Thomas John Rowland Calls for Greater Respect for Trades and Hands-On Careers

The New Jersey-based automotive detailer urges communities to value practical work, teach trade skills early, and support young workers building careers outside the classroom

O 'FALLON, MO / ACCESS Newswire / June 26, 2025 /Thomas John Rowland, a skilled automotive detailer with a background in both early childhood education and car care, is speaking out to advocate for greater support of trades, hands-on careers, and the young people who choose them.

"Not every success story starts in an office or lecture hall," Rowland said in a recent interview titled "Thomas John Rowland: From Childcare Roots to Car Care Pro." "We need to start respecting people who work with their hands. There 's pride in doing a job right-even if it leaves you tired and covered in grease."

Rowland 's message is timely. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, over 500,000 skilled trade jobs remain unfilled due to a shrinking pipeline of trained workers. At the same time, a growing number of young adults report feeling pressure to pursue college even when it doesn 't align with their interests or goals.

From Childcare to Car Care: A Non-Traditional Path

Rowland, who grew up helping in his family 's childcare centre and later worked as an assistant teacher, didn 't take a straight path into the automotive world. His first job in the field was as a porter at a dealership. Over time, he discovered a passion for vehicle detailing and now manages complex tasks in a busy shop setting.

"I learned just as much fixing things at the childcare centre as I did in any class," he said. "That hands-on experience taught me how to show up, take responsibility, and care about the small stuff."

His transition into the trades was shaped by a belief in doing meaningful work-whatever form it takes. "Some people like to build spreadsheets. I like to bring a car back to life. Both take skill. Both deserve respect."

The Value of Learning by Doing

In his interview, Rowland stressed how early exposure to responsibility helped him build skills that now serve him daily. He also credits sports-especially competitive soccer-with teaching discipline and focus.

"I was the youngest player on the team a lot of the time," Rowland said. "You learn to work hard and keep up. That mindset stuck with me."

He believes hands-on learning should start early, and that schools, parents, and employers need to offer more opportunities to explore skilled trades.

What Communities Can Do Right Now

Rowland isn 't asking for government reform or new policies. His call to action is local and simple: respect the trades, talk about them with young people, and support those doing the work.

Here are a few ways individuals can help:

• Talk to teens about trade options. Not every student needs a 4-year degree.

• Support trade schools and apprenticeships. Volunteer, donate, or spread the word.

• Respect service workers and tradespeople. A thank-you goes a long way.

• Hire local talent. Whether it 's car detailing or home repair, choose professionals who care about their craft.

• Teach by example. Show kids how to fix things, solve problems, and work hard.

"Success doesn 't always come with a title or a corner office," Rowland said. "Sometimes, it comes with a clean car, a full day 's work, and the satisfaction of doing it right."

About Thomas John Rowland

Thomas John Rowland is an automotive detailer based in New Jersey. He grew up in a family-run childcare business, worked as an assistant teacher, and later transitioned into the automotive trade. Known for his strong work ethic, sharp eye for detail, and deep ties to family and community, Thomas is a passionate advocate for hands-on careers and the people who do them every day.

Media Contact:
Read the Interview here.

Email: thomasrowland@emaildn.com

SOURCE: Thomas John Rowland

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