Holmes on Homes Podcast with Mike Holmes: Season 5 – Episode 10

The skilled trades are in a race against time. With an aging workforce and fewer young people entering the field, the industry is facing a critical shortage that could affect everything from home construction to infrastructure development. But what can be done to ensure the future of skilled trades is secure? How can we help close the skilled trades gap?

On this episode of the Holmes on Homes Podcast, Mike Holmes sits down with Rob Almond, CEO of NEST Facilities Management. They discuss the current state of the trades and what steps are being taken to overcome the industry’s biggest challenges. From Mike’s personal journey in the trades to his legacy of “making it right,” they explore what it takes to build a sustainable future for the skilled workforce.

Mike and Rob dive into the importance of mentorship and industry collaboration. They also talk about how programs like the Holmes Foundation and the Skilled Trades Advisory Council (STAC) are helping bridge the skills gap. They also discuss the pressing issue of ensuring quality, trust, and safety in an industry that’s essential but often overlooked. 

Are you concerned about the skilled trades shortage? Wondering what can be done to fix it? Tune in for unfiltered advice and insights from the experts.

5. What role does mentorship play in developing skilled trades professionals?

Mentorship is crucial in the skilled trades, providing hands-on training, guidance, and knowledge transfer from experienced professionals to newcomers, ensuring high standards and continuity in the industry.

6. How can we encourage more young people to enter the trades?

More young people need to see the trades—plumbing, electrical, carpentry—as rewarding careers with job security and great pay. Programs like the Holmes Foundation and the Skilled Trades Advisory Council (STAC) promote education, mentorship, and training to change the outdated mindset that success only comes with a university degree.

7. Does Mike Holmes have a foundation, and how does it support the trades?

The Holmes Foundation provides scholarships and support for students entering the skilled trades. Mike Holmes founded it to help future tradespeople get the training and mentorship they need—because skilled trades aren’t just jobs, they’re essential careers.

8. What is the Skilled Trades Advisory Council (STAC)?

The Skilled Trades Advisory Council (STAC) is a group of national industry leaders from construction, retail, facilities management, and the skilled trades, working together to tackle the labor shortage. STAC’s mission is to create awareness and opportunities for careers in essential fields like electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and construction. By leveraging their expertise and networks, STAC aims to elevate the trades as high-paying, honorable, and vital career paths.

The Holmes on Homes Podcast, hosted by Mike Holmes, seasoned professional contractor and TV host, is your go-to source for expert insights on home improvement, safety, maintenance, skilled trades, and industry innovation. Each episode features expert guests and valuable takeaways, covering everything from choosing the right materials, aging in place, and electrical safety to the future of construction with 3D printing, pondscaping, and even raising healthy pets in a healthy home.

Whether it’s renovating for accessibility, improving indoor air quality, or tackling the skilled trades stigma, Mike and his guests break it all down with real talk, hard truths, and the no-nonsense advice that’s made him a trusted name in home improvement. Because when it comes to building better, it pays to Make It Right.

With over 40 years of experience, Mike provides practical advice and industry best practices, empowering homeowners to make informed decisions. Whether you’re a first-time homeowner, professional contractor, or planning a major renovation, this podcast is your go-to source for everything home-related.