Careers in manufacturing and skilled trades jobs are booming. Roger Atkins (NTMA) joins Andrew Brown to discuss manufacturing apprenticeship programs, reshoring manufacturing USA, and high paying trade careers.

Host Andrew Brown sits down with Roger Atkins, President of the National Tooling & Machining Association (NTMA), to explore how today’s skilled trades jobs are shaping the future of the trades industry. From the growth of manufacturing apprenticeship programs to the nationwide push for reshoring manufacturing USA, they cover how to build high paying trade careers that rival college pathways.

Whether you’re just starting out, considering a career change, or advising young people, this episode provides real insights into the future of the skilled trades.

● (00:00) – Careers in Manufacturing Today: Why trades careers matter more than ever.

● (04:32) – Skilled Trades Jobs vs. Service Jobs: The hidden financial difference.

● (12:15) – Manufacturing Apprenticeship Programs: Earn while you learn pathways into trades.

● (22:40) – Reshoring Manufacturing USA: Why supply chains are shifting back home.

● (33:10) – High Paying Trade Careers: From $18/hr apprenticeships to six-figure tradespeople.

● (44:55) – The Future of the Trades Industry: AI, technology, and advocacy reshaping the landscape.

● Careers in manufacturing offer advancement and stability far beyond entry-level jobs.

● Skilled trades jobs like carpentry, HVAC, electricians, plumbers, and millwrights provide lifelong pathways.

● Manufacturing apprenticeship programs allow people to train debt-free while earning a wage.

● Reshoring manufacturing USA is driving demand for high paying trade careers across small and medium businesses.

Roger Atkins is the President of the National Tooling & Machining Association (NTMA). With decades in the trades industry, Roger has been a leading advocate for reshoring initiatives, building manufacturing apprenticeship programs, and expanding awareness of skilled trades jobs. His work with the Skilled Trades Advisory Council and industry experts focuses on creating high paying trade careers for future generations of tradespeople, contractors, and career changers.

Careers in Manufacturing, Skilled Trades Jobs, Manufacturing Apprenticeship Programs, Reshoring Manufacturing USA, High Paying Trade Careers, Skilled Trades, Trades Industry, Carpentry, HVAC, Electricians, Plumbers, Millwrights, Construction, Contractors, Industry Experts, Andrew Brown, Roger Atkins, National Tooling & Machining Association, NTMA, Toolfetch, Skilled Trades Advisory Council, Tradespeople, Craftsmanship, Problem-solving, Creativity, Advocacy, Education, Trades Careers

LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roger-atkins/

Website: https://ntma.org/

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From nursing to female mechanic, flipping cars for profit, and building Crown's Corner Mechanic.

Host Andrew Brown talks with Desiree Hill, known as She Mechanic, about her bold career change to trades—from healthcare to launching Crown’s Corner Mechanic. They explore how women are breaking into skilled trades careers, what it takes to succeed as a female mechanic, and the role of flipping cars for profit in building confidence and skills.

This inspiring conversation highlights the future of the trades industry, the importance of mentorship, and how social media is helping more people find their path in plumbing apprenticeships, carpentry, HVAC, electricians, plumbers, and construction craftsmanship.

IN THIS EPISODE:

● (00:00) – Introduction: Andrew Brown on skilled trades careers & industry advocacy

● (03:12) – Desiree’s path: Career change to trades from nursing into mechanics

● (08:25) – Flipping cars for profit: Building confidence & skills with hands-on learning

● (15:40) – Launching Crown’s Corner Mechanic: From driveway projects to a full shop

● (24:18) – Women in the trades industry: Female mechanic success stories & plumbing apprenticeships

● (36:55) – Lessons in entrepreneurship: Problem-solving, creativity & leadership in skilled trades careers

Key Takeaways:

● A career change to trades is possible at any age—Desiree Hill proves it with her journey from nursing to becoming a successful female mechanic.

● Flipping cars for profit can be a gateway to learning, entrepreneurship, and a long-term role in the skilled trades industry.

● Social media is breaking barriers by showcasing women in plumbing apprenticeships, carpentry, HVAC, electricians, and construction trades careers.

