The Value of Trade Careers: Real Talk from the Cool Talk Podcast
- Kasey Bruffy
- Mar 31
- 3 min read
In a recent episode of the Cool Talk Podcast, Brandon and Dara Brown of Browns Heating Air & Plumbing combined a family spring break story with a powerful message about the importance of skilled trades in today's workforce. This episode isn’t just about HVAC or plumbing—it’s about opening eyes to the real opportunities trade careers offer right here in Central Virginia.
Whether you’re a student unsure about college or someone thinking about a career change, this conversation delivers honest, helpful insights that may reshape how you view the trades.
A Different Kind of Spring Break: From Graceland to the Trades
Brandon and Dara kicked off the episode by recapping their recent spring break trip to Memphis and Nashville, a detour from their usual beach plans due to hurricane damage in Annamarie Island. Along the way, they:
Visited Graceland, Elvis Presley’s famous home—an unforgettable experience for the whole family.
Stopped by St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, a meaningful visit tied to their ongoing participation in the St. Jude Dream Home Project.
The trip set the stage for a deeper conversation about career paths, purpose, and the powerful impact of working in the trades.
Breaking the Stigma Around the Trades
Brandon and Dara addressed a common issue: the pressure to pursue a four-year college degree, even when it may not be the best fit. Brandon shared his personal experience—struggling in a traditional academic environment but thriving in the trades thanks to a dual enrollment program that let him earn a high school diploma and a trade certification at the same time.
“Trade careers aren’t a backup plan. They’re a real path to success,” says Brandon.
In today’s economy, the trades offer:
Job security
Strong income potential
A direct, hands-on path to building a rewarding life
Inside the Trade: What It’s Really Like
Brandon and Dara also broke down the different types of roles available in the trades—from HVAC maintenance and installation to service and diagnostics. Each type of role fits different personalities:
Prefer structure and routine? Maintenance might be your lane.
Love a fast-paced environment and solving puzzles? Service work could be your calling.
Want to focus on building and installation? There’s room for that too.
Plus, the work genuinely helps people—whether it’s fixing a broken AC unit during a heatwave or helping a family with plumbing during an emergency.
Giving Back Through the Trades
At Browns Heating Air & Plumbing, the impact goes beyond customer service. Brandon and Dara shared how their team participates in community projects like the St. Jude Dream Home, where employees volunteer their skills to support families in need.
They also talked about the long-term relationships they’ve built with clients. In trade careers, you’re not just fixing equipment—you’re becoming a trusted part of the community.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Brandon emphasized the importance of reaching young people early. Through his work on a local vocational advisory board, he’s helping shape the next generation of tradespeople. By encouraging high school students to explore trade programs and learn about real-world opportunities, Brandon and Dara hope to break outdated assumptions and inspire confidence in alternative career paths.
Career Advice and Opportunities
The episode wrapped up with a few pieces of practical advice:
Keep learning: Certifications, hands-on experience, and a commitment to your craft will open doors.
There’s no one-size-fits-all: The trades offer flexibility, variety, and the chance to grow.
Take advantage of promotions: Browns Heating Air & Plumbing is currently offering special discounts on system installations throughout April—a great opportunity for homeowners thinking about HVAC upgrades.
Final Thoughts: Trade Careers Are the Future
Brandon and Dara closed the episode with a powerful reminder: trade careers are meaningful, essential, and full of potential. With the growing demand for skilled professionals across Central Virginia and beyond, now is the time to look at the trades not as a second choice—but as a smart, fulfilling first choice.
Key Takeaways:
Trade careers offer job security, strong income, and personal fulfillment
There’s a wide variety of paths within the trades, from maintenance to diagnostics
Hands-on experience and continuous learning lead to success
The trades are essential to local communities and families
Mentoring the next generation is critical to sustaining the skilled workforce
Interested in learning more or getting involved?
Call us at 434-610-4373 Visit us at BrownsHeatingAir.com
And don’t forget to subscribe to the Cool Talk Podcast for more real conversations about HVAC, plumbing, and the people who keep Central Virginia running.