Summary

In this episode of the Guiding Voice podcast, manufacturing industry leader Terry Iverson challenges conventional thinking about education and career paths, highlighting the critical gap between what young people aspire to and what the job market actually offers. He explores how mentorship—particularly reverse mentoring—is transforming workplaces by bridging generational divides, with younger employees teaching older professionals about technology while gaining invaluable industry wisdom in return. The conversation confronts a stark reality: only one in five American teens consider skilled trades as a viable career option, despite apprenticeship programs offering equal or greater earning potential than entry-level college positions, without the burden of student debt. Terry emphasizes that parents and educators must reframe the narrative around career success, recognizing that the traditional college path is not the only route forward, and highlighting how women now comprise 30% of advanced manufacturing positions—a testament to the inclusivity and opportunity in skilled trades. Through personal stories and hard data, he makes a compelling case for tailored educational journeys and the importance of understanding return on education (ROE) alongside understanding individual strengths.

Key Takeaways

Misconceptions & Reality:

Only one in five American teens consider skilled trades as a viable career option
Many young people are not using their college degrees in their careers
The traditional college path is not the only route to success
You haven't failed your child if they don't follow the conventional path

Mentorship & Generational Impact:

Mentorship is fundamentally a two-way street
Reverse mentoring is a growing practice in Fortune 500 companies
Young people offer valuable technological insights to older generations
Younger generations are actively mentoring older professionals in the workforce

Financial & Career Benefits:

Apprenticeship programs can pay as well as or more than entry-level college jobs
Apprenticeships allow individuals to avoid significant student debt
Return on Education (ROE) is as important as the educational choice itself
Manufacturing offers exciting, overlooked career opportunities

Workforce Diversity & Inclusion:

Women now comprise 30% of advanced manufacturing positions in the US
Skilled trades are increasingly inclusive and diverse
The integration of technology in skilled trades is essential for future growth

Practical Guidance for Parents & Youth:

Each child's educational path should be tailored to their individual needs and strengths
Apprenticeships combined with internships enhance real-world career readiness
Parents should remain open to diverse educational and career options
It's never too late to pivot and adapt in one's career journey

Why This Matters

This episode reframes a critical societal conversation: the belief that college is the only measure of success has left millions of young people underemployed, over-indebted, and disconnected from thriving industries desperate for talent. Terry Iverson's message is both liberating and urgent—for parents worried they've "failed" their child, for young people unsure if the traditional path is right for them, and for an industry racing to fill positions with purpose-driven professionals.