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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New episodes drop every 2 weeks.
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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:

Listen to the Skillcast podcast 🎧 — Subscribe on your favorite platform:
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📚 Grab your copy of Skill Stigma here: https://skillstigma.com/store
🔔 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 #jobsearch #jobseekers #employmentnews #careerwithoutcollege #careerpaths #careeradvice

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.

Listen to the Skillcast podcast while you're on-the-go! 🎧
Available wherever you listen to your favorite podcasts. New episodes drop every 2 weeks.
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5aQjM01pg9WToLiH0OB2Fs
Apple Podcast: https://sites.libsyn.com/560405/site/links
iHeartRadio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/263-skillcast-293557600 —
Subscribe to the channel here: @SkillStigma ---
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Website: www.skillstigma.com TikTok: /skillstigmaproject ---
📚 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

Is college debt the only way to build a successful career?

In this episode of SkillCast, we sit down with Michelle Underwood, REALTOR® and SRES® with Platinum Real Estate in Mentor, Ohio, to talk about career clarity, influence, and why avoiding unnecessary debt can open unexpected doors.

At 15 years old, Michelle's mom put her in the car and said, "We're going to find you a job." That early push into the workforce shaped how Michelle thinks about responsibility, work ethic, and making informed career decisions.

Later, when she considered becoming a physical therapist, her parents encouraged her to volunteer first. That experience saved her from pursuing a path that wasn't the right fit — and potentially taking on debt for a career she would have regretted.

In this episode, we explore:

• How early job experience builds long-term clarity

• Why your "sphere of influence" shapes career decisions

• How the gig economy has shifted perspectives on work

• The evolving narrative around skilled trades

• How industries like real estate depend on skilled trades every day

• Why avoiding the "debt trap" matters more than ever

As a trusted real estate advisor with over 10 years of experience in Northeast Ohio, Michelle sees firsthand how electricians, plumbers, HVAC installers, and contractors directly impact property value and community stability.

This conversation challenges the idea that success requires massive student loans — and highlights how exposure, experience, and informed decision-making can lead to a fulfilling and financially sound career.

If you're exploring career options, guiding students, considering real estate, or rethinking the traditional college path, this episode is for you.

🎧 Watch the full episode on YouTube or listen on your favorite podcast platform.

Listen to the Skillcast podcast while you're on-the-go!

Available wherever you listen to your favorite podcasts. New episodes drop every two weeks. Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5aQjM01pg9WToLiH0OB2Fs

ApplePodcast: https://sites.libsyn.com/560405/site/links

iHeartRadio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/263-skillcast-293557600 —

Subscribe to the channel here: @SkillStigma ---

Follow me here: Instagram: /skillstigmaproject
Facebook: /skillstigmaproject
Website: www.skillstigma.com
TikTok: /skillstigmaproject ---
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

Join us in this inspiring episode as we chat with Steve Harbolt, a highly skilled mechanic turned stationary steam engineer. Hear how his journey from the automotive world to the world of steam shaped his perspective and deepened his technical expertise. Steve has built a fulfilling career that not only expanded his knowledge but also gave him the life he always envisioned for his family. 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: https://skillstigma.com/product/skill-stigma-paperback-book/

Listen to the Skillcast podcast 🎧 —

Subscribe on your favorite platform:

▶️ https://bit.ly/skillcastoniheart

▶️ https://bit.ly/skillcastonspotify

--- Follow Skill Stigma here:

🔘 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skillstigma/

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🔘TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@skillstigma

🌐Website: https://skillstigma.com ---

📚 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 #jobsearch #jobseekers #employmentnews #careerwithoutcollege #careerpaths #careeradvice

Today we're talking with contractor Bill Mullet, who shares his journey from uncertain beginnings to discovering his true calling in the world of building and design.

While he never expected to find his passion in the trades, over the years, he's learned that sometimes the most fulfilling careers can emerge in the most surprising places.

Bill shows us how embracing the skilled trades has not only transformed his career, but also his life.

Whether you're considering a career in construction, design, or simply looking for a meaningful way to contribute to the world around you, this video will show you why the trades are more than just a job.

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: https://skillstigma.com/product/skill-stigma-paperback-book/

Join us as we interview Matthew, a stationary steam engineer, as he shares his journey into the skilled trades, proving that intellect and craftsmanship go hand in hand.

Hear how this career allows him to harness his unique strengths, blending his strengths and craftsmanship, while providing purpose and support for his family.
Whether you're considering a career in construction, design, or simply looking for a meaningful way to contribute to the world around you, this video will show you why the trades are more than just a job.

--

YouTube Timecodes:
:55 His background in the trades
7:18 How he got into steam
13:45 His first days on the job as a steam engineer
15:48 How the trades connect to his family life
17:15 How he feels about his career path
21:20 His advice to other people considering this career
24:25 How being open to the skilled trades can benefit your life

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Listen to the Skillcast podcast while you're on-the-go! 🎧 Available wherever you listen to your favorite podcasts. New episodes drop every month.

---

Follow me here:

Instagram: /skillstigmaproject

Facebook: /skillstigmaproject

Website: www.skillstigma.com

TikTok: /skillstigmaproject

---

📚 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

Meet Javier, an electrician with a unique journey that began in Guatemala.

Javier's path led him through university before meeting someone who helped him to discover his true calling in the world of electricity. Hear how his passion for the trade powers his life and career.

Whether you're considering a career in construction, design, or simply looking for a meaningful way to contribute to the world around you, this video will show you why the trades are more than just a job.

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YouTube Timecodes:
:55 Growing up in Guatemala

3:20 How he got into electrical
5:23 The need for skilled trades
6:55 How he decided to invest in the electrical industry
10:00 How to get into a skilled trade
11:18 How to set yourself apart
13:55 The obstacles he's experienced and overcome
19:20 How the skilled trades benefited his personal life
24:33 The passion behind his career
27:25 What keeps him motivated
29:37 Javier's hopes for the future
31:55 How to get into the electrical trade

—

Listen to the Skillcast podcast while you're on-the-go! 🎧 Available wherever you listen to your favorite podcasts. New episodes drop monthly.

---

Follow me here:

Instagram: /skillstigmaproject

Facebook: /skillstigmaproject

Website: www.skillstigma.com

TikTok: /skillstigmaproject

---

📚 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