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Two-thirds of Gen Z think becoming a tradesperson is a quicker way to a $100k salary than going to college.
A poll of 2,000 US 16- to 28-year-olds found only 32 percent think opting for university instead of an apprenticeship is a good idea.
Gaining hands-on experience (37 percent), the avoidance of student debt (36 percent) and being able to progress and earn money while you learn (35 percent) were seen as some of the main benefits of bypassing university.
It emerged that 23 percent believe they’d able to buy a home quicker if they become a tradesperson than going to college.
The research was commissioned by Wolverine, which is supporting the next generation of skilled tradespeople with its #ProjectBootstrap initiative.
A spokesperson for the corporation said: “It’s fascinating to understand young people’s views on going into the trade.
“While a college degree remains the right path for many, it’s clear that a growing number of Gen Zs are recognizing the opportunities that skilled trades can offer.
“Demand for skilled workers remains strong across many industries, and trades can provide a clear pathway to financial stability and long-term career growth.”
The study also found young people are looking for well-paid jobs (29 percent), a work-life balance (20 percent) and flexibility (18 percent) – but haven’t considered a trade job, despite those roles meeting their criteria.
And 18 percent value job security, hands-on work (10 percent) and the ability to earn good money without taking on student debt (10 percent).
However, 31 percent said they had never considered a career in the skilled trades and 12 percent didn’t realize that benefits like flexibility, strong pay and long term stability are a core part of trade work.
And many said they associated them with outdated stereotypes, with 28 percent believing trade roles were physically demanding with little room for progression.
A further 25 percent were of the assumption you’re always working in dirty or messy environments.
It was found that 21 percent of all respondents said they value personal growth and are always looking to improve their life
But for 16-year-olds, 38 percent are worried about earning enough money after they’ve left high school, while 28 percent worry about choosing the right career path (28 percent) and finding a job (26 percent).
When all respondents were asked how much they think a skilled tradesperson makes in a typical year, the average came out as $57,005.11 USD.
And as a result, 58 percent believe these types of jobs are becoming more appealing to people their age.
Of those who took part in the study by OnePoll.com and are not already in a trade role, 71 percent would be interested in trying it as their career.
A spokesperson for the company said: “The younger generation are looking for meaningful, secure work that offers real earning potential, and the skilled trades check all of those boxes.
“There’s still a perception gap when it comes to careers in the trades, but by highlighting real success stories and creating greater awareness of the different pathways into these professions, we can help more young people make informed decisions about their future.
“The demand for skilled workers continues to grow, and it’s encouraging to see so many expressing an interest in exploring careers that can provide long-term stability.”
Top 10 benefits of bypassing college and attending trade school or doing an apprenticeship instead:
1. You can gain hands-on experience and sharpen your skills
2. Earning a salary/income right away
3. Avoiding student loan debt
4. Being able to progress and earn money while you learn
5. Gaining real-world industry experience
6. Having a clearer career path from the start
7. Avoiding the cost of living associated with college (e.g., rent, bills)
8. Entering the workforce earlier
9. Learning in a more practical, less academic way
10. Feeling more independent sooner
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