In this impactful episode of The DooDoo Diva’s Smells Like Money Podcast, host Suzan Chin-Taylor sits down with industry experts Howard Meyers (Executive VP, ABEL RECON), Ryan Montijo (Co-Owner, Ellison-Mills), and Shane Harris (VP Operations, East Coast Infrastructure) to tackle one of the biggest challenges facing the wastewater and infrastructure industries today: the skilled labor shortage.
Recorded live at the Reline America Annual Conference, this discussion dives into the strategies and innovative approaches companies are using to attract, train, and retain talent in blue-collar trades. The conversation highlights several key points that industry professionals won’t want to miss:
Addressing the Skilled Labor Shortage: The guests discuss the stigma surrounding trade work, where college degrees are often prioritized over skilled trades, even though these careers offer stability and high earning potential. They emphasize the need to shift societal perceptions, promoting the value of trade work as an essential, rewarding career path.
Engaging Youth and Building Awareness: Recruiting young talent is crucial for the industry’s future. Shane Harris shares how East Coast Infrastructure is engaging students through hands-on career days and technology demonstrations, like using robotic cutters, to show young people that trades today involve advanced, exciting technology.
Technology in Skilled Trades: As the industry becomes more tech-centered, integrating digital tools and robotics is essential for appealing to a tech-savvy generation. Ryan Montijo explains how using advanced technology in day-to-day operations can align with younger workers’ digital skills and make these roles more attractive.
Career Advancement and Mentorship: Structured career paths and mentorship programs are critical for retaining workers. Panelists emphasize the importance of offering certifications, leadership development, and recognition to foster long-term loyalty and professional satisfaction among employees.
Supporting Work-Life Balance: Recognizing the demands on workers who often travel, companies are implementing policies to support work-life balance, such as paid family events, to help employees feel valued and supported.
