O’Fallon, MO – June 23, 2025 – Thomas John Rowland, a New Jersey-based automotive detailer with a unique background in childcare and trades, is encouraging families, educators, and young adults to rethink the path to a successful career. Drawing on his own journey—outlined in the recent interview “In Conversation with Thomas John Rowland: From Childcare to Car Care”—Rowland is speaking up for the value of hands-on learning and skilled trades.
“I didn’t get where I am by sitting in a classroom all day,” Rowland said. “I learned responsibility for fixing things at my family’s childcare centre. I learned to focus on the soccer field. And I built a career by showing up and getting the job done.”
Rowland’s early work in his family’s childcare business taught him how to care for others, manage tasks, and pay attention to detail. He later transitioned into the automotive industry, where he now works as a professional detailer. His story reflects a growing recognition: there are many valid paths to career success, and practical skills are more important than ever.
The Skills Gap Is Real—and Growing
According to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, more than 50% of trade positions in the U.S. are currently unfilled. At the same time, high schools continue to steer students toward college, often overlooking trades that offer long-term growth and stability.
“There’s this idea that trades are a backup plan,” said Rowland. “That’s just wrong. I know people who build homes, fix cars, keep towns running—and they’re proud of what they do. They should be.”
Rowland believes the disconnect starts early. “Kids need to be shown that real work matters,” he said. “Not just talked at—but given tools, chances to try things, and people who take the time to teach.”
Why Early Exposure to Trades Matters
Rowland’s own life is a case study in the power of early exposure to real work. As a teen, he helped maintain classrooms, fix broken fixtures, and later worked directly with children as an assistant teacher. These weren’t just chores—they were lessons.
“Fixing a sink or wiping down toys may not sound like much, but it taught me how to take pride in the small things,” he said. “Now, when I’m detailing a car, that same mindset kicks in. Every detail counts.”
He also points to sport as a key influence, having played competitive soccer under his father’s coaching. “Being the youngest on the team taught me how to keep up and take direction. That transfers directly to how I work today.”
Call to Action: What Individuals Can Do
Rowland’s message isn’t aimed at institutions—it’s aimed at individuals. He wants parents, teachers, and neighbours to start showing respect for manual work and encouraging young people to explore trade options.
Here are five things Rowland recommends everyone do:
Talk about trades as first-choice careers, not last resorts.
Give young people tools and small tasks early. Let them fix, clean, build, or maintain.
Support trade schools and apprenticeship programmes.
Acknowledge and respect skilled workers.
Model work ethic at home and in the community.
“Kids don’t need a lecture,” Rowland said. “They need someone to hand them a wrench and say, ‘Let’s fix this together.’ That’s where confidence starts.”
About Thomas John Rowland
Thomas John Rowland is an experienced automotive detailer with a background in childcare, sports, and community service. Raised in a family-run childcare centre and trained on the job through hands-on roles, he brings a unique perspective to his work and advocates for practical career paths, early responsibility, and the importance of showing up every day with purpose.
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