Mark Hedstrom on Failing, Learning, and Leading

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57:41

In this episode of the Manufacturing Culture Podcast, Jim Mayer speaks with Mark Hedstrom, the executive director of the Skilled Careers Coalition. They discuss the importance of reshaping perceptions around skilled careers, the role of culture in organizations, and the challenges faced in building a talent pipeline for the skilled trades. Mark shares his journey from anthropology to leadership roles in various sectors, emphasizing the need for collaboration among educators, businesses, and government to inspire the next generation of skilled workers. The conversation also touches on generational trauma, the significance of leadership, and the importance of finding passion in one's career.

Takeaways

Culture is crucial for organizational success.
Intellectual curiosity drives personal and professional growth.
Destigmatizing skilled trades is essential for attracting talent.
Collaboration among stakeholders is key to solving workforce issues.
Generational trauma affects perceptions of skilled careers.
The skilled trades offer viable career paths with good pay and opportunities.
Leadership should focus on creating a culture of learning and acceptance of failure.
Engaging youth through authentic content can inspire interest in skilled careers.
The coalition aims to increase the number of students in skilled trades education.
Philanthropy should focus on significance over mere fundraising success.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Manufacturing Culture Podcast
01:49 Mark Hedstrom's Journey and Background
04:39 The Importance of Culture in Organizations
11:59 Overview of the Skilled Careers Coalition
16:33 Challenges and Rewards in Skilled Careers
21:51 De-stigmatizing Skilled Careers
28:08 Addressing Generational Trauma in Skilled Careers
30:45 Understanding the Skilled Trades Gap
33:02 The Future of Skilled Careers
35:16 Building Coalitions for Change
37:29 Lessons in Leadership
40:53 The Human Experience in Career Choices
44:58 Significance Over Success
48:45 Advice for Career Seekers