In this episode of Construction Champions, host Ron Nussbaum talks with JJ Owen, Executive Director of the Skilled Careers Coalition, and Jennifer Wilkerson, Vice President of NCCER, about how we can rebuild the reputation of construction and inspire the next generation of builders.
They discuss how social media storytelling, mentorship, and authentic on-the-job content are transforming how Gen Z and Gen Alpha view the trades and how every contractor can get involved.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode
- Why construction doesn’t need hype, it needs authenticity
- How to make the trades aspirational again through real storytelling
- How TikTok & YouTube creators are reshaping recruitment
- The “Tool Belt Generation” what Gen Z really thinks about the trades
- How to connect contractors directly with local schools
- Why apprenticeships are the real four-year degree
- The massive opportunity for parents, coaches, and mentors to help
- How to turn awareness into long-term careers and pride in building America