● Building a personal brand like She Mechanic inspires the next generation of skilled tradespeople and advocates for industry-wide change.

About the Guest:

Desiree Hill, also known as She Mechanic, is the founder of Crown’s Corner Mechanic. A former healthcare worker turned female mechanic, she built her career by flipping cars for profit and teaching herself mechanical skills. Now a respected advocate in the trades industry, she uses her platform to inspire women and the next generation of skilled trades careers through mentorship, education, and real-world problem-solving.

Keywords:

Skilled Trades Careers, Career Change to Trades, Female Mechanic, Flipping Cars for Profit, Plumbing Apprenticeship, Skilled Trades, Trades Industry, Trades Careers, Tradespeople, Advocacy, Education, Industry Experts, Contractors, Andrew Brown, Desiree Hill, She Mechanic, Crown's Corner Mechanic, Toolfetch, Skilled Trades Advisory Council, Carpentry, HVAC, Electricians, Plumbers, Millwrights, Construction, Craftsmanship, Problem-Solving, Creativity

Resource Links:

• TikTok: @SheMechanic
• Instagram: CrownsCorner_SheMechanic
• Website: Crown's Corner Mechanics

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Want a high-paying plumbing trade career? Daniel Quinonez joins Andrew Brown to share plumbing apprenticeship programs, PHCC Educational Foundation training, and plumbing job opportunities.

Host Andrew Brown talks with Daniel Quinonez, COO of the Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors Association and leader within the PHCC Educational Foundation, about building successful plumbing trade careers. They break down plumbing apprenticeship programs, the demand for high-paying skilled trades, and how to access the best plumbing job opportunities.

From career changers to young apprentices, Daniel shares insider tips on navigating the trades industry, breaking misconceptions about plumbers, and finding your place among tradespeople in plumbing, HVAC, carpentry, and beyond.

(00:00) – Introduction: Why the trades industry needs more plumbers and how plumbing trade careers are thriving.

(05:22) – Plumbing apprenticeship programs explained: pay, timelines, and earning while learning.

(12:47) – The PHCC Educational Foundation: training, scholarships, and advocacy for skilled trades.

(21:33) – The truth about high-paying skilled trades and entrepreneurship in plumbing, HVAC, and carpentry.

(33:15) – Career changers in the trades industry: from corporate jobs to plumbing job opportunities.

(45:50) – Why craftsmanship, problem-solving, and creativity define great trades careers.

● Plumbing trade careers can lead to six-figure incomes without college debt.

● Plumbing apprenticeship programs offer hands-on training, certification, and industry connections.

● The PHCC Educational Foundation empowers tradespeople with resources and scholarships.

● High-paying skilled trades like plumbing, HVAC, and electrical offer stability, growth, and recession-proof work.

Daniel Quinonez is the Chief Operating Officer of the Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors Association and a driving force behind the PHCC Educational Foundation. A veteran advocate for skilled trades education, Daniel works with contractors, industry experts, and the Skilled Trades Advisory Council to expand plumbing apprenticeship programs and create more plumbing job opportunities nationwide. His work spans multiple trades—including plumbing, HVAC, carpentry, and construction—while championing craftsmanship, problem-solving, and the future of the trades industry.

Plumbing Trade Careers, Plumbing Apprenticeship Programs, PHCC Educational Foundation, High-Paying Skilled Trades, Plumbing Job Opportunities, Skilled Trades, Trades Industry, Andrew Brown, Daniel Quinonez, Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors Association, Skilled Trades Advisory Council, Toolfetch, Carpentry, HVAC, Electricians, Plumbers, Millwrights, Construction, Tradespeople, Contractors, Industry Experts, Advocacy, Education, Craftsmanship, Problem-Solving, Creativity, Trades Careers

LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-quinonez-690ba68/

Website: https://www.phccweb.org/

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Women in STEM are rising. Meet Destiny Simone Adams, a TikTok STEM creator breaking barriers in robotics competitions and Skilled Trades education.

