From Classroom to Job Site: Why Trades Are the Future (Mills County Roots)

In this episode of Mills County Routes, Carlene Hall sits down with Travis Waldstein, business owner, tradesman, and instructor at Iowa Western, for a real, no-BS conversation about the future of work.From teaching electrical fundamentals to running successful HVAC and plumbing businesses, Travis brings decades of hands-on experience and straight-up truth about what it takes to succeed in the trades.Inside this episode:• Why trades careers are in massive demand right now• The reality behind college degrees vs. skilled trades• What students actually need to learn (hint: it’s not just from a book)• The importance of work ethic, accountability, and showing up• Real-world lessons from running and scaling a business• Why young people should seriously consider HVAC, plumbing, and electrical careersYou’ll also hear stories from the job site, lessons from the classroom, and a few moments that prove… yeah, this isn’t your typical career talk.“I’ve got a ton of knowledge I can give… but you’ve got to start with the fundamentals.” If you’re a student, parent, or just someone wondering what career paths actually make sense today, this episode is worth your time.Air Serve Heating & Air (Council Bluffs)Waldstein PlumbingServing Mills County, Pottawattamie County, and surrounding areasNot everyone needs a 4-year degree.But everyone needs a skill.Subscribe for more stories that highlight the people, businesses, and opportunities shaping Mills County and beyond.