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Building High Paying Trade Careers: How Manufacturing Can Make a Comeback in America w/ Roger Atkins

Building High Paying Trade Careers: How Manufacturing Can Make a Comeback in America w/ Roger Atkins

Author: Andrew Brown September 3, 2025 Duration: 49:48
The Lost Art Of the Skilled Trades
BusinessCareersEducationEntrepreneurshipHow To

Careers in manufacturing and skilled trades jobs are booming. Roger Atkins (NTMA) joins Andrew Brown to discuss manufacturing apprenticeship programs, reshoring manufacturing USA, and high paying trade careers.

Host Andrew Brown sits down with Roger Atkins, President of the National Tooling & Machining Association (NTMA), to explore how today’s skilled trades jobs are shaping the future of the trades industry. From the growth of manufacturing apprenticeship programs to the nationwide push for reshoring manufacturing USA, they cover how to build high paying trade careers that rival college pathways.

Whether you’re just starting out, considering a career change, or advising young people, this episode provides real insights into the future of the skilled trades.

IN THIS EPISODE:

● (00:00) – Careers in Manufacturing Today: Why trades careers matter more than ever.

● (04:32) – Skilled Trades Jobs vs. Service Jobs: The hidden financial difference.

● (12:15) – Manufacturing Apprenticeship Programs: Earn while you learn pathways into trades.

● (22:40) – Reshoring Manufacturing USA: Why supply chains are shifting back home.

● (33:10) – High Paying Trade Careers: From $18/hr apprenticeships to six-figure tradespeople.

● (44:55) – The Future of the Trades Industry: AI, technology, and advocacy reshaping the landscape.

Key Takeaways

● Careers in manufacturing offer advancement and stability far beyond entry-level jobs.

● Skilled trades jobs like carpentry, HVAC, electricians, plumbers, and millwrights provide lifelong pathways.

● Manufacturing apprenticeship programs allow people to train debt-free while earning a wage.

● Reshoring manufacturing USA is driving demand for high paying trade careers across small and medium businesses.

About the Guest

Roger Atkins is the President of the National Tooling & Machining Association (NTMA). With decades in the trades industry, Roger has been a leading advocate for reshoring initiatives, building manufacturing apprenticeship programs, and expanding awareness of skilled trades jobs. His work with the Skilled Trades Advisory Council and industry experts focuses on creating high paying trade careers for future generations of tradespeople, contractors, and career changers.

Keywords

Careers in Manufacturing, Skilled Trades Jobs, Manufacturing Apprenticeship Programs, Reshoring Manufacturing USA, High Paying Trade Careers, Skilled Trades, Trades Industry, Carpentry, HVAC, Electricians, Plumbers, Millwrights, Construction, Contractors, Industry Experts, Andrew Brown, Roger Atkins, National Tooling & Machining Association, NTMA, Toolfetch, Skilled Trades Advisory Council, Tradespeople, Craftsmanship, Problem-solving, Creativity, Advocacy, Education, Trades Careers

Resource Links

LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roger-atkins/

Website: https://ntma.org/

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There's a quiet revolution happening in the workforce, one built on the sound of a hammer, the hum of a saw, and the satisfaction of a job done with your own hands. The Lost Art Of the Skilled Trades is a conversation about that shift, guided by Andrew Brown. This isn't just a technical manual; it's a deep exploration of the craft, business, and profound personal fulfillment found in skilled trades. Andrew draws from his own journey through hands-on work and entrepreneurship to frame discussions that are as much about building a life as they are about building things. Each episode connects the dots between practical skill, viable career paths, and the entrepreneurial mindset needed to thrive independently. You'll hear from seasoned professionals who share their hard-won wisdom, alongside discussions on navigating the business side of trades, from client relations to financial stability. The goal is to elevate the conversation around these essential careers, moving beyond stereotypes to highlight the creativity, critical thinking, and dignity inherent in skilled work. Tune into this podcast for honest stories, actionable advice, and a renewed appreciation for the foundational crafts that shape our world.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 50

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The Lost Art Of the Skilled Trades
Podcast Episodes
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