Host Andrew Brown talks with Destiny Simone Adams, a STEM content creator and advocate for Black Girls Who Code, about competing in all-male robotics competitions, building her personal brand on TikTok, and creating inclusive paths in the Skilled Trades for the next generation. From her early start at age 7 to teaching over 1,000 girls to code, Destiny shares how STEM education for girls can unlock careers in construction, HVAC, carpentry, and beyond. This episode brings raw inspiration, real advice, and powerful insights into crafting your own career path, whether you're 17 or 37.

● (00:02:00) – Breaking into robotics competitions as the only girl competitor

● (00:08:30) – How Black Girls Who Code shaped Destiny’s path in women in STEM

● (00:14:15) – Starting the first all-girls robotics team in South Fulton

● (00:22:00) – Fusing tech + art through wearable electronics and problem-solving

● (00:31:45) – Building a personal brand for STEM education for girls on TikTok

● (00:44:00) – Advice for young tradespeople entering the Trades Industry

● Women in STEM need visibility—and Destiny became that example in national robotics competitions.

● STEM education for girls is essential to diversify and grow the future Skilled Trades workforce.

● Personal branding and authenticity on TikTok can drive awareness and opportunity in the Trades Industry.

● Teaching trades-related STEM topics (like mechatronics, electronics, and wearable tech) can bridge gaps in education, craftsmanship, and representation.

Destiny Simone Adams (aka @IOTLab616) is a TikTok STEM creator, engineer, artist, and educator. A longtime advocate for STEM education for girls, Destiny is affiliated with organizations like Black Girls Who Code, Women in Technology, and the Skilled Trades Advisory Council. She’s taught over 1,000 girls to code, built viral robotic projects, and uses social media to highlight opportunities in the Skilled Trades, including paths in construction, plumbing, electricians, and carpentry. Destiny is passionate about mentorship, community leadership, and reshaping what the next generation of tradespeople can look like.

Women in STEM, Robotics Competition, STEM Education for Girls, Black Girls Who Code, Skilled Trades Podcast, Skilled Trades, Trades Industry, Andrew Brown, Destiny Adams, Destiny Simone Adams, Toolfetch, Carpentry, HVAC, Electricians, Plumbers, Millwrights, Construction, Tradespeople, Craftsmanship, Advocacy, Contractors, Industry Experts, Skilled Trades Advisory Council, Education, Problem-solving, Creativity

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@iotlab616

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/destinyadamsinternational/?hl=en

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Skilled trades shortage is a growing crisis. Mark Hedstrom joins Andrew Brown to discuss workforce gaps, SkillsUSA, and trade school vs college realities.

The skilled trades shortage is no longer coming. It’s here. In this episode, Host Andrew Brown speaks with Mark Hedstrom, Executive Director of the Skilled Careers Coalition, live from the floor of the SkillsUSA competition in Atlanta. Together, they break down what students, parents, employers, and educators need to know to build a stronger trades workforce.

From trade school vs college decisions to why soft skills training is critical for long-term success, Mark shares urgent insights on how to solve the talent pipeline problem in skilled trades careers like HVAC, plumbing, carpentry, electrical, and millwrighting. This is essential listening for anyone invested in the future of the trades industry.

Whether you're a student, contractor, educator, or policymaker, this episode is packed with insight from two leading voices in the trades industry.

● (00:51) – SkillsUSA Competition: 6,000 students preparing for skilled trades careers

● (05:42) – Why the skilled trades shortage is bigger than most people think

● (12:35) – Trade School vs College: Which has better ROI in today’s economy?

● (21:08) – Soft skills training: The hidden key to success in the trades

● (30:14) – Social media’s power in trades recruitment and storytelling

● (43:49) – Mentorship, placement, and what employers must do differently

● The skilled trades shortage is projected to leave hundreds of thousands of roles unfilled in plumbing, construction, and manufacturing.

● Students need help navigating trade school vs college pathways—with clearer ROI comparisons and better exposure to career outcomes.

● Soft skills training is often the differentiator between a good hire and a great future leader in the trades.

● Employers should recruit directly from events like the SkillsUSA competition to meet top-tier young talent ready for careers in the trades industry.

Mark Hedstrom is the Executive Director of the Steel Careers Coalition, an initiative committed to solving the skilled trades shortage through national partnerships, career exploration tools, and storytelling platforms like Skills Jam. With a background in nonprofit leadership and public health, Mark is an advocate for skilled trades careers, intergenerational mentorship, and better workforce development across education, construction, and manufacturing sectors.

