Empowering Young Men Through Trades: Michael Rounds on the Mission of Williamson College of the Trades

Michael Rounds, president of Williamson College of the Trades, discusses the school's mission to empower young men from tough backgrounds with technical skills, discipline, and moral values for successful careers.

Today we dive into a fascinating conversation with Michael Rounds, president of Williamson College of the Trades. Founded in 1888 by philanthropist Isaiah Vansan Williamson, this unique institution offers a fully funded residential education focused on technical skills and personal development for young men from challenging backgrounds. Michael, a former US Army serviceman, sheds light on the college's military-like structure, discipline, and its mission to instill confidence, brotherhood, and a bright future for its students.

We'll explore how Williamson's rigorous training transforms students, the demand for its limited spots, and the impressive success stories of its graduates. We'll also discuss the importance of promoting trade and technical education, the college's hands-on, values-based approach, and how it stays current with industry technology. Whether you're interested in education reform or the skilled trades, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration. Stay tuned as we uncover the lost art of skilled trades with Williamson College of the Trades.

Speakers Bio

Michael Rounds has dedicated his career to transforming the lives of young people who often feel overlooked and undervalued in traditional educational environments. In high school, many students don't stand out as star athletes or top-tier scholars, leaving them to graduate without confidence or clear future prospects. Michael recognized this gap and saw an opportunity to inspire and equip these students by valuing their ability to work with their hands. By creating programs that emphasize practical skills and real-world applications, he has ignited a spark in countless youths. Through his efforts, these young individuals not only gain confidence but also see a path to a rewarding career and a brighter future. His work is a testament to the powerful impact of recognizing and nurturing the unique talents of every student.

Contact info for Michael:

• Website: https://williamson.edu/about/letter-from-the-president/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-rounds-63907a21/

Time Stamp overview

• 00:00 Isaiah Williamson founded Steeda Trust for orphans.
• 03:07 Williamson College of the Trades: 220-acre campus, trade programs.
• 09:35 Impressive student discipline and respect on campus.
• 13:09 Supporting young men in poverty with education.
• 14:41 Many students benefit from trade-focused education.
• 18:19 Companies use stickers to identify skilled workers.
• 22:51 Interest in carpentry varies; financial need challenging.
• 24:48 Lunch, leadership training, and wrap up.
• 29:40 Single-sex environment helpful for building confidence.
• 33:13 Williamson alumni support despite sons not attending.
• 37:03 Valuing hands-on skills sparks confidence in kids.
• 40:36 Achieving tangible results through skilled work is valuable.
• 41:29 Advisory council ensures program relevance and innovation.
• 45:42 Students showcase pride in self-designed projects.
• 49:33 Trade skills coupled with education lead success.
• 51:28 Visit local school with guaranteed job offers.

The key takeaways from Episode 18

1. Mission and Impact:

- Williamson College of the Trades provides education and technical skills to young men from challenging backgrounds, fulfilling a mission of transforming lives through trades education, character development, and discipline.

2. Historical Background:

- Founded in 1888 by philanthropist Isaiah Vansan Williamson, the college emphasizes moral and religious development, exercise, and offers a fully funded residential junior college experience.

3. Leadership and Structure:

- Under Michael Rounds, a former US Army officer, the college maintains a military-like structure focusing on accountability and discipline, which significantly contributes to the students' personal and professional growth.

4. High Demand and Admissions:

- The college faces high demand, with over 600 applicants vying for 124 freshman spots. Admissions are based on need, with most students coming from low-income backgrounds. The institution plans to expand to accommodate up to 200 freshmen.

5. Educational Focus and Programs:

- The institution offers programs in carpentry, electrical, and plans to add plumbing and HVAC. Education is hands-on with an emphasis on precision, quality, and character development.

6. Successful Outcomes:

- Williamson graduates achieve significant success, often becoming foremen, starting businesses, or pursuing higher education. The college boasts high job placement rates and impressive starting salaries for graduates.

7. Confidence and Brotherhood:

- The disciplined environment fosters confidence and a sense of achievement among students. The college also emphasizes a strong sense of brotherhood and support among the student body.

8. Personalized Education and Support:

- The college provides a unique, personalized education experience with dorm managers, supports students who may not have other places to go on weekends, and maintains a strong military presence among staff and faculty.

9. Connection to Industry:

- The college stays current with industry technology through advisory councils and equips students with advanced tools, making graduates highly desirable hires. Career fairs and job opportunities are abundant for students.

10. Value of Trades Education:

- The episode reaffirms the value of trade and technical education as viable and rewarding career paths. It emphasizes the importance of career counselors recognizing trades as valuable options, rather than defaulting to traditional college education.

11. Community and Visitor Engagement:

- Both Rounds and Brown invite listeners to visit the college, stressing the impact of seeing the education model firsthand. The college aims to inspire similar models in other communities.

12. Future Aspirations:

- The college aims to build additional dorms and classrooms to support its growth, contingent on fundraising efforts, and seeks to continue providing comprehensive, value-based education to young men in need.