Where Have All the Craftsmen Gone? (Part 2)

💼 Section 1: Why Trades Are a Smart Path Right Now

The side of the story most young people never hear in school:

• High Pay: Skilled trades regularly beat entry-level office salaries. With overtime/specialties, six-figure years happen.
• Independence: Earn, save, and launch your own shop—no corporate ladder required.
• Pride: You leave behind something real: safe wiring, a dry home, a room that functions and lasts.

For the data behind the shortage, see Part 1 of this series.

🧠 Section 2: The Psychology of Perception

The barrier isn't the work—it's the image:

• Media mockery: Craftsmen played for laughs, not respect.
• Social pressure: "College or bust" misses real, debt-light careers.
• Status symbols: Quick money and desk jobs get the spotlight; hard skills get sidelined.

"Working with your hands isn't a fallback—it's freedom. You can build a life you control."

🤝 Section 3: Mentorship & Apprenticeship — How Skill Actually Transfers

Skill is taught, not downloaded. Here's how I bring people in and help them grow:

• Shadow days: Ride-alongs to see real jobs, real pace, real safety.
• Structured repetition: The same task done right—again and again—until it sticks.
• Standards first: Code-compliant, tidy, labeled, documented—no shortcuts.
• Skill ladder: Helper → Apprentice → Journeyman → Lead. Earn as you learn.

I'm committed to mentoring and doing things right the first time. That's how craftsmanship survives.

🧰 Section 4: DIY vs. Pro — Knowing When It's Time to Call

I'm all for smart DIY, but there's a line where pro work protects your safety and wallet:

• Electrical panels, service upgrades, and EV charger circuits
• Gas lines, slab leaks, and structural changes
• Roof penetrations, flashing, and waterproofing details

When in doubt, I'll tell you what's DIY-friendly and what should be pro-installed—no pressure.

🚀 Section 5: Getting Started in the Trades (A Simple Roadmap)

• Pick a lane: Electrical, plumbing, carpentry, HVAC—start with what interests you.
• Find a mentor: Ask for paid helper work; show up early, take notes, own your mistakes.
• Learn standards: Safety, code, and clean workmanship are non-negotiable.
• Document work: Photos, part numbers, and checklists build your portfolio.
• Level up: Apprenticeship programs, manufacturer trainings, and certifications.

Parents, schools, and employers: help by celebrating skilled work and rebuilding the apprenticeship pipeline.

📣 Section 6: A Call to the Next Generation

If you want a career with dignity, real earnings, and visible results—this is it. Trades aren't second-best. They're the backbone of every home and neighborhood. Ready to learn? I'm ready to teach.

Start with Part 1 for the data behind the shortage, then come back here to plan your next step.