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Published on:

21st Aug 2024

Gamifying Skilled Trades: Ruchir Shah on Engaging Training Solutions and Industry Challenges

Today's episode we explore dynamic training solutions, the future of VR in trades, the importance of mentorship, and the emerging app, Skillcat, as a revolutionary tool for career growth.

In this episode, we're joined by Ruchir Shah, an industry expert dedicated to making technical training more accessible and engaging. Ruchir shares innovative strategies to keep trainees motivated, including gamification, live events, and competitive leaderboards. We discuss how his app continuously evolves with the latest technologies and accredits through strong connections with industry bodies.

I'll share my first-hand experience with VR technology, and we'll explore its potential in trade training. We'll also tackle the pressing issue of the skilled trades shortage, the importance of mentorship, and how apps like Skillcat can be game-changers in providing affordable, flexible training solutions.

From the essential role of hands-on experience to promoting a diverse and inclusive workforce, this episode is packed with insights on transforming how we approach skilled trades education. Stay tuned as we unravel the complexities of modern trade training and the future for aspiring tradespeople.

Guest Bio

Ruchir Shah recognized the significant barriers many adults face when pursuing trade school education, especially the high costs and the need to leave jobs and families for full-time study. This realization led him to establish SkillCat, an innovative platform designed to create accessible pathways into skilled trades. With a focus on affordability and flexibility, Ruchir's initiative aimed to help individuals transition into new careers without the financial and time constraints traditionally associated with trade schools. His work has opened doors for many, providing new opportunities for those seeking to improve their lives through skill develop.

Ruchir social media:

Timestamped overview

00:00 Exploring trade careers through social media resources.

05:31 Skill Cut app: Interactive, gamified trade training.

07:59 App offers gamification, live events, expert coaching.

10:00 Trade schools struggle to keep up with change.

13:30 Make trades training accessible, especially on mobile.

19:30 Skillcat helps retrain and place laid-off workers.

20:25 Diverse users breaking into non-traditional trades.

26:41 New businesses need mentorship and support.

27:37 Support and mentorship are crucial in trades

What's Inside This Episode?

Gamified Learning & Live Training:**

Ruchir Shah discusses innovative strategies like integrating gamification, live events, and leaderboards to keep trainees motivated and engaged. Discover how these techniques are transforming the learning experience!

Staying Current with Tech Advances:

Learn about the app's continuous efforts to stay updated with the latest technologies through a dedicated content team, user feedback, and collaborations with accreditation bodies and manufacturers.

The Future of VR in Trades:

Andrew Brown shares his experiences with VR technology and explores the potential of incorporating VR into trade training. Find out why Rachir believes VR isn't practical yet due to accessibility and the hands-on nature of the trades.

Preparing for Real-World Work:

The duo discusses whether the app's training segments are adequate preparation for real-world tasks, with a particular focus on the electrical trade. Hear Andrew’s personal HVAC experience that underscores the growing reliance on skilled professionals.

Addressing the Skilled Trades Shortage:

Ruchir emphasizes the critical shortage of technically skilled individuals and advocates for accessible training solutions to help fill the gap. He also highlights the importance of mentorship for new hires.

Promoting DIY Repairs:

Both speakers encourage individuals to tackle basic repairs themselves and promote the Skillcat app as a valuable resource for troubleshooting and saving money.

Affordable Training Options*

Skillcat provides a flexible, affordable alternative to traditional trade schools for just $10 a month. It offers interactive and gamified training to equip users with the core competencies needed for their chosen trade.

Supporting Underrepresented Groups:

Discover how Skillcat is attracting a diverse group of users, including women, minorities, and older individuals seeking to reskill, by providing a low-pressure way to explore the trades.

Popular Trades on the Platform:

Ruchir shares that HVAC remains the most popular trade on the platform, driven by high salaries and demand.

Building a Portfolio & Job Placement:

Learn how the app helps users document their skills and tasks, creating a portfolio that aids in job placement—especially valuable for those with limited hands-on experience.

gamification, training app, live events, leaderboards, technology updates, VR technology, hands-on training, electrical trade, HVAC issues, homeowner technical knowledge, skilled professionals, technical skills shortage, training solutions, troubleshooting, self-repair, Skillcat app, mentorship, skilled trades advocacy, trade school costs, flexible training, online resources, career exploration, interactive training, gamified learning, certification, job placement, reskilling, women in trades, minorities in trades, HVAC trade, high salaries in trades

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About the Podcast

The Lost Art Of the Skilled Trades




Welcome to The Lost Art of the Skilled Trades, the ultimate podcast dedicated to celebrating and exploring the world of skilled trades. Hosted by Andrew Brown, a passionate advocate for the trades industry and co-founder of Toolfetch, this podcast is your go-to source for knowledge, inspiration, and practical advice. Andrew brings a unique perspective shaped by years of hands-on experience, entrepreneurial success, and a deep commitment to elevating the trades.





Dive into the fascinating and ever-evolving world of skilled trades, where creativity, problem-solving, and dedication come together to build the world around us. From carpentry and HVAC systems to electricians, plumbers, millwrights, and beyond, every episode uncovers the grit, determination, and artistry that define the people behind these essential professions.



Andrew’s journey began with a life-changing moment on September 11, 2001, when he worked alongside tradespeople, first responders, and community helpers at Ground Zero. This experience inspired him to dedicate his life to advocating for the unsung heroes of the trades. Through his company Toolfetch, Andrew has helped provide tools, equipment, and resources to industry professionals worldwide. Now, through this podcast, he continues his mission to spotlight the craftsmanship, hard work, and dedication of tradespeople everywhere.




Each episode features in-depth interviews with industry experts, seasoned professionals, and rising stars in the trades. From contractors and electricians to HVAC specialists, plumbers, carpenters, and more, listeners will gain insider knowledge about the skills, tools, and strategies needed to thrive in these essential fields. Andrew also speaks with educators, advocates, and business leaders who are working to inspire the next generation of tradespeople, offering a fresh perspective on the value and opportunities within the trades.




At its core, The Lost Art of the Skilled Trades is more than just a podcast — it’s a celebration of a culture built on pride in craftsmanship and an unwavering commitment to excellence. In a time when traditional career paths are overemphasized, this podcast shines a light on an alternative: rewarding careers in skilled trades that offer creativity, financial stability, and the satisfaction of building something tangible.




Whether you’re a seasoned trades professional, an aspiring craftsman, or simply curious about the industry, this podcast is your ultimate guide to the untold stories and secrets of success in trades like refrigeration, building, plumbing, and construction. Join Andrew Brown as he celebrates the artistry, resilience, and innovation of the skilled trades — and inspires a new generation to pick up the tools that keep our world running.




About Andrew Brown

Andrew Brown is a fervent advocate for the skilled trades and is dedicated to addressing and then fixing the trades shortage gap. Through platforms such as social media, podcasts, and live events, he tirelessly promotes the benefits of the trades to students, parents, and educators. For over 23 years Andrew along with his co-founder has built one of the country’s largest on-line tools and equipment eCommerce companies - Toolfetch - focused specifically on the Industrial & Construction Supply Industry.




Follow Andrew Brown

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Toolfetch

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-brown-b1736a5/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@andrew.l.brown

Website: https://www.toolfetch.com




About your host

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Andrew Brown