Are you looking for a high-demand skilled trade that doesn't require a four‑year college degree?

In this episode of Trade Pathways on SkillCast, Jon Kapel breaks down the career of a rigger — the professionals who secure, guide, and move massive loads using cranes, hoists, slings, and rigging hardware. Riggers are essential across construction, shipyards, refineries, event rigging, and heavy industrial plants, and the trade blends hands‑on skill, safety know‑how, and clear communication.

What you'll hear in this episode: • Day‑to‑day rigger duties: prepping lifts, attaching gear, signaling, and inspections
• Entry routes: apprenticeships/union programs, trade‑school certificates, and on‑the‑job progression
• Safety essentials: OSHA training, PPE, fall protection, and inspection routines
• Certifications employers value: NCCCO rigger/signal credentials and state licensing nuances
• Pay outlook and career ladder: typical ranges, union packages, and advancement paths
• A practical 90‑Day Action Plan to start moving toward a rigging career

Many riggers begin in paid union apprenticeships or short certificate programs; others move into rigging after experience in related construction trades. If you want active, often outdoor work with strong pay upside, this episode gives you a clear, practical roadmap.

Listen & take action: • Download the FREE 90‑Day Action Plan for Riggers: https://bit.ly/4mpmYQ5
• Watch the Day in the Life video: https://www.tiktok.com/@annatherigger/video/7439681139553455392?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc
• Subscribe to SkillCast on YouTube for the full Trade Pathways series: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCnfj-T5Oq_vljTQ2b0guaSg

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In Episode 08, Jon interviews his father Jeff — a lifelong tradesman whose path from drafting and shop class to small-business owner and then boiler operator is full of hard choices, earned confidence, and practical wisdom. Jeff shares the one-hour transmission story that proved his skill, the difficult decision to sell his shop as the industry shifted, and how retraining later in life gave him steadier pay and a kinder workload. This episode is for anyone exploring alternatives to the college-first story, hiring for hands-on roles, or just wanting to hear an honest conversation about pride in work and resilience.

🎧 Listen on YouTube @SkillStigma or on your favorite podcast platform.

If you're interested in diving deeper into how the skilled trades can change your life, check out my book Skill Stigma, where I explore the myths and the untold truths about the world of skilled labor.

It's time to redefine what success looks like and discover the power of a career in the trades:

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Are you looking for a high-demand skilled trade career that doesn't require a four-year college degree?
In this episode of Trade Pathways on Skillcast, we break down the career of a locksmith—one of the most overlooked but essential jobs in the skilled trades. From helping people during lockouts to installing advanced security systems, locksmiths play a critical role in protecting homes, businesses, and vehicles. If you enjoy problem-solving, technology, puzzles, and hands-on work, this trade might be a perfect fit. Locksmithing today goes far beyond cutting keys. Many locksmiths work with electronic locks, security systems, safes, access control systems, and commercial security installations.

In this episode, we cover:
• What locksmiths actually do day to day
• How to become a locksmith (training, apprenticeships, and certifications)
• Licensing requirements and career pathways
• Locksmith salary and job outlook
• Entrepreneurial opportunities in the locksmith trade
• A 90-day action plan to help you get started in this career

Many locksmiths begin with apprenticeships or trade school programs lasting 6–12 months, allowing them to learn both mechanical and electronic security systems before entering the workforce. Whether you're exploring a career change, trade school, or a high-paying job without college, this episode gives you a clear roadmap to entering the locksmith industry.

Subscribe to Skillcast for our Trade Pathways series, where we break down skilled trades careers and show you exactly how to get started.
Download the 90-Day Action Plan for Locksmiths HERE - and start exploring this career today.

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Available wherever you listen to your favorite podcasts. New episodes drop every 2 weeks.
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📚 Grab your copy of Skill Stigma here: https://skillstigma.com/product/skill-stigma-paperback-book/

🔔 Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more stories about careers in the trades and practical advice for building a fulfilling future! #SkilledTrades #ContractorLife #SkillStigma #Construction #Design #TradeJobs #BuildingPassion #FulfillingCareers #Tradesman #ConstructionLife #BookLaunch