Skilled AF Podcast
Skilled AF Podcast
Podcast Description
Welcome to the Skilled AF Podcast, where we spotlight the trailblazers, powerhouses, and change-makers shaping the future of the skilled trades and construction industry. Hosted by Amanda Luchetti, founder of The Skilled Project, this podcast dives into raw conversations and authentic stories—unpacking the opportunities, challenges, and life-changing moments that define what it means to be "Skilled AF" while empowering the next generation of workers
The Skilled Project (https://www.theskilledproject.com/) is on a mission to inspire one million people to explore skilled trades and construction-related careers by 2028. Through storytelling, advocacy, and partnership-driven pathway creation, we’re aiming to make these careers more visible, valuable and accessible.
Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
Podcast Insights
Content Themes
The podcast covers a wide range of topics centered around skilled trades and the construction industry, including personal career journeys, mentorship, challenges in the workforce, and advocacy for women in trades. Notable episodes feature discussions about transitioning careers, like Hayley Campbell's leap into electrical work in her 30s, and Marie Patterson's initiatives to foster future leaders in construction education, emphasizing sustainability and job placement.
Welcome to the Skilled AF Podcast, where we spotlight the trailblazers, powerhouses, and change-makers shaping the future of the skilled trades and construction industry. Hosted by Amanda Luchetti, founder of The Skilled Project, this podcast dives into raw conversations and authentic stories—unpacking the opportunities, challenges, and life-changing moments that define what it means to be “Skilled AF” while empowering the next generation of workers
The Skilled Project (https://www.theskilledproject.com/) is on a mission to inspire one million people to explore skilled trades and construction-related careers by 2028. Through storytelling, advocacy, and partnership-driven pathway creation, we’re aiming to make these careers more visible, valuable and accessible.
Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
Nick Hartman always felt a deep desire to help others, but he never expected the skilled trades would be the place where that calling came to life. After dropping out of college and bouncing between jobs, a random Facebook message from a friend led him to a warehouse role at an HVAC company. That decision would quietly change the course of his life. As someone with ADHD, Nick had spent years searching for a place to channel his energy and drive. The structure, pace, and purpose of the trades gave him exactly that. Today, he’s the Chief Growth Officer at Ongaro & Sons, a fourth-generation plumbing, HVAC, and electrical company in Northern California. His job is more than growing the business, it’s about developing people and the culture of the company – a role that taps into his purpose in ways no title ever could.
In this episode, we cover:
> Nick’s Journey: How a Facebook message at age 27 led him into HVAC and changed his life
> Growing Up Fast: What it was like being one of six kids raised by a single mother, and how that shaped his sense of responsibility and drive
> ADHD as a Superpower: Nick’s experience navigating ADHD and how the trades gave him structure and purpose
> Neurodiversity in the Trades: Why hands-on careers are a powerful fit for neurodivergent individuals
> Mental Health: The unique challenges tradespeople face and how Ongaro & Sons is building a culture of support
> Investing in People: Leadership, mentorship, and creating environments where others can thrive
> Advice for the Next Gen: Especially for neurodivergent youth navigating school and career choices
—–
Guest info:
Nick Hartman, Chief Growth Officer, Ongaro & Sons
Connect with The Skilled Project:
Founder, Amanda Luchetti; ✉️: [email protected]
Subscribe to newsletter
Like the podcast? 🎧
Subscribe to the podcast
Leave a kickass review
Know someone Skilled AF? Submit a story here
Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
Disclaimer
This podcast’s information is provided for general reference and was obtained from publicly accessible sources. The Podcast Collaborative neither produces nor verifies the content, accuracy, or suitability of this podcast. Views and opinions belong solely to the podcast creators and guests.
For a complete disclaimer, please see our Full Disclaimer on the archive page. The Podcast Collaborative bears no responsibility for the podcast’s themes, language, or overall content. Listener discretion is advised. Read our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy for more details.