Every summer, millions of skilled trades professionals work in dangerous heat across Arizona, Texas, Florida, and the southern United States.

But what keeps construction workers, welders, electricians, HVAC technicians, and laborers safe when temperatures climb above 110°F?

In this episode of Skilled Nation, Jimmy Rhoades sits down with Mike Marden, owner of WDS Integrated Design Build, to discuss the realities of working in extreme heat after more than three decades in the construction industry.

They explore:

• How extreme heat impacts construction workers and job sites

• Heat exhaustion, hydration, and recognizing warning signs

• Why safety culture in the trades has changed

• The role of PPE, cooling apparel, and modern heat protection

• How leadership creates safer job sites

• Why prefabrication and new technology are reducing heat exposure

• What every new tradesperson should know before working outdoors

Whether you're considering a career in construction, welding, electrical, HVAC, or another skilled trade, this episode offers practical advice that could help you stay safe and build a long, successful career.

Skilled Nation is sponsored by Tulsa Welding School and celebrates the people, careers, and opportunities shaping America's skilled workforce.

Subscribe for more conversations with industry leaders, skilled trades professionals, and workforce experts.

To learn more about WDS Integrated Design Build head to https://wds.build/architect-contractor or @wdsdesignbuild

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