And just like that, being in the blue-collar trades industry is cool again. For the first time in about three years, I saw a family down at the yard visiting Dad’s work, proud and eager to see what he does. They checked out his tractor-trailer before he headed off for the day to hit the open road.
When I saw that, it made me realize how long it’s been since I’ve seen blue-collar workers proud of their jobs. Over the past few years, it seemed like men in the trades were being overlooked. Recently, though, my own employees have seemed more empowered and confident, almost on a bit of a power trip. I’m not entirely sure what sparked this change, but I suspect it stems from shifts in national legislation that have boosted those in industrial industries.
I love being part of supporting and uplifting the trades. It’s incredibly fulfilling to watch buildings rise, roads get reconstructed, and connect with other businesses that provide critical infrastructure.
Over the last couple of years, however, it seemed like the “powers that be” were more focused on debates like who uses which bathrooms and how to explain alternative family dynamics, such as two men or two women having a baby. Once, a first selectman (essentially a town mayor) explained to me how two women could have a baby. I laughed, which offended her. When she asked why I was laughing, I explained: “Look, you do whatever you want, but everyone in this room has a mom and a dad; otherwise, they wouldn’t be here. That’s just common sense.” Sure, you can get a sperm donor, but with a good lawyer, there’s even a chance that donor might owe child support.
Meanwhile, while men were risking their lives to support the nation’s critical infrastructure, leadership seemed preoccupied with alternative priorities. After years of searching for “alternative solutions,” nothing truly viable was found. Everyone is entitled to their opinions, beliefs, and the right to pursue their happiness. But during those years, when activists pushed for gay and lesbian clubs with posters in elementary schools, the men who kept the country running didn’t forget the agendas being prioritized.
For example, a children’s book I authored faced pushback from a publisher. They wanted to remove the traditional family model on the cover, suggesting instead a gender-neutral child without a mom or dad. They proposed depicting a broken family or same-sex parents with an adopted child.
Throughout my life, I’ve studied countless business models, companies, histories, industries, and successful people. I’ve observed cycles, patterns, common sense, trends, and migrations of people influenced by political changes, economic shifts, and regulatory adjustments. What stands out most is how, during prosperous times, people often get consumed by minor issues or problems that don’t truly exist. They forget real hardships, like the 2008 recession, or the struggles others face today—be it from hurricanes, wars, or religious persecution.
What has always protected and strengthened communities in the United States is the preservation of free speech and civil rights. When these rights are infringed upon, chaos follows.
I’m happy to see that common sense is making a comeback, and the men who truly support this country are being recognized again. While others debated and argued, we kept our heads down and got the work done. From the oil well pump to the refinery, transported by rail or ship, moved to warehouses, loaded onto semi-trucks, repaired at auto shops, and supported by construction crews and electricians—this is critical infrastructure. This is the hard work that holds communities together and makes modern life possible.
To those who are no longer here, we carry your souls with us. Thank you for the wisdom you shared during your time. To those still here, stay safe, and may Godspeed be with you.
Kasdyn Click
