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
SANDBURG IS AT THE HEART OF THE TRADES: Building futures, breaking barriers, and meeting students where they are
Join host Craig Williams for an inspiring conversation with Ellen Burns, Dean of Career and Technical Education, and Jessa Morgan, Trades Program Advocate at Carl Sandburg College. Together, these two dynamic leaders are revolutionizing how students discover and pursue careers in the skilled trades.
Discover how Sandburg's "Goldilocks approach"—not too big, not too small, but just right—creates an ecosystem where students thrive through hands-on learning, strong industry partnerships, and innovative technology like VR career exploration. Learn about hidden gem programs like industrial maintenance, where 19-year-olds can earn $70,000+ annually, and medical office administration that offers remote work opportunities.
Ellen and Jessa share candid insights about leading in traditionally male-dominated fields, how the pandemic unexpectedly enhanced CTE programming, and why their approach of "making it feel like home" is producing remarkable results. From state-of-the-art facilities that rival professional workplaces to the power of eating lunch together in a shared student lounge, this conversation reveals the human side of technical education.
Whether you're a student exploring career options, a parent wondering about alternatives to traditional four-year degrees, or someone considering a career change at any age, this episode demonstrates why the skilled trades represent opportunity, security, and fulfillment in today's economy.