TradingUp
TradingUp is new podcast series produced by Journey12 in proud partnership with Carl Sandburg College. More than just a podcast, TradingUp is a front-row seat to the lived experiences of men and women who’ve chosen a path that’s too often overlooked—the skilled trades.
In each episode, we’ll shine a light on real people, telling real stories of how they’ve charted careers rooted in technical skill, resilience, and hands-on problem solving. These are not narratives of overnight success or viral fame, but of purpose forged in welding bays, machining shops, dental hygiene labs, and behind the dashboards of diesel engines—where grit, craftsmanship, and passion come together to build something lasting.
Through these conversations, we’ll explore what it means to trade up—not just in job titles or earning potential, but in personal fulfillment, community contribution, and the dignity of meaningful work. We’ll meet individuals who have discovered their calling through Sandburg’s programs and partnerships, and who now keep our communities moving forward—quietly, reliably, and often without fanfare.
At a time when the world seems increasingly tilted toward screens and abstraction, these stories remind us of something vital: that there is extraordinary value in the tangible, in the applied, and in the deeply human act of working with one’s hands. This series honors that work—and the people who do it.
TradingUp is here to challenge assumptions, celebrate possibility, and inspire a deeper appreciation for the trades and the institutions, like Sandburg, that make these journeys possible.
TradingUp
REBOOTING AT 40: How information technology careers offer second chances and first opportunities
Join host Craig Williams for an inspiring conversation with Nate Budde, a 40-year-old career changer who traded retail management for network administration, and Linda Lee, whose 24-year journey at Carl Sandburg College spans the entire digital revolution.
Discover why information technology careers are perfect for both first-time students and career changers, how Sandburg's flexible programming accommodates working adults, and why the best IT professionals often come from unexpected backgrounds. Learn about real earning potential—from $40,000 help desk positions to $55,000+ network administrator roles—and explore how hands-on internships and industry certifications create direct pathways to employment.
Nate shares his transformation from missing family time due to retail hours to building a career that offers both financial security and work-life balance. Linda reveals how 24 years of teaching technology has shown her that problem-solving skills matter more than age, and why mixing traditional students with career changers makes both groups stronger.
Whether you're troubleshooting your home WiFi or figuring out why the office printer won't work, you might already have the foundation for an IT career. This conversation explores how Sandburg's approach to technology education meets students where they are, regardless of their background or previous experience.