Skilled trades summer camps are transforming lives. Angie Simon joins Andrew Brown to talk trades careers, apprenticeships, and women in construction programs.
Host Andrew Brown speaks with Angie Simon, founder of the Heavy Metal Summer Experience, about how skilled trades summer camps are creating real careers in the trades for youth. From women in construction programs to sheet metal apprenticeship opportunities, this episode explores how hands-on camps are reshaping the future of the trades industry by giving teens, especially those from underserved communities, an exciting trade school alternative to college.
You’ll hear success stories, insider insights, and the practical tools these camps offer: free boots, tools, real trade skills (welding, plumbing, electrical), and mentorship from industry professionals.
Whether you're a parent, a contractor, or someone passionate about trades careers, this episode gives you a clear look at what’s working—and how you can be part of the change.
IN THIS EPISODE:
● (02:10) – How 65% of sheet metal contractors started in the trades
● (08:35) – What skilled trades summer camps look like day-to-day
● (14:20) – The growing impact of women in construction programs
● (20:05) – Trade school alternatives to college and why they matter
● (27:50) – Why sheet metal apprenticeship opportunities are booming
● (34:30) – How camps are changing the future of the skilled trades industry
Key Takeaways:
● Skilled trades summer camps are opening doors to high-paying, hands-on careers for teens.
● More women in construction programs are succeeding—especially in welding and fabrication.
● These camps are effective trade school alternatives to college for at-risk youth.
● Sheet metal apprenticeship opportunities are in demand and can lead to business ownership.
About the Guest:
Angie Simon is a pioneering figure in the trades industry and co-founder of the Heavy Metal Summer Experience. With over 35 years in construction, including 15 years as president of a major mechanical contracting firm, she launched this nonprofit to grow the next generation of tradespeople. Her summer camps introduce youth to carpentry, HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and sheet metal trades, while also leading initiatives for women in construction programs and creating trade school alternatives to college for underserved communities.
Keywords
Skilled Trades Summer Camps, Careers in the Trades for Youth, Women in Construction Programs, Sheet Metal Apprenticeship Opportunities, Trade School Alternatives to College, Skilled Trades, Trades Industry, Trades Careers, Contractors, Industry Experts, Education, Advocacy, Tradespeople, Problem-solving, Creativity, Andrew Brown, Angie Simon, Heavy Metal Summer Experience, Toolfetch, Skilled Trades Advisory Council, Carpentry, HVAC, Electricians, Plumbers, Millwrights, Construction, Craftsmanship
Resource Links:
Website: https://www.hmse.org/
LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/angie-simon-pe-666744/
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