Get an inside look at the changing face of manufacturing and the skilled trades with hosts Jessica Bird and Darryl Gratrix, founder of NextGen Skilled Trades Consulting. Darryl shares his personal path from a non-technical background to a leader in Canadian manufacturing, addressing tough questions about why the industry is losing talent and what can actually be done to bring the next generation in.

This conversation takes on classic myths about trade school, the realities of modern shops, and the shift from old-school “crusty” toolrooms to investing in people and technology. Learn how VR and AI are being used for training, the critical role of confidence versus skill, and what’s working to build a better future for tradespeople and manufacturers.

Whether you’re a shop owner, educator, parent, or a student considering career options, this episode is packed with grounded advice, candid stories, and actionable ideas for changing perceptions and building community.

———

Connect with Jess on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicaurbans/

Connect with Christina on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christinacasanova/

Connect with Darryl on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/darryl-gratrix-373827309/

———Join CNC Underground Newsletter! https://swiy.co/cncunderground

Join CNC Underground — the go-to weekly newsletter read by 6,000+ elite machinists and programmers. Get cutting-edge tips, tooling strategies, CAM shortcuts, and industry updates in one tight, no-fluff email.

————

About Midwest CAM Solutions: Midwest CAM Solutions is the world’s largest GibbsCAM reseller, helping manufacturers boost productivity with expert CAM software solutions, training, and support.

Learn more at: www.midwestcamsolutions.com

—————————————————————————————————