America doesn't have a shortage of skilled trades careers. It has a shortage of awareness, mentorship, and experienced workers to train the next generation.
In this episode of Skilled Nation, host Jimmy Rhoades sits down with Concetta Defa, electrician, workforce advocate, and host of Hire PowHER, to uncover the real reasons behind the skilled trades workforce shortage.
While many conversations focus on labor shortages, Concetta explains why the biggest challenge is the apprenticeship pipeline. As experienced journeyworkers retire, fewer mentors remain to train future electricians, lineworkers, heavy equipment operators, welders, HVAC technicians, plumbers, and other skilled professionals.
They also discuss:
• Why employers are ready to hire more skilled workers • The apprenticeship bottleneck slowing workforce growth • Why hands-on learning cannot be replaced by classrooms alone • How Concetta became an electrician after a life-changing accident • The role mentorship plays in building long-term careers • Why more women are entering construction and energy careers • Common misconceptions about skilled trades • Why construction workers are some of the most highly skilled professionals in America • How Hire PowHER is helping build the next generation of skilled workers
Whether you're a student, career changer, educator, employer, contractor, union member, or simply curious about the future of America's workforce, this conversation offers an inside look at the opportunities shaping the skilled trades.
Guest: Conchita Defa Electrician | Workforce Development Advocate | Host of Hire PowHER
HirePowHER.org @HirePowHer @GetintoEnergy
00:00 America's Skilled Trades Workforce Crisis 01:18 What's Really Causing the Skills Gap? 03:18 The Hidden Apprenticeship Bottleneck 05:21 Why Hands-On Learning Still Matters 06:35 Becoming an Electrician by Accident 09:40 How Apprenticeships Work Today 11:56 Paying Your Dues as an Apprentice 14:05 Why Conchita Started Hire PowHER 18:21 Changing How America Sees Skilled Trades
