“Make the trades cool again”: pre-qual, safety and the future of the trades

In this episode of the Atomic Construction Podcast, Kevin Hohe and Kyle Nitchen go deep on some of the most important (but often overlooked) aspects of the construction industry—like safety, financial health, and why prequalification matters more than you might think.

They break down the real-world challenges contractors face when trying to scale or win new work, and why building strong relationships—especially with local teams—can change the game. This conversation is full of practical insight and a clear message: to elevate the trades, we’ve got to rethink how we operate.

Here’s what you’ll take away:

• Why safety and financial health are non-negotiables for success.
• What prequalification actually means—and why it matters for access and credibility.
• How understanding project costs leads to stronger budgeting and better outcomes.
• Why local contractors often bring better value and results to community projects.
• The role bonding plays for contractors working toward prequal standards.
• How the industry is evolving, and where opportunities for skilled trades are growing.
• The importance of continuous learning and staying sharp in an ever-changing industry.
• How projects that reflect the communities they serve lead to better, more lasting impact.

This one’s all about building smarter, safer, and stronger—for the long haul.

Stay connected:

• Kyle Nitchen | LinkedIn
• Kevin Hohe | LinkedIn

Produced by Pineapple Audio Production

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