
The Way I Heard It with Mike Rowe
416: Nathan Walters—So You Want to be a Builder
Nov 29, 2024
Nathan Walters, an Oklahoma builder and entrepreneur, shares his journey to establishing Masa Rosa Luxury Homes. He discusses the critical shortage of skilled labor in construction and his innovative 'Build Your Future' initiative aimed at inspiring high schoolers to consider trades. The conversation touches on the emotional challenges clients face during renovations, the transformative role of AI in construction, and the importance of prioritizing quality customer service. Walters also hilariously contrasts fishing adventures with building dreams, showcasing the joys and challenges of entrepreneurship.
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Quick takeaways
- Nathan Walters addresses the critical skilled labor shortage in the building industry, highlighting its impact on construction projects in Oklahoma.
- Through the 'Build My Future' program, Walters aims to reshape perceptions of trade careers by showcasing hands-on opportunities for high school students.
Deep dives
The Challenges of Skilled Labor in Building
The discussion highlights the significant issue of skilled labor shortages in the building industry, particularly affecting luxury custom home construction in Oklahoma. Builders are facing an alarming decline in available skilled labor, which impacts not only the luxury market but also residential and commercial projects. Nathan Walters, an entrepreneur and builder, emphasizes the urgent need to attract and retain skilled workers, as the current workforce is aging without sufficient new talent entering the trades. The situation is complicated by the ongoing demand for quality construction, leading to concerns about sustainability in the industry without new skilled labor coming in.
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