Skilled Trades and Mike Holmes’ Legacy

The shortage of skilled tradespeople is causing delays in construction projects and increasing costs. With a significant portion of the workforce nearing retirement, there aren't enough trained professionals to meet the current demand, affecting infrastructure development nationwide. ​

Mike Holmes, contractor and TV host on HGTV, sat down with NEST CEO Rob Almond to discuss challenges in the skilled trades industry. This in-depth discussion on the state of the trades industry is part of the Holmes podcast. Also part of this conversation is little known facts about Mike Holmes.

Listen to Season 5, Episode 10 of the Holmes on Homes Podcast with Mike Holmes, “Closing The Skilled Trades Gap: Mike Holmes and Rob Almond, NEST CEO, Talk Legacy and Industry Challenges”, launching June 19 on Spotify and Apple Podcasts, or watch the full episode on YouTube.

NEST is the pioneer of the Integrated Facilities Management (IFM) industry. Since 1994, we’ve embarked on a journey with our clients to bring true cost savings with industry-leading technology and operational excellence—all while maintaining your brand image.

Mike Holmes has been an advocate for the skilled trades since the start of his construction career. Encouraging youth to enter the skilled trades has been a true passion of his. Drawing from over four decades in the industry, he emphasizes that the crisis stems from a combination of factors, including the decline of shop classes in schools and societal stigma surrounding manual labour.

Holmes points out that many parents discourage their children from pursuing trades, often viewing them as less prestigious compared to academic careers.

Mike Holmes has published several articles on this topic. You can browse the Make It Right website for more content on the skilled trades.

Listen to Season 5, Episode 10 of the Holmes on Homes Podcast with Mike Holmes, “Closing The Skilled Trades Gap: Mike Holmes and Rob Almond, NEST CEO, Talk Legacy and Industry Challenges”, launching June 19 on Spotify and Apple Podcasts, or watch the full episode on YouTube.

About Mike Holmes’ Podcast:

Whether you’re a professional contractor, first-time homebuyer, a skilled trades advocate, or planning a major renovation, the Holmes on Homes Podcast offers the knowledge you need to build safer, healthier homes and protect your biggest investment.

The fifth season of Holmes on Homes podcast is available on all streaming platforms, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, and YouTube, wherever you listen you will find it.

About Mike Holmes

Mike Holmes is a renowned contractor, TV personality, and passionate advocate for the skilled trades. He believes anyone working in the trades—regardless of age or gender—is a hero, recognizing the hard work, dedication, and resilience the industry demands.