In recent years, a significant shift has been observed in the career choices of Generation Z. With college costs skyrocketing and white-collar job security becoming increasingly uncertain, many young people are opting to forgo four-year degrees in favor of blue-collar careers and skilled trades. This trend is reshaping the landscape of work in America, offering a new perspective on success and financial stability.
The traditional narrative of college as the primary path to a successful career is being challenged. Many Gen Zers grew up hearing that college was the only route to success, with parents and teachers emphasizing its importance. However, the reality of today’s job market and the financial burden of higher education have led to a reevaluation of this belief.
Over the past two decades, the cost of college education has risen dramatically. The average annual cost for a four-year public college has increased by more than 140%, while private universities have seen a rise of about 110%. Simultaneously, jobs that typically require college degrees are no longer as secure as they once were, with major companies like Google, Amazon, and PayPal announcing significant layoffs.
In response to these challenges, many young people are turning to blue-collar jobs and skilled trades that don’t require a four-year degree. These careers offer several advantages:
- Hands-on work experience
- Quicker entry into the workforce
- Competitive starting salaries (around $20-$25 per hour)
- Lower educational costs
- Opportunity to start their own businesses
The story of Morgan Bradbury exemplifies this trend. Initially considering college for engineering or physical therapy, Morgan discovered welding while working on becoming an Eagle Scout. Fascinated by the combination of engineering principles and hands-on work, she opted for a nine-month welding certification course instead of a four-year degree. The $22,000 tuition, while not insignificant, was far less than a traditional college education.
Morgan’s decision paid off quickly. She secured a job as a third-class welder with BAE Systems before even completing her certification. At 19, she was earning about $57,000 a year. Now, at 21, she’s a second-class welder working on U.S. Navy ships, enjoying a diverse and challenging work environment.
Another example is Chase Gallagher, who started his landscaping business at 18. By prioritizing his business over traditional schooling, Chase had saved $120,000 by high school graduation. Instead of spending it on college tuition, he invested in his company. In 2024, his business brought in over $1 million in sales, with Chase earning about $491,000 through salary and owner’s share.
This shift towards blue-collar careers is supported by market trends. Since 2019, average starting salaries for skilled workers have risen over 25%, from $18.70 to $23.43 per hour. Net hiring for new blue-collar workers has remained consistently higher than for white-collar workers of the same age, especially since 2020.
The future for skilled workers like Morgan and Chase looks promising, despite potential challenges such as tariffs affecting industries like construction. As older workers retire and college tuitions remain high, more Gen Z members are likely to enter the blue-collar workforce. This trend is expected to contribute to economic dynamism and provide increased financial opportunities for young workers.
In conclusion, the rise of Gen Z in blue-collar careers represents a significant shift in the American workforce. By choosing practical skills over traditional degrees, these young workers are not only avoiding debt but also positioning themselves to fill crucial gaps in skilled labor. As this trend continues, it may well reshape our understanding of career success and the path to financial stability in the coming years.