The Lost Art Of the Skilled Trades
Welcome to The Lost Art of the Skilled Trades, the ultimate podcast dedicated to celebrating and exploring the world of skilled trades. Hosted by Andrew Brown, a passionate advocate for the trades industry and co-founder of Toolfetch, this podcast is your go-to source for knowledge, inspiration, and practical advice. Andrew brings a unique perspective shaped by years of hands-on experience, entrepreneurial success, and a deep commitment to elevating the trades. Dive into the fascinating and ever-evolving world of skilled trades, where creativity, problem-solving, and dedication come together to build the world around us. From carpentry and HVAC systems to electricians, plumbers, millwrights, and beyond, every episode uncovers the grit, determination, and artistry that define the people behind these essential professions. Andrew’s journey began with a life-changing moment on September 11, 2001, when he worked alongside tradespeople, first responders, and community helpers at Ground Zero. This experience inspired him to dedicate his life to advocating for the unsung heroes of the trades. Through his company Toolfetch, Andrew has helped provide tools, equipment, and resources to industry professionals worldwide. Now, through this podcast, he continues his mission to spotlight the craftsmanship, hard work, and dedication of tradespeople everywhere. Each episode features in-depth interviews with industry experts, seasoned professionals, and rising stars in the trades. From contractors and electricians to HVAC specialists, plumbers, carpenters, and more, listeners will gain insider knowledge about the skills, tools, and strategies needed to thrive in these essential fields. Andrew also speaks with educators, advocates, and business leaders who are working to inspire the next generation of tradespeople, offering a fresh perspective on the value and opportunities within the trades. At its core, The Lost Art of the Skilled Trades is more than just a podcast — it’s a celebration of a culture built on pride in craftsmanship and an unwavering commitment to excellence. In a time when traditional career paths are overemphasized, this podcast shines a light on an alternative: rewarding careers in skilled trades that offer creativity, financial stability, and the satisfaction of building something tangible. Whether you’re a seasoned trades professional, an aspiring craftsman, or simply curious about the industry, this podcast is your ultimate guide to the untold stories and secrets of success in trades like refrigeration, building, plumbing, and construction. Join Andrew Brown as he celebrates the artistry, resilience, and innovation of the skilled trades — and inspires a new generation to pick up the tools that keep our world running. About Andrew Brown Andrew Brown is a fervent advocate for the skilled trades and is dedicated to addressing and then fixing the trades shortage gap. Through platforms such as social media, podcasts, and live events, he tirelessly promotes the benefits of the trades to students, parents, and educators. For over 23 years Andrew along with his co-founder has built one of the country’s largest on-line tools and equipment eCommerce companies - Toolfetch - focused specifically on the Industrial & Construction Supply Industry. Follow Andrew Brown YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Toolfetch LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-brown-b1736a5/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@andrew.l.brown Website: https://www.toolfetch.com
Episodes
Host Andrew Brown sits down with Jon Lock—a working electrician and trades advocate—to break down the real-world journey through the electrician apprenticeship program, what it’s like navigating the union vs non-union electrician landscape, and the often-overlooked realities of pursuing a skilled trades career path.
Whether you're curious about how to become an electrician, preparing for your electrical journeyman license requiremen...
Host Andrew Brown sits down with serial entrepreneur and LiveSwitch founder Brian Hamilton to unpack what it really takes to succeed when starting a trades business. Brian shares real stories—from mentoring an ex-inmate contractor to lessons learned from running multi-million dollar tech and service companies. This episode is packed with contractor business advice, deep reflections on skilled trades entrepreneurship, and no-nonsens...
Host Andrew Brown sits down with Cale Mouser, a standout figure in the world of Skilled Trades Careers and Diesel Technician Training. From his humble beginnings as a mechanic in Kansas to competing on the global stage at WorldSkills Competition USA, Cale shares his inspiring path through technical college programs, international recognition, and the powerful role of industry support for trades. Whether you're an aspiring tradesper...
Host Andrew Brown welcomes Ryan Sullivan, founder of The Ryan Sullivan Show and Podcast Principles. They dive into Ryan’s journey from working as a mechanic to becoming a podcast strategist and entrepreneur. Ryan shares how the skilled trades industry shaped his work ethic and creativity, and how tradespeople can harness the power of podcasting and branding to elevate their blue collar businesses. Whether you're interested in skill...
Host Andrew Brown sits down with Bharani Rajakumar, CEO of Transfr, to explore the future of the skilled trades industry through the lens of virtual reality job training and trade school alternatives. From transformative success stories to the power of career exploration without a four-year degree, this conversation highlights real opportunities in skilled trades careers—including for women in the trades. Discover how technology is...
Host Andrew Brown sits down with Crystal Latham-Alford, Executive Director of SkillsUSA Texas. They dive into the impact of SkillsUSA competitions, the importance of career technical education (CTE), and how students can prepare for successful skilled trades careers. Crystal shares insights on how trade school opportunities help bridge the gap in the workforce, the role of soft skills training, and how industries can better support...
