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For years, we've told kids there's only one way to succeed-go to college, take on debt, and hope it all works out. Trade Up politely calls that story into question. This book is a clear-eyed look at what happens when we stop confusing education with skills, and credentials with competence. Jason Altmire and Riley Burr make a strong case that America's biggest problem isn't a lack of jobs-it's a lack of people trained to do them. If you believe honest work matters, that skilled trades deserve respect, and that there's more than one smart path to a good life, this book is worth your time. Mike Rowe, CEO mikeroweWORKS Foundation America's workforce drives our economy, but without a strong talent pool growth stalls-and opportunity stalls with it. This new book, Trade Up, is an important addition to the national conversation on addressing the workforce shortage and equipping people with the skills they need for the jobs of tomorrow. When businesses can find and retain the right people-and when people have the skills and opportunities to put their talent to work-all of us rise. Suzanne P. Clark, President and CEO, U.S. Chamber of Commerce There is a significant workforce gap in the skilled trades, and the next generation is starting to recognize the remarkable opportunities these careers offer. Once viewed as menial labor, these jobs are now recognized as a fast track to success for anyone ready to learn through hands-on training. This book explores that shift in perception and delivers timely insights for students and workforce development stakeholders. Ty Pennington - Designer, Carpenter, and Emmy-Winning Home Improvement Television Host This book is a timely and essential contribution to the national conversation on the workforce shortage and skills gap, one that moves beyond diagnosis to real, actionable solutions. A must-read for policymakers, educators, and employers committed to building a stronger workforce for the future. Chelle Travis - Executive Director, SkillsUSA America is making unprecedented investments in technology and infrastructure, yet too few skilled workers are available to do the most in-demand jobs. This book examines the causes and consequences of workforce shortages and the risks they pose to our economic competitiveness. A must-read for anyone seeking thoughtful solutions to one of the nation's most pressing challenges. Bill Shuster - Former U.S. Congressman and Chairman of the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure Persistent workforce shortages in key industries, AI-driven job disruptions, and growing doubts about the value of traditional college degrees are reshaping how Americans think about careers. The authors take a comprehensive look at these converging trends, offering practical insights and innovative solutions. The book makes a persuasive case for why trade schools are the key to expanding the talent pipeline and positioning the next generation of workers for labor market success. Dean Heller, former U.S. Senator and Congressman from Nevada At a time when workforce shortages are reshaping industries across America, the authors bring real-world experience and insight to a clear, constructive examination of why the skills gap exists and what can be done about it. This book is a serious, solutions-oriented contribution to an issue that deserves far more attention. Lindsay Mark Lewis - CEO, Progressive Policy Institute

Author Information

Jason Altmire is President and Chief Executive Officer of Career Education Colleges and Universities, the national association representing private postsecondary trade schools and career colleges. He is also an adjunct professor at the Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center. He has worked at senior levels in business, education and politics, and from 2007 to 2013, he served three terms in the United States House of Representatives. A prolific public speaker, writer and commentator, he previously authored the book Dead Center: How Political Polarization Divided America and What We Can Do About It. He earned a Doctorate in Business Administration from the University of Florida, a Master's in Health Administration from George Washington University, and a bachelor's degree in political science from Florida State University. Riley Burr serves as Executive Director of the CECU Research Foundation and Vice President of Policy and Research at Career Education Colleges and Universities. She previously served as lead author and contributor on several federal reports for the National Center for Education Statistics. Her research portfolio spans federal policy, institutional effectiveness, and student outcomes, with publications in areas ranging from school safety to postsecondary accountability. She holds a bachelor's degree in economics and Spanish from Furman University, and a Master of Science degree in Sustainable Development from the University of Sussex.

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