Vents MagaZine Music and Entertainment Magazine
Related Articles
If you’ve followed Mike Holmes for any length of time, you know he’s passionate about the skilled trades—and he’s not afraid to speak up when something needs to change. Season 5 of the Holmes on Homes Podcast is officially underway, and Mike is diving straight into one of the biggest issues facing the construction and renovation industry today: the skilled trades shortage.
In Episode 1, “Why is There a Shortage of Skilled Trade Workers? How VR Training and Early Education Can Help Solve the Problem”, Mike is joined by his daughter Sherry Holmes—contractor, TV host, and longtime ambassador for women in the trades. They’re also joined by Frank Melecca, a home renovation teacher preparing the next generation of builders at Judith Nyman Secondary School, and Shawn Smith, Chief Operating Officer of LogicalDox, a company using Virtual Reality to revolutionize trades training. Together, they dig into why fewer young people are entering the trades and what needs to change to attract—and retain—a skilled workforce for the future.
The numbers don’t lie. Stats Canada reports that from 2016 to 2021, the number of tradespeople over 65 increased by almost 12%, while youth participation dropped by more than 12%. That’s a serious red flag for the future of the workforce.
This episode explores the root causes of the skilled shortage, from outdated stereotypes and lack of early education, to barriers in apprenticeships and access to hands-on training. But it’s not all doom and gloom—Mike and his guests also shine a light on innovative solutions that could help turn things around.
Read more about the skilled trades shortage and what we can do about it.
One of the most exciting developments? Virtual Reality. Shawn Smith breaks down how VR can transform the way young people learn skilled trades, offering a safer, more scalable, and tech-forward way to train future electricians, plumbers, framers, and more. It’s a game-changer.
The episode also gets into which trades are the most in-demand right now, and why some of the least popular ones may actually offer the biggest opportunities. It’s all about changing the narrative—and helping young people (and their parents) see that a career in the trades isn’t just viable, it’s essential.
Here are some tips and advice for getting into the skilled trades.
Mike has always believed that building it right starts with building up the right people. And if we want safe, quality construction in the future, we need to invest in the next generation of skilled workers today.
So whether you’re a parent, an educator, or just someone who cares about the future of our homes and communities, this episode is a must-listen.
Where To Listen to Mike Holmes’s Holmes on Homes Podcast
Listen to new episodes of Season 5 of the Holmes on Homes Podcast every Thursday, available on all podcast streaming platforms including Mike Holmes’ YouTube Channel as well as Apple Podcasts and Spotify.
Looking for a new podcast? The Holmes on Homes podcast isn’t just for pros—it’s for anyone who wants to build better, live healthier, and feel more confident in their home decisions. Mike Holmes brings it all—expert interviews, lessons from the jobsite, and thoughtful conversations. Each episode delivers honest insights, expert advice, and the kind of practical knowledge that empowers you to take action.
About Mike Holmes
Through popular TV shows like the groundbreaking Holmes on Homes, Mike Holmes educates homeowners about the importance of hiring qualified tradespeople and doing the job right the first time. Holmes actively promotes careers in the skilled trades, encouraging young people to pursue rewarding opportunities in construction, plumbing, electrical work, and other essential fields. His dedication to improving industry standards has made him a trusted voice in home improvement and an advocate for the skilled trades.
About Sherry Holmes
Sherry Holmes, daughter of renowned contractor Mike Holmes, is a skilled contractor and television personality. Following in her father’s footsteps, she brings her expertise in home renovation to various projects. Passionate about quality craftsmanship and helping others, Sherry contributes to making homes safer and more sustainable.
She actively supports and promotes youth and young women in the trades through organizations like Skills Canada, World Skills, and Conestoga College’s Jill of All Trades. Sherry is also an official Meagan Bebenek Foundation ambassador and spokesperson, dedicated to raising awareness and funding pediatric brain tumour research.
