Machine shop students face the daunting task of learning the operation of complex three-dimensional machine tools, and welding students must develop specific motor skills in addition to understanding the complexity of material types and characteristics. The use of consumer technology by the Millennial generation of vocational students, the advances or integration of new technologies in the industrial workplace, and the available educational technology tools and techniques have not been kept in synchronization. The focus of this qualitative case study research was to observe and document how a sample of vocational machine shop and welding students perceive the usefulness of video podcasts in completing learning activities within the laboratory environment. Instructional video podcasts of machine tool and welding applications were developed specifically for selected learning activities. These podcasts were then provided to the students for use at individual workstations within the laboratory. Observations were made to identify how students used these podcasts. Focus group discussions and personal interviews were conducted to collect data on student opinions and experiences regarding the use of podcasts in the laboratory. Participants were students enrolled in beginning and advanced level machine shop and welding classes at a rural community college in eastern Arizona. A total of 43 students enrolled in study related courses elected to participate. Findings suggest that no observable generational differences existed between Millennial and older generation participants with regard to technology use in the laboratory. Results suggest that podcasts can be of assistance in observing and remembering elements of laboratory demonstrations and complex machine tool operation and setup procedures. It was concluded that both conceptual and step-by-step podcasts can benefit students depending on their individual needs. Recommendations suggest an appropriate method of holding the podcast device needs to be provided depending upon the individual type of workstation. It is recommended to further expand the study to include additional vocational disciplines thus identifying unique applications for the use of podcasts within other non-academic educational environments. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]