A skilled trades career is more than just working with your hands; it’s a path of growth, creativity and long-term opportunity.
Christina Holwerda didn’t grow up knowing she’d coach mechanics and help design truck trailers. However, her passion for hands-on problem solving, technical work and people found the perfect outlet in a career in skilled trades. Today, she serves as a skilled trades coach in the rolling fleet department at PADNOS -- a role that didn’t come to her overnight.
Her journey, like many in the trades, was shaped by curiosity, mentorship, continuous learning and a belief that purpose matters just as much as skill.
PADNOS -- A Michigan company with locations throughout the state -- is an industrial recycler that helps manufacturers, automotive suppliers and other businesses turn waste into valuable raw materials.
Holwerda trains and manages team members who keep PADNOS’ fleet of trucks and trailers running safely and efficiently.
“I was drawn to PADNOS because of its people and its values,” she said. “I knew a few people on the maintenance team here and had enjoyed working with PADNOS on a couple of small projects, so it was an easy decision to join the team.”
Holwerda’s journey from entry-level technician to expert hasn’t been linear, but it has been deeply rewarding. She noted that the company’s values align with her personal values.
“We’re dedicated to doing good in the communities we operate in, and our commitment to innovation was an important -- and rare, for a woman in the industry -- opportunity for me to bring my ideas to the table and be heard.”
Starting where you are
One of the biggest myths about skilled trades careers is that you need formal training before beginning.
For Holwerda, her entry point into skilled trades was made easier by the support of others and a welcoming culture that prioritized learning. While some enter the trades through traditional technical school pathways, she emphasized that curiosity, work ethic and safety-first thinking are often more important than prior experience.
“We welcome people with education or experience, but we’re also open to those new to the field, even if they haven’t attended trade school,” she said. “Many of our most successful team members started in entry-level roles and advanced through internal training programs. We want to share the knowledge we’ve learned. No trade secrets here; the rising tide lifts all ships.”
This kind of learning by doing is a cornerstone of trade work. Whether it’s mechanical work, welding, electrical systems or heavy equipment, the variety of hands-on experiences allows workers to build real-world expertise and confidence over time.
Learning as you go
Training is a critical part of Holwerda’s story and a major factor in what allows new workers to grow into skilled professionals. At PADNOS, on-the-job learning is supported through a formal skilled trades apprenticeship program. Participants are paid while they train across various disciplines, including electrical, mechanical, welding and fabrication.
“It’s a paid program that results in certification and a guaranteed job at PADNOS,” Holwerda explained. “Because the training happens in real work environments, people not only build technical knowledge, but they gain confidence, build relationships and get a sense of how their role supports our larger mission. It’s the foundation for a lifelong career.”
Even outside formal programs, continuous learning is part of the job. In her department, Holwerda has developed her own form of support: technical guides and mentorship for new hires. Whether someone comes from a general automotive background or has never worked with hydraulics, she ensures that no one is left to figure things out alone.
“Our goal is that the written content and mentors will help them feel supported as they learn on the job.”
Balancing education and work
One key benefit of a career in the trades is the ability to earn while you learn. Many employers support employees in pursuing additional training or college degrees while continuing to work.
A career in the trades isn’t static. As Holwerda proves, technical knowledge can evolve into leadership, mentorship and even formal education. She completed her bachelor’s degree in business while working full-time, supported by her employer.
“In addition to the apprenticeship program, if a team member wants to pursue a certificate or degree, we will assist with tuition costs, provide the flexibility needed and help them find ways to apply what they’re learning in school to what they’re doing here at PADNOS,” she said.
Her experience echoes what many trade workers discover along the way: the trades are not a dead-end job; they are a springboard. That kind of investment in education -- not just formal degrees, but certifications and trade-specific skills -- pays off in more than just promotions. It helps workers feel valued and gives them a vision for where their careers can go next.
More than a job: A future
What sets trades careers apart isn’t just the technical work; it’s the sense of pride and purpose that comes from building, fixing and improving something real. The trades also come with practical benefits: good pay, job stability and work that’s always in demand.
“Trade jobs are the backbone of industry. They’re hands-on, problem-solving roles that can’t be outsourced,” Holwerda said. “At PADNOS, we are always looking for a way to do things better, and we see tradespeople as leaders. If you’re willing to dig in and bring your skills and ideas to the table, we’re happy to have you.”
Skilled tradespeople don’t just keep machines running; they bring ideas to life. Holwerda proudly pointed to one moment that reminds her of why she does what she does: “We build our own high-side trailers. My team collaborates with the engineering team from design to deployment, and it makes me so proud to see the trucks I helped design rolling down I-96 as a testament to our ability to work together.”
A future worth building
Holwerda often hears from apprentices and team members who say their work feels meaningful.
“We hear consistently that people feel supported, challenged and proud of what they’re learning,” she said. “One recent graduate of our program told me, ‘It’s the first time I’ve felt like I’m building a future, not just clocking in for a job.’ And a woman in my department earned her degree at Ferris State University while working here and has raved about the flexibility we offer and the support she received from management and her team members.”
So, what would Holwerda tell someone considering a trade career?
“There’s a sense of purpose here. We’re not just fixing machines; we’re helping build a more sustainable future. And we’re doing it with people who care about each other and take pride in their work.”
While no two trades careers are the same, they often share a common arc: learn, grow, specialize and lead. For those who stick with it, the journey from being an apprentice to an expert is as real and rewarding as the work itself.
To learn more about trade work at PADNOS, click or tap here.