We’ve been told college is the only way to a successful career. There appears, however, to be a trend toward trade schools. One article tells us Gen Z is favoring trade schools over college.

Main point: “…over the years there has been a shift — with skilled trade making a comeback, especially among members of Generation Z.”

More about it:

• “…the crushing debt of college is becoming a barrier in and of itself.”
• “More than half of Gen Zers say it’s possible to get a well-paying job with only a high school diploma, provided one acquires other skills.”
• “With the use of artificial intelligence on the rise, many Gen Zers see manual labor as less vulnerable to the emerging technology than white-collar alternatives.”
• “…increasing salaries and new technologies in fields such as welding, plumbing and machine tooling are giving trade professions a face-lift, making them more appealing to the younger crowd.”

Why it matters to young people:

• Career opportunities: The skilled trades offer promising career paths with high demand, job security, and good pay. Many vocational careers have median annual salaries exceeding $59,000, with some fields like air traffic control and radiation therapy offering even higher wages.
• Lower education costs: Trade schools typically cost less than traditional colleges, resulting in significantly lower student debt. On average, trade school students accrue under $10,000 in debt, compared to $28,950 for college students.
• Faster entry into the workforce: Vocational programs often take less time to complete than four-year degrees, allowing students to start their careers sooner.
• Hands-on learning: Trade schools offer practical, skills-based training that appeals to those who prefer hands-on learning over traditional academic settings.
• Technological advancements: Many trades now incorporate advanced technology, making them more appealing to tech-savvy Gen Z workers.
• Entrepreneurial potential: Some skilled trades offer opportunities for self-employment and business ownership.

What to do about it:

• Explore trade options: Research various vocational fields and their career prospects.
• Consider personal interests and aptitudes: Assess whether hands-on work aligns with individual strengths and preferences.
• Evaluate financial implications: Compare the costs and potential returns of trade school versus traditional college.
• Seek hands-on experience: Look for internships or apprenticeships in trades of interest.
• Develop soft skills: Focus on improving communication, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities, which are valuable in both trade and traditional careers.
• Stay informed about industry trends: Keep up with technological advancements and emerging opportunities in various trades.

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