Smart Homes Need Smart Technicians
I remember way back as a child visiting some homes that still had iceboxes rather than refrigerators and milk delivered by a milkman. Similarly, I bet many of you reading this grew up in homes without many of the modern conveniences we now take for granted. Many “smart homes” of today are equipped with technology […]
Do You Have Skeletons In Your Closet?
Before hiring anyone, most trade employers will do a background check that includes criminal history, driving records and past employment. If they’re diligent, they will also attempt to contact the people you list as references to see what they say about you. If you have a clean background, have never been in significant trouble, and […]
Prepare To Answer These Questions
You’ve filled out your job application. If you fit the role, your would-be employer will ask to meet you for at least one and sometimes multiple face-to-face interview sessions. Whether you are a highly paid executive or a novice seeking to become a trade apprentice, how you handle this part of the process goes a […]
Trades Talk – August 2024
August 2024 Fireworks & Dessert Party with Explore The Trades Join Explore The Trades at EPCOT® for a Fireworks & Dessert Party! Explore The Trades is looking forward to visiting Walt Disney World® for a “Fireworks and Dessert” party in EPCOT®. Enjoy sweet treats, dazzling entertainment, and a chance to ride a popular attraction at […]
Soar With The Eagles
If and when you enter a trade, you will meet a variety of new people both as co-workers and mentors. As in any occupation, they are likely to be a mixture of personalities and attributes. Some may be hard-working, others not. Some will be outgoing, others introverted, and so on. Some will likely share certain […]
Understanding the Role Donors Play in Advancing Trades Opportunities
Nonprofit donations provide critical support in attracting young people to the skilled trades. Nonprofits have been established to provide resources and information for those considering the skilled trades as well as cementing partnerships with trades schools and apprenticeship programs to facilitate education for burgeoning tradespeople. Let’s take a closer look at the role donors play […]
Twitter Wisdom
I’m sure most of you have heard of what used to be called “Twitter” (now labeled “X” under Elon Musk’s ownership). It’s a social media entity where people can share opinions/photos/videos about anything under the sun. Some of you may have participated by “tweeting” something along the way. I have a Twitter account that I […]
Trades Talk – June 2024
June 2024 Recipients of the“Explore The Trades Skills Lab, Built by Ferguson”Grants Announced12 Schools to Receive Support to Create and UpdatePlumbing & HVAC Labs The “Explore The Trades Skills Lab, Built by Ferguson” equipment grant recipients were announced on May 1, 2024, in celebration of National Skilled Trades Day. In its third year, the Skills […]
How To Quit Your Job
My last blog gave “10 Tips On Starting A New Job.” I think it’s a good idea to address the flip side. Some of you reading this may already have a job and are looking to leave in order to embark on a career in the plumbing, heating, cooling, or electrical trades. Or, maybe you’re […]
Three Ways You Can Support the Next Generation of Skilled Workers
The struggle to attract young people to the skilled trades has been well-documented. We need to work together to ensure we have the people needed to offer these crucial services. Few industries offer the career stability and progression that the trades can provide. Additionally, skilled workers can choose to work for a company or lean […]