Overcoming Challenges: ADHD and Personal Growth in the Trades with Jamie Mcmillan

Overcoming Challenges: ADHD and Personal Growth in the Trades with Jamie Mcmillan

Author: Andrew Brown December 10, 2024 Duration: 43:49

Host Andrew Brown sits down with Jamie McMillan, an ironworker and advocate for skilled trades, to discuss her inspiring journey in a male-dominated field.

Jamie shares her insights on breaking stereotypes, the importance of hands-on skills, and the role of mentorship and social media in empowering future tradespeople. They also explore how tech integration and education can address the skilled trades shortage and inspire the next generation to consider fulfilling careers in the trades.

IN THIS EPISODE:

(00:03:15) Social Media Impact on Trades: Elevating the visibility of tradespeople and inspiring the next generation.

(00:12:45) The Importance of Role Models and Mentorship in Trades: Jamie’s experience and the support she received.

(00:22:30) Concept of Being 'Self-Made': Importance of guidance and support from others.

(00:34:00) Mentoring Younger Generations: Reciprocal learning and the influence of mentorship.

(00:46:10) Challenges in Asking for Help: Personal struggles and the significance of reaching out.

(00:58:20) ADHD and Professional Life: Jamie’s journey, misdiagnoses, and managing ADHD effectively.

Key Takeaways:

  • Prove Your Worth: Breaking stereotypes requires hard work and proving your abilities in the trades.
  • Mentorship Matters: Seek and provide mentorship to foster growth and confidence in the skilled trades community.
  • Skilled Trades Education: Practical, hands-on education and exposure to trades can change the trajectory of a student’s life.
  • Adapt and Advocate: Embrace tech integration while advocating for the preservation of hands-on skills.

ABOUT THE GUEST:

Jamie McMillan is a trailblazing ironworker and co-founder of Kick Ass Careers, an organization dedicated to promoting skilled trades to students across North America. With over 21 years of experience, Jamie is a passionate advocate for women in the trades, using her platform to inspire the next generation and redefine perceptions of the industry.

RESOURCE LINKS

  • Website: https://madeinthetrade.com/
  • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamie-mcmillan-90010397/
  • YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Building2Resilience

Keywords:

social media impact on trades, Jamie McMillan, role models in trades, tradeswomen mentorship, ADHD and Skilled Trades, Skilled Trades Career, Trade Skills Education, Tech Integration in Trades, Children's Books on Trades, Trades Movement Newsletter, Skilled Trades, Trades Industry, Andrew Brown, Toolfetch, Carpentry, HVAC, Electricians, Plumbers, Millwrights, Construction, Craftsmanship, Problem-solving, Creativity, Tradespeople, Advocacy, Trades Careers, Industry Experts, Contractors, Education, Skilled Trades Advisory Council (STAC).


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: 90

The Lost Art Of the Skilled Trades
Podcast Episodes
What Actually Separates the Best Plumbers (Character Over Skill) [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 27:20
Before skill, before technology, trades careers are built on responsibility and showing up.Andrew Brown and Dan Callies, President of Oak Creek Plumbing, break down what actually sustains blue-collar careers: character,…
Why Welding Is Losing Young Talent (And How to Fix It) [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 51:39
Welding careers, welding apprenticeship programs, and the welding skills gap—Arc Junkies host Jason Becker breaks down what today’s welders need to know.Host Andrew Brown sits down with Jason Becker, Marine veteran, long…
The Truth About Plumbing Careers — Purpose, Pay & Starting at 40 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 24:57
Career change at 40? Learn how skilled trades careers, plumbing apprenticeships, and the Trade Up Program help adults start working with your hands.Host Andrew Brown sits down with Lixil America’s Senior National Sales T…