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The benefits of the skilled trades
What exactly are the benefits of working in the skilled trades? Are there actual benefits to being a skilled tradesman? After all, doesn’t the stigma that those who work with their hands are somehow less intelligent have a ring … Read the rest
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Tightening your financial belt
The Budgeting Series Introduction – tightening your financial belt *NOTE: This is part 5 of a series on budgeting.* ***Updated for 2023*** If you have missed the previous articles in this series, I encourage you to read them before moving … Read the rest
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Conversations with Tradesmen – HVAC
I’m going to start a new category called “Conversations with Tradesmen” where I do primarily just that: I have conversations with tradesmen of all different crafts and discuss the pros and cons of their trade, location, work, etc. I find … Read the rest
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Headhunting – and Its Increase in the Workforce
***Updated for 2025*** I don’t recall the first time I heard the term headhunting, and perhaps you don’t either. It could be you’ve never heard the term. Either way, the practice you undoubtedly know of – and … Read the rest
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Talent vs. Tenacity – which is better?
Talent vs. Tenacity Over the years I have come across some of the most talented individuals with varying interests. Nascent talent, whether latent in an individual or at work conscientiously, is a gift many do not have. Indeed, I can … Read the rest
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The Math Myth and Other STEM Delusions – Book Review
The Book Review Series Riveting, compelling, and tantalizing are but a few of the words I would use to describe The Math Myth and Other STEM delusions. I might follow them up with ingenious, stimulating, … Read the rest
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Do we really believe what we say?
I have touted for a number of years the intelligence of many skilled trades individuals. I know some of my stories have made it into posts when I talk about the disconnect between the skilled trades and office personnel (blue … Read the rest
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The pros and cons of the skilled trades
*Updated for 2026* As an advocate for and being in the skilled trades, I certainly can attest to the pros associated therein. I sort of stumbled into it, but no matter, they have been immensely enriching … Read the rest
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College class hazing – Yea, it’s a thing
Ideas for posts originate almost anywhere and at anytime and this one’s no different. I got to thinking about all the various “general education” classes you have to take in the pursuit of a degree. You know the classes I’m … Read the rest
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America’s ultimate hazing experience: the college degree
Sometime ago, I was doing research for another article and came across a term I had never heard before: the college industrial complex. I’ll admit I was favorable to the term; after all, I have maintained for quite a number … Read the rest
