How does a kid who grew up in an apple orchard end up helping design engine test cells and running dyno labs for emissions work? In Episode 09 of Skillcast, Shawn Bogedain walks us through a trades-to-tech career that spans farming, house building, demolition, vocational schooling, and advanced engine and emissions testing at Ford and Johnson Matthey Testing.

In this episode you'll learn:
* How vocational programs and hands-on work build durable technical skills and career momentum
* What it's like to work in a dyno lab (how engines are tested, what "firing every 30 revolutions" means, and why precision matters)
* The real-world role of emissions testing, catalysts, and aftertreatment systems in meeting EPA standards
* How demolition, abatement, and construction teach safety, teamwork, and problem solving
* Practical career advice for tradespeople who want to move into R&D, test engineering, or high-tech manufacturing

Why this matters: As vehicles get more complex and emissions standards tighten, industry needs skilled technicians who understand both hands-on systems and lab controls. Shawn's story shows how curiosity, vocational training, and on-the-job experience can lead to roles that influence engine innovation, emissions control, and test cell design.

#TradesToTech #EngineInnovation #EmissionsTesting #VocationalEducation #DynoLab #SkilledTrades #AutomotiveEngineering

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