Dear reader, let me share with you a perspective that I believe wholeheartedly: the vast majority of American families are doers, not moaners. It is in our blood, passed down through generations, to take pride in creative problem-solving and get the job done. In my own family, we come from a long line of doers, a lineage of individuals who are biased for action and never shy away from rolling up their sleeves.
Growing up, moaning was not an option in our household. Rather, we were taught to embrace challenges and find ways to overcome them. And it is this spirit that I have seen reflected in countless families across this nation. Tens of millions of people wake up every day, ready to build, create, and get their hands dirty in pursuit of their dreams.
Throughout my career in technology and management consulting, I had the privilege of working with exceptional individuals and incredible minds. Together, we tackled enormous challenges, leveraging top-of-the-line technology solutions. However, amidst all the innovative strategies and cutting-edge tools at our disposal, there was one issue that remained unresolved: the shortage of skilled labor.
No matter how skilled the consultants or advanced the technology, it cannot replace the expertise and talent of skilled workers. This shortage poses a significant barrier to progress and growth in many industries, hindering the ability of businesses to thrive and innovate.
Supporting these perspectives, my esteemed consulting cousins from McKinsey recently published a great podcast that I encourage you all to check out. https://omny.fm/shows/mckinsey-talks-talent/workers-wanted-how-to-fill-the-skilled-trade-short
The great rethink about what constitutes a quality education, a successful career, a notable impact, is well underway across all demographics in this country. It's not just Gen Z that is opening up skills-based renaissance. Look at all the older Americans that are choosing to work in skilled trades because the help of automation technologies making physical labor less taxing. Look at the mid-career managers, stuck in rut that are taking classes to chase their passions to build and create something new. Each day, there are conversations around millions of kitchen tables about alternatives to simply going to college because that's what one does to be succesful.
But here's where the opportunity lies - in encouraging and supporting the next generation of doers. We must invest in career and technical education, inspiring young minds to pursue careers in skilled labor. By nurturing a passion for craftsmanship and providing the necessary resources, we can bridge the gap between aspiration and skill, paving the way for a brighter future.
To all the doers out there, I urge you to continue doing what you do best. Let your ingenuity and determination shine as you build, create, and innovate. And to those who have yet to find their calling, consider the rewarding path of skills-based careers. Embrace the opportunity to learn and master a trade, for there is immense pride in seeing the tangible results of your hard work.
Together, as a nation of doers, we can overcome the challenges that lie ahead. Let us rise above the shortage of skilled labor and build a future where creativity, problem-solving, and hard work are celebrated. The time for action is now, and I have no doubt that our collective efforts will shape a prosperous and thriving America.
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