In this episode of the Trades Podcast, hosts Danny Torres and Jeff Mudd interview Brian Huff, CEO of Midwest Technical Institute and Delta Technical College. They discuss the importance of skilled trades, particularly welding, and the growing demand for workers in these fields. Brian shares his journey from a welder to an educator, emphasizing the need for job placement and employer-focused education. The conversation also touches on the skills gap, the importance of soft skills, and the changing perceptions of trades in the education system. Brian provides insights into the future of the trades, the value of trade education, and advice for parents and students considering a career in the trades.

Takeaways

• Job placement is crucial for trade education success.
• The demand for skilled tradespeople is increasing.
• Welding is a vital skill with numerous job opportunities.
• The skills gap in the trades is urgent and growing.
• Soft skills are becoming increasingly important in trades education.
• Trade education is often more affordable than traditional college.
• A good work ethic can lead to career advancement in trades.
• The perception of trades as a second-tier option needs to change.
• Automation in trucking is still a long way off.
• The trades are foundational to the economy and society.

Midwest Technical Institute (MTI)
Website: www.midwesttech.edu
Phone: (888) 709-8324
Locations: Illinois and Missouri
Contact Page: https://www.midwesttech.edu/

Delta Technical College (DTC)
Website: www.deltatechnicalcollege.com
Phone: (866) 733-6652
Locations: Mississippi and Arkansas
Contact Page: https://www.deltatechnicalcollege.com

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Trades Podcast

03:01 Brian Huff's Journey in Welding and Education

05:52 The Growing Demand for Welders

08:50 The Skills Gap and Job Opportunities in Trades

11:43 Connecting Education with Employment

14:47 The Importance of Job Placement in Trade Education

17:48 The Future of Trucking and Automation

20:43 Changing Perceptions of Trades as a Career Path

24:06 The Eisenhower Moment and Vocational Education

25:53 The Shift in Education: Gen Z and Trade Skills

30:07 The Role of Educators in Trade Schools

32:23 The Importance of Soft Skills in Trades

34:18 The Essential Nature of Trades in Society

36:39 Becoming a Good Worker: The Key to Success

40:55 Opportunities in the Trades for Veterans and Young Adults

46:00 The Bright Future of Trade Careers