The Trades Are Calling: Why College Isn’t the Only Smart Option Anymore

Episode Summary

College is a path—but it’s no longer the only path to a thriving future. In this episode, host Lisa Nehring breaks down why skilled trades (think welding, plumbing, HVAC, coding, and more) are exploding in demand and offer solid pay, zero college debt, and AI-proof job security. You’ll hear real-world salary numbers, success stories, and how True North Academy’s Trades & Tech Track can launch teens straight from high school into meaningful, well-paid work.

Quick Listen Guide TimestampSegment 0:00Welcome & episode tease—“the trades are calling” 0:55 Sponsor Break: Medical Transcription work-from-home opportunity (email [e-mail]) 2:15Why skilled trades beat the outdated “college or bust” mindset 2:34Josh’s story—$60K HVAC salary vs. debt-heavy communications degree 3:09 Eye-opening stats: 40 % college dropout rate, 650K+ trade openings 3:41Salary snapshot: electricians $60K, plumbers $63K, HVAC $55–85K, welders $50–90K, diesel mechanics $57K, elevator installers $88K 4:07“Golden Age of Trades”: why AI can’t crawl under a house to reroute a sewer line 5:03Cost & timeline to certify (many in 6–12 months; paid apprenticeships available) 6:05Inside True North Academy’s Trades & Tech Track—two-year fast track, cognia-accredited diploma, hands-on academics 6:47Ava’s story—19-year-old welder earning $58K and saving to start her own shop 7:31Signs your teen might be born for the trades (and how to support them) 7:47Call to action: Learn more at https://truenorthhomeschool.academy/true-north-trade-tech-diploma/ 8:07Closing encouragement & share request Key Takeaways

• Trades are booming: 650,000+ skilled-trade jobs are open in the U.S., many with starting salaries above $50K and strong growth projections.

• Faster, cheaper path: Most certifications take < 1 year; many employers pay you to learn via apprenticeships.

• AI-proof careers: Robots can draft an email, but they can’t fix a diesel engine or install solar panels on your roof.

• Debt-free launch: Skip six years of college and tens of thousands in loans—start earning while your peers are still in lecture halls.

• True North Academy solution: The Trades & Tech Track pairs accredited academics with hands-on trade exploration, preparing students for immediate entry into high-demand fields or further certification/associate degrees.

Links & Resources

• 🔧 True North Academy Trades & Tech Track:
  https://truenorthhomeschool.academy/true-north-trade-tech-diploma/

• 📚 Mike Rowe Works Foundation Scholarships: https://www.mikeroweworks.org/scholarship/

• 🗓️ Free Webinar—Medical Transcription from Home: email [e-mail] for details

Connect With Us

• Website: https://NotThatHardToHomeschool.com

• Facebook Group: It’s Not That Hard to Homeschool High School

• Instagram: @NotThatHardToHomeschool

If this episode challenged your thinking, share it with a friend and leave a review—it helps more homeschool families discover fresh paths to success!

Keywords: trades education, skilled trades careers, homeschool high school, alternative to college, True North Academy, welding salary, HVAC apprenticeship, AI-proof jobs, homeschool podcast