Trade Up: Why the Future Belongs to Skilled Trades and How Career Education is Transforming the Workforce

"For years, we’ve told kids there’s only one way to succeed—go to college, take on debt, and hope it all works out. Trade Up politely calls that story into question. This book is a clear-eyed look at what happens when we stop confusing career education with skills, and credentials with competence. Jason Altmire and Riley Burr make a strong case that America’s biggest problem isn’t a lack of jobs—it’s a lack of people trained to do them. If you believe honest work matters, that skilled trades deserve respect, and that there’s more than one smart path to a good life, this book is worth your time.”

Mike Rowe — CEO, mikeroweWORKS Foundation

"America’s workforce drives our economy, but without a strong talent pool, growth stalls—and opportunity stalls with it. This new book, Trade Up, is an important addition to the national conversation on addressing the workforce shortage and equipping people with the skills they need for the jobs of tomorrow. When businesses can find and retain the right people—and when people have the skills and opportunities to put their talent to work—all of us rise.”

Suzanne P. Clark – President and CEO, U.S. Chamber of Commerce

"There is a significant workforce gap in the skilled trades, and the next generation is starting to recognize the remarkable opportunities these careers offer. Once viewed as menial labor, these jobs are now recognized as a fast track to success for anyone ready to learn through hands-on training. This book explores that shift in perception and delivers timely insights for students and workforce development stakeholders interested in career education.”

Ty Pennington – Designer, Carpenter, and Emmy-Winning Home Improvement Television Host

"This book is a timely and essential contribution to the national conversation on the workforce shortage and skills gap, one that moves beyond diagnosis to real, actionable solutions. A must-read for policymakers, educators, and employers committed to building a stronger workforce for the future through trade schools.”

Chelle Travis – Executive Director, SkillsUSA

"America is making unprecedented investments in technology and infrastructure, yet too few skilled workers are available to do the most in-demand jobs. This book examines the causes and consequences of workforce shortages and the risks they pose to our economic competitiveness. A must-read for anyone seeking thoughtful solutions to one of the nation’s most pressing challenges related to the skills gap.”

Bill Shuster – Former U.S. Congressman and Chairman of the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure

"Persistent workforce shortages in key industries, AI-driven job disruptions, and growing doubts about the value of traditional college degrees are reshaping how Americans think about careers. The authors take a comprehensive look at these converging trends, offering practical insights and innovative solutions. The book makes a persuasive case for why trade schools are the key to expanding the talent pipeline and positioning the next generation of workers for labor market success.”

Dean Heller – Former U.S. Senator and Congressman from Nevada

"At a time when workforce shortages are reshaping industries across America, the authors bring real-world experience and insight to a clear, constructive examination of why the skills gap exists and what can be done about it. This book is a serious, solutions-oriented contribution to an issue that deserves far more attention.”

Lindsay Mark Lewis – CEO, Progressive Policy Institute