First in Future: Sr. Director of Trade Skills and Learning Innovation at Lowe’s Companies Michael Mitchell

Summary: A recent study says that 62% of businesses are having trouble filling skilled trades positions, and 74% expect to have trouble in the future. The problem is not pay; the pay is good. It is aging and lack of interest. 53% of those in the skilled trades in the US are 45 or older, and in some areas, close to 40% of workers are over 55. 

This week’s First in Future guest is Michael Mitchell, the Sr. Director of Trade Skills and Learning Innovation at Lowe’s Companies, who is heading up a national effort called “Generation T.” It is an effort to inspire a generation, and let tens of thousands of young people know that building, welding, wiring and machining keep America going, and pay pretty well too.

Listen to the podcast: