Ep. 86 – The FVCC Trades Institute with Dr. Lisa Blank

Skilled trades are changing fast, and the career opportunities are growing with them. Dr. Lisa Blank, Executive Director of Workforce Development at Flathead Valley Community College, joins us to talk about how the FVCC Trades Institute is preparing students and career changers for in-demand jobs across Northwest Montana.

We explore programs ranging from welding, electrical, plumbing, construction, and HVAC to machining, heavy equipment, and CDL training. Lisa also shares what local employers are looking for and how AI, automation, and robotics are changing the skills needed in today’s trades.

Whether you’re considering your first career, a career change, or simply want to understand where our local workforce is headed, this episode offers a practical look at the opportunities ahead.

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