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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#SkilledTrades #ContractorLife #SkillStigma #Construction #Design #TradeJobs #BuildingPassion #FulfillingCareers #Tradesman #ConstructionLife #BookLaunch

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

Listen to SkillCast while you're on the go 🎧

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:

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🔔 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