The younger generation is transforming the labor landscape by choosing skilled trades over traditional college paths. Rising education costs, better income potential, and social media visibility are reshaping what success looks like for the next generation.
Trades attract Gen Z55% of Gen Z is now considering a career in the skilled tradesCollege is losing ground25% fewer Gen Z teens plan to pursue a 4-year degree (2018–2023)Cost is a factor$38,270/year average college cost vs. low-cost trade programsSocial media influence67% of Gen Z say TikTok/Instagram made them more interested in tradesDebt-free paths win$0 debt for many trade grads vs. $23,000 average student debtTrade school growth16% increase in vocational college enrollment (2022–2023)Work-readiness matters69% of Gen Z value hands-on learning and fast entry to the workforceJob security counts93% of Gen Z grads believe trades offer more security than college degreesCareer switching trend16% of Gen Z who started in white-collar jobs switched to trades for better pay Data sourced from ECMC Group, Thumbtack, U.S. Department of Labor, NY Post, and others (2023–2025).
