This special episode of the FourMan Podcast brings together shop teachers from across the country to recap the first-ever Shop Class Showdown — a friendly competition that started as a joke and turned into something much bigger.

Noah is joined by Gregg Helmich, Josh Jacobs, and Bobby Miller to talk about how teachers are building industry partnerships, bringing tools and materials into their classrooms, and creating real opportunities for students.

From trade shows like IBS, IWF, JLC, and World of Concrete, to advisory boards, playhouse competitions, social media, and direct outreach, this conversation is all about one question:

How do we get more companies connected to the next generation of builders, makers, and tradespeople?

Gregg shares how he brought in over $100,000 for his program and why gratitude matters whether the donation is $10 or $25,000. Josh talks about the power of simply asking companies for support and how student-built projects can lead directly to internships. Bobby shares how industry partnerships helped grow his program and why companies should care about what is happening inside shop classrooms.

What started as a competition turned into a bigger reminder: when industry supports shop class, students win.

Show Notes

In this special episode, we talk about:

• How the Shop Class Showdown started as a joke and became a real movement
• Why shop teachers need industry partners, not just classroom budgets
• Gregg Helmich bringing in over $100,000 in support for his program
• The importance of gratitude when building long-term partnerships
• Why tool companies should care about the first tools students use
• How social media helps shop teachers connect with brands, contractors, and other educators
• What Josh Jacobs learned from watching another teacher ask companies directly for support
• Why trade shows like IBS, JLC, IWF, and World of Concrete matter for shop teachers
• Bobby Miller’s experience building industry support in cabinetry and woodworking
• How advisory boards can grow from a few people into a powerful network of industry partners
• The Parade of Playhouses and how student projects can lead to real internships and job offers
• Why companies should see shop students as future employees, future customers, and future leaders
• How teachers can make their programs visible so businesses know how to help

Featured Guests

Gregg Helmich — Trades educator and industry partnership powerhouse
Josh Jacobs — Shop teacher helping connect students with builders through hands-on projects
Bobby Miller — Woodshop and cabinetry teacher focused on industry partnerships and student opportunity
Noah Hughes — Host of the FourMan Podcast and carpentry teacher at Caroline High School

Building Trades and Life Skills with James: From Skipping College to Running a Nonprofit and Remodeling Business

Discover James’s inspiring journey from a young kid helping his grandfather to leading successful exterior remodeling and nonprofit initiatives. Learn how practical skills, work ethic, and community service can shape a meaningful career in the trades.

In this episode:

• How James’s early experiences in the trades sparked a lifelong passion
• The importance of work ethic, punctuality, and soft skills in business success
• The role of nonprofits as a pathway for young people to gain real-world skills
• Building a successful remodeling company amidst a booming housing market
• The lessons learned from disaster relief efforts after hurricanes
• Tips for students: essential skills for thriving in trades and entrepreneurship
• The importance of budgeting, understanding profit margins, and teaching business acumen
• The value of surround yourself with great people and develop a team-oriented mindset
• How HGTV influences perceptions of construction and practical realities vs. media portrayals

Timestamps:
00:40 - Introducing James and his background in trades and community service

04:04 - How James’s grandfather influenced his entry into trades

07:15 - James’s start in disaster response and community projects

09:50 - Connecting nonprofits with trade education for youth

11:13 - Advice for students to stay engaged in high school and develop life skills

12:40 - Common pitfalls for trade business owners relating to budgeting and profit

15:24 - The origins of Fred Exteriors and its focus on exterior remodeling

17:23 - Why James chose exterior remodeling over restoration or new construction

18:01 - James’s five-year vision for his business

21:02 - Teaching soft skills and professionalism to young tradespeople

23:16 - How to present the value of construction work to clients

24:40 - Media influence of HGTV vs. reality in construction costs

26:48 - The benefits of young people acquiring skills early in life

28:35 - James’s hypothetical class: Life skills and integrity over technical skills only

Resources & Links:

• 516 Project
• Fred Exteriors

Connect with James:

• Instagram @jamesbuidshope

Additional notes:

James’s story underscores the power of hard work, community engagement, and practical skills in creating diverse career opportunities beyond traditional college paths. His insights highlight the value of soft skills, entrepreneurship, and mentorship for the next generation.

Most tradespeople struggle with managing their finances — but what if mastering money could transform your business and your life? Tony McClellan, founder of Hollywood Decks and a finance expert, reveals how understanding your numbers is the secret to longevity and growth in the construction industry. If you're tired of watching good skills go to waste because of financial mistakes, this episode is your game-changer.Discover the critical reasons why so many builders go out of business in just a few years and how a solid grasp of finance can turn that around. Tony shares why industry success isn’t just about craftsmanship—but about mastering the business side, including pricing strategies, cash flow management, and setting up the right legal protections like LLCs. We break down practical tips on how to start with simple business accounts, when to grow into LLCs, and how to protect yourself from costly liabilities.You'll also hear inspiring stories of seasoned pros who’ve navigated crises like market crashes and even COVID, using their financial knowledge to adapt and thrive. The conversation dives into how young tradespeople and students can get started in business, find mentors, and leverage social media to build powerful networks. Plus, Tony offers his top book recommendations to fast-track your learning, and honest takes on the pitfalls of some popular financial coaching.This episode isn't just for business owners—it's perfect for anyone in the trades who wants to build a lasting career without the financial stress. Whether you're just starting out or looking to scale, understanding the money game is your ticket to freedom, security, and success. Tune in now and turn your skills into a sustainable legacy—because mastering money isn’t optional, it’s essential.Tony McClellan is a seasoned finance professional turned construction industry mentor, known for helping tradespeople bridge the gap between craft and commerce and avoid the financial traps that threaten small businesses.If you're committed to building a career that lasts, this episode is your essential financial blueprint. Hit play and start redefining what success means in your trade!