Lifting Up the Trades: The Story of the Northwest Michigan Skilled Trades Foundation

In this episode of the Building Better Podcast, host Lauren Tucker is joined by Lauren Flynn and Heidi Flake to shine a spotlight on an important but often overlooked part of the HBA: the Northwest Michigan Skilled Trades Foundation.

They dive deep into the foundation’s mission to support skilled trades careers across northern Michigan through scholarships, workforce development programs, and community outreach. You’ll hear about the foundation’s evolution, the importance of breaking down barriers to career entry, and why changing the public perception of trades is critical to solving the ongoing labor shortage.

From raising scholarship funds to inspiring the next generation at events like Building Tomorrow, this conversation is all about impact, opportunity, and building a stronger future—one skilled trade at a time.

🎧 Listen now to hear how the foundation is changing lives, reshaping communities, and creating pathways to success.