Search

Home > Arc Junkies > 393. Speed Does Not Equal Skill w/ Alex McNamara
Podcast: Arc Junkies
Episode:

393. Speed Does Not Equal Skill w/ Alex McNamara
Category: Education
Duration: 01:59:56
Publish Date: 2026-01-27 09:00:00
Description:

In this weeks episode, I sit down with Alex McNamara, a trades advocate, welder, rigger, and content creator who has become one of the loudest voices pushing for skilled trades education and tool literacy.

Alex shares her unconventional path—from theater and set building to welding, rigging, and managing massive international live events, including work in Saudi Arabia. The conversation digs into why shop class disappeared, how that decision created today's skilled-labor shortage, and what individuals can do locally to help rebuild trades education.

We also discuss women in the trades, workplace culture, confidence on the jobsite, the realities of PPE and workwear design, and why being yourself actually makes you better at your craft. This is an honest, funny, and deeply important conversation about identity, work ethic, and the future of skilled labor.
Total Play: 0

Users also like

100+ Episodes
Made for Pro .. 60+     3
20+ Episodes
SmartTradesm .. 20+     1