Want to start a plumbing career? Charles Goede joins host Andrew Brown to break down trade school training, union apprenticeships, and the SkillsUSA competition.
Host Andrew Brown sits down with Charles Goede , the U.S. competitor for WorldSkills Plumbing & Heating 2026, to explore how a young tradesperson rises through trade school training, excels in the SkillsUSA competition, and builds a long-term plumbing career. Charles opens up about mentors who shaped him, the reality of union apprenticeships, what it’s like to compete on a world stage, and how the skilled trades create life-changing opportunities—from travel to high-earning work to lifelong craftsmanship.
Whether you’re curious about entering the trades industry, pursuing plumbing, or navigating union vs. non-union opportunities, this episode delivers raw, real-world insight from someone who’s lived it.
Key Takeaways.
01
Trade school training opens real pathways into high-earning, meaningful careers in the skilled trades.
02
Union apprenticeships offer unmatched pay, training, and benefits, but require persistence and commitment.
03
The SkillsUSA competition builds confidence, problem-solving skills, and exposure to elite craftsmanship.
04
A successful plumbing career combines hands-on learning, mentorship, field experience, and adaptability—especially on major construction projects.
Meet Charles Goede.
Charles Goede is a rising leader in America’s skilled trades and the official U.S. competitor for WorldSkills Plumbing & Heating 2026. After launching his plumbing career through trade school training, Charles excelled in the SkillsUSA competition, winning Connecticut and placing second nationally.
A proud member of his union, he advocates strongly for union apprenticeships, hands-on education, and real-world mentorship while training full-time to compete on the world stage.