Skilled Trades Careers, SkillsUSA Competition, Soft Skills Training, Trade School vs College, Skilled Trades Shortage, Andrew Brown, Mark Hedstrom, Steel Careers Coalition, Skilled Trades Advisory Council, Electricians, Plumbers, Millwrights, Carpentry, HVAC, Construction, Contractors, Tradespeople, Skilled Trades, Trades Industry, Toolfetch, Craftsmanship, Creativity, Problem-solving, Education, Advocacy, Industry Experts, Mentorship, Social Media in Trades

Linkedin profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markhedstrom/

Website: https://skilledcareers.org/

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Discover how to become an RV tech and why this skilled trade is booming in 2025 and beyond.Andrew Brown sits down with Curtis Hemmeler from the RV Technical Institute to explore the RV technician career path, certification options, wages, and why this trade offers long-term opportunity for career changers, high schoolers, and women entering the trades.

With over 8 million RVs on the road and fewer than 1,000 certified dealerships, there’s an urgent need for skilled workers. Curtis explains the RV technician career path, how it compares to traditional trades like HVAC, plumbing, and electricians, and why it’s a high-paying, sustainable option for anyone exploring trades careers—from high schoolers to career changers. Whether you’re passionate about craftsmanship, problem-solving, or exploring new industries, this is a must-listen.

IN THIS EPISODE:

(00:00) – Introduction to the RV industry & the tech shortage

(04:00) – The RV technician career path: Level 1 to Master Tech

(11:30) – Women in skilled trades & RVWA

(20:45) – How much do RV techs make? Salary breakdowns

(33:00) – Mobile tech vs. dealership work

(42:00) – Changing the narrative: PR problems in the skilled trades

The RV technician career path offers multiple levels of certification, starting with just 40 hours of training and potential earnings of $45K to $100K+ per year.

There are fewer than 1,000 certified dealerships to service over 8 million RVs creating massive demand for certified technicians.

Women, career changers, and even those with zero experience can find fulfilling careers through RV Technical Institute training.

The trades industry whether carpentry, millwrights, construction, or RV techs—is rooted in problem-solving, creativity, and long-term sustainability, with increasing emphasis on advocacy and public awareness.

About the Guest:

Curtis Hemmeler is the Executive Director of the RV Technical Institute, a $10M nonprofit school created by the RV industry to solve the shortage of certified technicians. With over 22,000 people having completed or started training under his leadership, Curtis is leading the charge in modernizing technical training, advocating for tradespeople, and promoting trades careers as a respectable, high-income, and sustainable path. He’s a veteran, educator, and passionate voice in the skilled trades movement.

Keywords:

RV technician career path, RV Technical Institute training, How to become an RV tech, RV technician salary 2025, Women in skilled trades, Skilled Trades, Trades Industry, Andrew Brown, Curtis Hemmeler, Toolfetch, Carpentry, HVAC, Electricians, Plumbers, Millwrights, Construction, Craftsmanship, Problem-solving, Creativity, Tradespeople, Advocacy, Trades Careers, Industry Experts, Contractors, Education, Skilled Trades Advisory Council

Resource Links:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/curt-hemmeler/
• Website: https://www.rvti.org/

From sweeping floors to leading crews on the Freedom Tower, Josh Nieves shares his powerful journey through the IBEW apprenticeship program and into the heart of the skilled trades. This episode dives into union vs non-union paths, electrician salary progression, and how mentorship can change everything

Andrew Brown sits down with Josh Nieves, IBEW electrician and Workforce Development Manager at Miller Electric, to unpack the real story behind building a fulfilling skilled trades career. From navigating union apprenticeship programs to the difference between an installer vs. electrician, Josh offers insight for both aspiring tradespeople and industry veterans. Whether you’re trying to get into the IBEW, debating union vs non-union pathways, or exploring your long-term earning potential as an electrician, this conversation delivers real, no-fluff advice from someone who’s walked the path—and is now paying it forward.

