I love working in the trades, and I love seeing what organizations are doing to promote the trades. I came across an awesome skills trade series that I think you should check out! 

If this thriving YouTube Channel doesn’t get you pumped about the skilled trades, I don’t know what will!

 

Closing the Skilled Labour Gap

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Launched in 2023, SKILLS JAM, produced by Skilled Careers Coalition (SCC) which works in partnership with SkillsUSA,  is an inspiring content platform that showcases the thrills and skills of those who have chosen a career in the trades. Including teams from across the country who travel to Atlanta every year for a shot at the podium in SkillUSA’s National Leadership & Skills Championship! Found on YouTube, Instagram and TikTok, SKILLS JAM is a fun and exciting platform that’s all about skilled careers—created by young people, for young people.

 

 

With the skilled labour gap growing, SCC and SkillsUSA teamed up to make something big happen and connect young talent (like you or someone you know) with industries that really need them—think makers, builders, fixers, and creators stepping up to shape the future.

SKILLS JAM follows high school students from across the U.S. battling it out in a variety of skilled trades – from robotics and mechatronics to applied manufacturing and construction —live on stage at the SkillsUSA National Leadership and Skills Conference in Atlanta. It’s not just a competition —it’s a spotlight on skill, passion, and grit.

 

Plumber Paige

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Take “Plumber Paige” Knowles, a SkillsUSA alum and SKILLS JAM Jambassador. She shares her journey as a tradeswoman and her new-found role as an influencer helping to reach and inspire more young people to pursue a career in the trades.

 

 

“We are students who inspire others to look into the skilled trades. As someone who is so passionate about the skilled trades, getting to talk about it with others keeps me motivated and inspired.” she says.

 

Paige is proof that the skilled trades can take you to so many places you might never have imagined. I love that!

 

The Experience of A Lifetime In The Trades

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In addition to sharing stories across social media, SKILLS JAM also features students getting the experience of a lifetime rubbing shoulders and learning from industry pros. For instance, students have been given all-access passes to meet with entertainment pros at Warner Bros. Discovery and Ascendant Studios to get an up-close-and-personal, day-in-the-life view of where a skilled trade can take you – whether it’s building sets for a blockbuster movie, or designing the next video game that takes the industry by storm. 

Parents, mentors and educators, if you think your kid can’t do this or might need some extra support—this is exactly the kind of thing that can help encourage them to consider a career in the skilled trades. It’s so inspiring!

 

 

Check out another episode where you’ll meet construction teams heading to Nationals, including an all-young-women’s team from Jacksonville crushing it in plumbing, electrical, masonry, and carpentry. The opportunities in the skilled trades are way bigger than most people think.

 

 

Skilled Trades Awareness Is Essential

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Win or lose, competitions like Skills USA’s National Skills & Leadership Conference open doors you never thought possible, and organizations like this are essential in creating awareness and supporting the skilled trades.

There is an exciting future in the skilled trades and SKILLS JAM and SkillsUSA are changing the game. They’re bringing the energy and showing you how skilled trades can be exciting, rewarding, and yes—super cool. Check them out!

 

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About Sherry Holmes

Sherry Holmes, daughter of renowned contractor Mike Holmes, is a skilled contractor and TV personality. Following in her father’s footsteps, she brings expertise in home renovation, focusing on quality craftsmanship and safer, more sustainable homes. She actively supports youth and women in the trades through Skills Canada, World Skills, and community outreach programs like Jill of All Trades and many other organizations. Also, an ambassador for the Meagan Bebenek Foundation, Sherry advocates for pediatric brain tumour research and fundraising.

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