Want to start a plumbing career? Charles Goede joins host Andrew Brown to break down trade school training, union apprenticeships, and the SkillsUSA competition.

Host Andrew Brown sits down with Charles Goede , the U.S. competitor for WorldSkills Plumbing & Heating 2026, to explore how a young tradesperson rises through trade school training, excels in the SkillsUSA competition, and builds a long-term plumbing career.

Charles opens up about mentors who shaped him, the reality of union apprenticeships, what it’s like to compete on a world stage, and how the skilled trades create life-changing opportunities—from travel to high-earning work to lifelong craftsmanship.

Whether you’re curious about entering the trades industry, pursuing plumbing, or navigating union vs. non-union opportunities, this episode delivers raw, real-world insight from someone who’s lived it.

1. (00:01) – Starting a Plumbing Career Through Trade School Training. How Charles discovered trade school training, joined SkillsUSA, and realized the skilled trades were the right path.
2. (05:22) – SkillsUSA Competition: Pressure, Performance & Personal Growth. Charles explains competing at the SkillsUSA competition, winning Connecticut, and placing second in the nation—plus the nerves of performing in front of thousands.

1. (12:18) – Family Influence, Mentorship & Finding the Right Trade. Why he chose a plumbing career over welding or electrical, and how mentors, teachers, and his cousin guided him through early decision-making.

1. (18:40) – Big Mechanical Systems & Daily Problem-Solving in the Skilled Trades. A look at boilers, chillers, steam systems, blueprints, and why problem-solving is the heart of craftsmanship in the skilled trades.

1. (24:50) – Union Apprenticeships: Pay, Benefits & How to Get In. Charles breaks down why he recommends union apprenticeships, how competitive they are, and how persistence helps apprentices get accepted.

1. (32:15) – Preparing for WorldSkills 2026: Metric Systems, Training & Mental Toughness. Inside the intense world of WorldSkills: simulations, training on European plumbing systems, mental discipline, and representing the U.S. next year.

1. Trade school training opens real pathways into high-earning, meaningful careers in the skilled trades.
2. Union apprenticeships offer unmatched pay, training, and benefits, but require persistence and commitment.
3. The SkillsUSA competition builds confidence, problem-solving skills, and exposure to elite craftsmanship.
4. A successful plumbing career combines hands-on learning, mentorship, field experience, and adaptability—especially on major construction projects.

Charles Goede is a rising leader in America’s skilled trades and the official U.S. competitor for WorldSkills Plumbing & Heating 2026. After launching his plumbing career through trade school training, Charles excelled in the SkillsUSA competition,...