Full Podcast: https://lovethenorth.ca/article/251210-trades-automotive What if thousands of young people are missing out on rewarding careers simply because nobody introduced them to the opportunities available in the skilled trades? For generations, students have been encouraged to pursue college or university. But what about the students who love working with their hands, solving mechanical problems, building things or figuring out how equipment works? In this Love the North podcast, we explore why businesses across the automotive, HVAC, electrical, plumbing and other skilled trades are struggling to find qualified workers. Could part of the problem begin in our education system? Years ago, students were exposed to automotive repair, welding, woodworking, electrical work and other practical subjects. These experiences helped young people discover abilities and interests they might never have known they had. Today, are enough students getting those same opportunities? Not every teenager knows what they want to do with their life. That's why exposure matters. A student struggling in a traditional classroom might discover an incredible talent for diagnosing engines, working with electrical systems or building something from scratch. Imagine introducing students to multiple trades before they graduate, connecting them with local employers and providing hands-on opportunities to discover their strengths. It's not about choosing trades over university. It's about giving every student the opportunity to discover where they belong. The shortage of skilled workers isn't just an industry problem. It raises an important question about how we prepare our children for the future. Are we helping young people find their niche, or are we overlooking an entire generation of potential tradespeople? #LoveTheNorth #SkilledTrades #Education #AutomotiveTrades #Apprenticeships #CareerOpportunities #NorthernOntario #YouthEmployment