considering an apprenticeship or career in the skilled trades Whether you're exploring a career in construction, electrical work, HVAC, welding, utilities, renewable energy, or infrastructure, this episode offers an honest look at the opportunities available and the work still ahead. #WomenInTrades #SkilledTrades #ConstructionCareers#EnergyJobs #Apprenticeship #WomenInConstruction#Electrician #WorkforceDevelopment

  6. Jul 16

    From C Student to CEO: The Skilled Trades Success Story Every Parent Needs to Hear

    Can an apprenticeship change your life? Mike Greenawalt says yes, because it changed his. Before becoming CEO of one of the nation's largest electrical contractors, Mike was a self described C student who struggled in a traditional classroom but thrived with his hands. One mentor, one opportunity, and one electrical apprenticeship completely changed his future. Today, through the Greenawalt Foundation, he's helping the next generation discover the same path. In this episode of Skilled Nation, we explore why registered apprenticeships are becoming one of the most valuable career pathways in America, what the new Workforce Pell Grant means for students pursuing skilled trades, why employers desperately need more apprentices, and how mentorship can transform lives. Mike also shares practical advice for parents, guidance counselors, employers, and anyone considering a career in construction, electrical work, welding, HVAC, manufacturing, or other skilled trades. If you've ever wondered whether college is the only path to success, this conversation may change your perspective. In this episode:How an electrical apprenticeship led from apprentice to CEOThe biggest myths about careers in the skilled tradesWhat the new Workforce Pell Grant means for career trainingWhy America needs more apprentices than everThe role mentors play in building successful careersHow the Greenawalt Foundation is helping future trades professionalsWhy parents should rethink the "college only" mindsetHow to find registered apprenticeship programs near you Whether you're a student, parent, educator, employer, or career changer, this episode offers real insight into one of the fastest growing career opportunities in America. Subscribe to Skilled Nation for more conversations with the leaders shaping the future of skilled trades, apprenticeships, workforce development, and career education. For more information on the Greenawalt Foundation head to https://greenawaltfoundation.org/ #SkilledTrades #Apprenticeship #Electrician #TradeSchool #WorkforceDevelopment #CareerSuccess #BlueCollar #ConstructionCareers #WorkforcePellGrant #CareerAdvice #SkilledNation #TradesJobs #Mentorship #FutureOfWork #ElectricalApprenticeship

  7. Jul 9

    The Future of Welding: How One Career Can Lead to Endless Opportunities

    What if one high school welding class could change the course of your life? In this episode of Skilled Nation, Jimmy Rhoades sits down with Stephanie Hoffman, Director of Industry Development & Engagement at Miller Electric, to explore how a single opportunity turned into a career spanning welding, military service, education, entrepreneurship, and national workforce leadership. Stephanie shares her journey from a self-described "lost punk rock kid" to one of the industry's most influential advocates. Along the way, they discuss why welding is no longer a single career path, how AI and automation are transforming skilled trades instead of replacing them, why America's manufacturing resurgence depends on the next generation of skilled workers, and what students, parents, educators, and employers need to understand about today's opportunities. Whether you're considering welding, exploring skilled trades, or wondering where manufacturing is headed, this conversation offers practical insight and an inspiring reminder that the best careers are often discovered, not planned. Topics Covered: Welding careers and apprenticeships Skilled trades career pathways Women in welding Workforce shortages and manufacturing AI, automation, and robotics in welding Career and technical education (CTE) Skilled trades education Miller Electric workforce development Infrastructure and data center jobs Why skilled trades are shaping America's future #SkilledTrades #Welding #Manufacturing #Careers #Apprenticeship #SkilledNation #MillerElectric #WorkforceDevelopment #CTE #Trades

  8. Jul 2

    Extreme Heat Safety for Construction Workers, Welders, HVAC Techs & Electricians

    Every summer, millions of skilled trades professionals work in dangerous heat across Arizona, Texas, Florida, and the southern United States. But what keeps construction workers, welders, electricians, HVAC technicians, and laborers safe when temperatures climb above 110°F? In this episode of Skilled Nation, Jimmy Rhoades sits down with Mike Marden, owner of WDS Integrated Design Build, to discuss the realities of working in extreme heat after more than three decades in the construction industry. They explore: • How extreme heat impacts construction workers and job sites • Heat exhaustion, hydration, and recognizing warning signs • Why safety culture in the trades has changed • The role of PPE, cooling apparel, and modern heat protection • How leadership creates safer job sites • Why prefabrication and new technology are reducing heat exposure • What every new tradesperson should know before working outdoors Whether you're considering a career in construction, welding, electrical, HVAC, or another skilled trade, this episode offers practical advice that could help you stay safe and build a long, successful career. Skilled Nation is sponsored by Tulsa Welding School and celebrates the people, careers, and opportunities shaping America's skilled workforce. Subscribe for more conversations with industry leaders, skilled trades professionals, and workforce experts. To learn more about WDS Integrated Design Build head to https://wds.build/architect-contractor or @wdsdesignbuild #ConstructionSafety #SkilledTrades #HeatSafety #ConstructionWorkers #Welding #HVAC #Electrician #JobsiteSafety #BlueCollar #ConstructionLife #WorkforceDevelopment #TradesCareers #SummerSafety #HeatExhaustion #SkilledNation #Tulsaweldingschool

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5
out of 5
5 Ratings

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
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    37
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Skilled Nation
  • Show Website
    Skilled Nation

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