(00:01:00) - The national shortage of 80,000 electricians annually

(00:05:00) - How to get into the IBEW apprenticeship program

(00:10:30) - Electrician salary progression and earning six figures

(00:20:00) - Josh’s 9/11 story and how it shaped his trades career

(00:31:00) - The leap from journeyman to master electrician

(00:47:00) - Why mentorship, culture, and advocacy are vital in the trades industry.

There are multiple ways to enter the trades industry, including through open shop work and IBEW union programs don’t give up if you’re denied the first time.

Electrician salary progression is real starting at ~$20/hour, but growing rapidly into six figures with overtime, experience, and credentials.

The skilled trades industry needs better mentorship, not just training, to help new tradespeople succeed long-term.

Culture and leadership matter Josh shares how great companies create supportive environments that retain top talent.

About the Guest:

Josh Nieves is a master electrician, entrepreneur, and the Workforce Development Manager at Miller Electric. With nearly two decades in the trades industry, Josh has worked on landmark projects including the Freedom Tower, Brooklyn Bridge, and Empire State Building. A proud member of IBEW Local 3, Josh is now on a mission to grow the next generation of electricians through education, mentorship, and public trades advocacy.

Keywords:

IBEW apprenticeship program, how to become an electrician, electrician union vs non-union, skilled trades career path, electrician salary progression, Skilled Trades, Trades Industry, Andrew Brown, Josh Nieves, Toolfetch, Carpentry, HVAC, Electricians, Plumbers, Millwrights, Construction, Craftsmanship, Problem-solving, Creativity, Tradespeople, Advocacy, Trades Careers, Industry Experts, Contractors, Education, Skilled Trades Advisory Council

Website: https://www.mecojax.com/

LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshnieves/

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Skilled trades summer camps are transforming lives. Angie Simon joins Andrew Brown to talk trades careers, apprenticeships, and women in construction programs.

Host Andrew Brown speaks with Angie Simon, founder of the Heavy Metal Summer Experience, about how skilled trades summer camps are creating real careers in the trades for youth. From women in construction programs to sheet metal apprenticeship opportunities, this episode explores how hands-on camps are reshaping the future of the trades industry by giving teens, especially those from underserved communities, an exciting trade school alternative to college.

You’ll hear success stories, insider insights, and the practical tools these camps offer: free boots, tools, real trade skills (welding, plumbing, electrical), and mentorship from industry professionals.

Whether you're a parent, a contractor, or someone passionate about trades careers, this episode gives you a clear look at what’s working—and how you can be part of the change.

● (02:10) – How 65% of sheet metal contractors started in the trades

● (08:35) – What skilled trades summer camps look like day-to-day

● (14:20) – The growing impact of women in construction programs

● (20:05) – Trade school alternatives to college and why they matter

● (27:50) – Why sheet metal apprenticeship opportunities are booming

● (34:30) – How camps are changing the future of the skilled trades industry

● Skilled trades summer camps are opening doors to high-paying, hands-on careers for teens.

● More women in construction programs are succeeding—especially in welding and fabrication.

● These camps are effective trade school alternatives to college for at-risk youth.

● Sheet metal apprenticeship opportunities are in demand and can lead to business ownership.

Angie Simon is a pioneering figure in the trades industry and co-founder of the Heavy Metal Summer Experience. With over 35 years in construction, including 15 years as president of a major mechanical contracting firm, she launched this nonprofit to grow the next generation of tradespeople. Her summer camps introduce youth to carpentry, HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and sheet metal trades, while also leading initiatives for women in construction programs and creating trade school alternatives to college for underserved communities.

Skilled Trades Summer Camps, Careers in the Trades for Youth, Women in Construction Programs, Sheet Metal Apprenticeship Opportunities, Trade School Alternatives to College, Skilled Trades, Trades Industry, Trades Careers, Contractors, Industry Experts, Education, Advocacy, Tradespeople, Problem-solving, Creativity, Andrew Brown, Angie Simon, Heavy Metal Summer Experience, Toolfetch, Skilled Trades Advisory Council, Carpentry, HVAC, Electricians, Plumbers, Millwrights, Construction, Craftsmanship

Website: https://www.hmse.org/

LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/angie-simon-pe-666744/

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