I received a free copy of this book and exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Author K.A. Pierce shares the reason why more people should choose trade work as their first choice of a career in the book “The Hands That Built This.”
The Synopsis
America is running out of people who know how to build what it needs.
The Hands That Built This is a compact, urgent memoir-manifesto by K.A. Pierce—14 years as a carpenter and ironworker and nearly two decades as a construction-safety professional—that argues trades must be first-choice careers, not Plan B.
Through vivid job site scenes, program case studies, and practical policy steps, Pierce demonstrates how apprenticeships, earn-while-you-learn models, mentorship for women, and safety-first training can address labor shortages, mitigate costly failures, and provide stable, debt-free lives.
Concise, actionable, and voice-driven, this book provides parents, educators, contractors, and policymakers with a clear roadmap to rebuild the skilled trades and the communities they sustain.
The Review
This was such an insightful and engaging read from the get-go. The author writes with passion in an insight into trade work that is inspiring, and will resonate with readers greatly. The fast pacing of the book will allow readers to not only connect with the message of the book, but we’ll give it that re–readability factor that is perfect for books like this that are a constant source of both inspiration and resourcefulness.
The author balances a personal writing style that feels very conversational to the reader with both expertise and familial experience that will allow readers to feel the importance of trade work in our world. The author does a great job highlighting the shame aspect a trade work that has for too long, taken young people away from this line of work and instead of showcases, the heart, the nobility and the honor that could be found in this line of work. The book is also a great source of alternate learning for those who never felt called to higher education, but have a passion for creative yet stable work and also highlights the historical accomplishments trade work has been responsible for.
The Verdict
Well balanced, engaging, and heartfelt, Author K.A. Pierce’s “The Hands That Built This” is a must read non-fiction memoir meets inspirational guide for any young person who seek a direction in life involving trade work. The amount of knowledge and insight the author is able to fit into such a short read is astounding and readers will feel connected to the author’s story while also allowing them to see themselves in a position to pursue a career and trade work. If you haven’t yet, please grab your copy today!
Rating: 10/10
About the Author
I have several books published under various pen names across diverse genres: self-help for personal growth, historical fiction weaving tales of the past, fantasy worlds of imagination, and practical guides to growing orchids.
Each project reflects my curiosity and commitment to sharing knowledge that empowers and inspires.
However, construction is a passion of mine and has treated me well over the years. With over 34 years in the construction trade, with 14 years as a carpenter and ironworker, I transitioned into Safety in 2008. I led zero-incident sites and coached more construction workers than I can count in order to protect the crews and foster leadership. My book “The Hands That Built This: Restoring Respect and Rebuilding the Future of the Trades”reflects that passion.
Born and raised in rural Minnesota, where hardworking values shaped my early years, I’ve always been drawn to hands-on pursuits. My Dad was a carpenter, and he could build or fix anything. Life took me on a journey through Texas and then Indiana before landing in sunny Florida, each place adding layers to my story. I have worked all over the US – including Alaska and Puerto Rico- and in some interesting places as well, like Antarctica’s South Pole Station. That’s another story!
Whether building structures or stories, I believe in restoring respect for skilled hands—those that craft our world. This site is a hub for my work, insights, and connections. Explore, connect, and let’s build something meaningful together.
Cheers! Kim
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