Host Andrew Brown welcomes Brooke Gatchell, Social Media Specialist at SkillsUSA, to discuss the impact of the SkillsUSA welding competition and other trade competitions on students and professionals. They explore how skilled trades careers are evolving, the importance of trade school opportunities, and how organizations like SkillsUSA contribute to workforce development programs. They also discuss the National Leadership and Skill...
Host Andrew Brown sits down with James Holster of Firefly Aerospace to discuss his journey into the skilled trades, how he became a specialist in welding in the aerospace industry, and his work on the Blue Ghost Moon Lander. They explore the challenges of precision welding for spacecraft, the importance of skilled trades careers, and why hands-on work is critical in today's economy. James shares insights from his time in the U.S. N...
Host Andrew Brown sits down with Michael Krupnicki, the current President of the American Welding Society (AWS), to discuss the evolving landscape of Skilled Trades Careers. They explore the importance of Welding Education, the role of VR Welding Simulation in attracting the next generation of welders, and the critical Welding Workforce Shortage facing the industry today. Michael shares insights on the state of Skilled Trades, the ...
Host Andrew Brown sits down with Boyd Worsham, President of NCCER, to discuss the importance of Skilled Trades Careers, Construction Workforce Development, and Carpentry Apprenticeships. Boyd shares his journey from high school carpentry to leading a national organization dedicated to workforce training and NCCER Certification Benefits. They dive into the challenges facing the Trades Industry, the ongoing labor shortage, and the im...
Host Andrew Brown speaks with Angela Coldwell, founder of Honor the Work, about the importance of early exposure to skilled trades education. They discuss how apprenticeships, career exploration, and hands-on learning can inspire the next generation of tradespeople. Angela shares insights on how educators and parents can guide students toward fulfilling careers in the trades industry, including carpentry, HVAC, electricians, plumbe...
Host Andrew Brown sits down with Barry Zekelman, CEO of Zekelman Industries. Barry shares his incredible journey from inheriting his father's struggling company at 19 to transforming it into one of North America's largest steel pipe and tube manufacturers. Together, they discuss entrepreneurship in skilled trades, the importance of trades advocacy, building a thriving trades industry culture, and empowering tradespeople to succeed....
Host Andrew Brown interviews Jennifer Cline, also known as "Jenny from the Shop," a social media influencer and skilled trades advocate. Jennifer shares her journey from an unexpected life event to becoming a DIY expert, trades advocate, and creator who inspires women in trades and beyond. They discuss the importance of trades careers, the challenges of entrepreneurship, and the power of social media in promoting trades advocacy.
IN...
Host Andrew Brown dives into an engaging conversation with William McCoy, founder of Via. They discuss the importance of skilled trades careers and the transformative role of trades industry technology in addressing labor shortages. William shares how his innovative app streamlines contractor communication tools, supports apprenticeship programs, and promotes sustainability in trades. The conversation highlights the challenges and ...
Host Andrew Brown and guest Ryan Kiscaden delve deep into the world of skilled trades. They discuss the importance and positive outlook of Skilled Trades Careers, the critical issue of Trade Skills Education, opportunities for Tech Integration in Trades, and the power of Children's Books on Trades.
Reinforce your passion for trades or discover new perspectives on this essential industry by tuning in!
IN THIS EPISODE:
(00:03:45) Intro...
Host Andrew Brown sits down with Jamie McMillan, an ironworker and advocate for skilled trades, to discuss her inspiring journey in a male-dominated field.
Jamie shares her insights on breaking stereotypes, the importance of hands-on skills, and the role of mentorship and social media in empowering future tradespeople. They also explore how tech integration and education can address the skilled trades shortage and inspire the next ...
We dive into the world of electric vehicles, Bogi Lateiner's empowering women-led Chevy build, and the challenges and triumphs of entrepreneurship in trades.
We sit down with the phenomenal Bogi Lateiner, known for her impressive work on "All Girls Garage." In this episode, Bogi shares her unique experiences with the quiet power of electric vehicles and how modern technology is reshaping the auto industry. We also cover her inspirin...
In this episode, we explore how VR and XR technologies enhance electrician training, boost safety, and bridge skill gaps. They discuss industry trends, career opportunities, women's representation, and Siemens' innovative initiatives.
Andrew Brown sits down with David Quatela to delve into the transformative role of technology in the trades, from virtual reality (VR) to extended reality (XR). They explore how these tools are enhanci...
In this episode Paige Knowles dives into the value of skilled trades, the stigma women face, and the importance of vocational education. Paige shares her journey, offers career tips, and highlights her influential books and initiatives.
Andrew Brown sits down with the inspiring Paige Knowles, a dedicated trades advocate and author, to uncover the challenges and triumphs women face in the skilled trades. Listen in as Paige and Andrew...
On this episode Melvyn Scofield dives into roofing safety, industry changes, and financial planning. They highlight the importance of proactive maintenance and share insights on career paths and earning potential in roofing.
We're diving deep into the challenging yet rewarding world of roofing with our esteemed guest, Melvyn Scofield . From the importance of safety protocols and proactive maintenance to significant industry shifts a...
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