Business
Why Pursue an MBA Career Instead of Becoming a Plumber?
Last Updated on September 11, 2023 by Robert C. Hoopes
Title: Growing Number of Young Adults Embrace Skilled Trades as Lucrative Career Pathway
Subtitle: Study reveals changing perspectives on the value of trades among the younger generation
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In a recent study conducted by Thumbtack, it was found that an increasing number of young adults are considering skilled trades as a viable and appealing career option. The survey revealed that 73% of participants demonstrated respect for the craft, with a significant 47% expressing interest in pursuing a trade career.
For years, the prevailing notion was that a college degree was the only path to a successful and prosperous future. However, more young people now recognize the untapped potential for a fulfilling career and financial security that the trades can offer, all without the burden of hefty student loans.
Industries such as plumbing, electrical work, and construction are proving to be lucrative options. Skilled tradesmen in these fields can make a comfortable living, with the top 10% of plumbers earning six-figure incomes. Furthermore, union workers in these trades receive enticing benefits, including generous healthcare, retirement plans, and regular training opportunities.
Another appealing aspect of pursuing a trade career is the opportunity to become one’s own boss and establish a thriving business. Many young individuals are attracted to the idea of autonomy and being in control of their professional destiny. By investing time and effort into training and learning from experienced tradesmen, these ambitious individuals are honing their craft and preparing for a successful future.
This shift in perspective represents a promising recruitment opportunity for plumbing, electrical, and construction firms, particularly those helmed by Generation Xers and Baby Boomers. As younger generations increasingly embrace the trades, these established business owners have the unique advantage of appealing to fresh talent and helping cultivate the next generation of skilled professionals.
The story of a father who experienced this change of mindset firsthand serves as a striking example of the growing recognition of trade careers. Initially insisting that his son should pursue a traditional college education, the father eventually realized the immense value of a trade career. Realizing that his son had accumulated a staggering $300,000 in debt for a business management degree, the father encouraged him to join the family’s plumbing business. Today, the son has found fulfillment and financial stability in the trade, proving that success is not confined to conventional academic paths.
As more young adults reconsider their career choices and discover the promising potential in skilled trades, the landscape of the job market is gradually shifting. The recognition of these trades as respectable and financially rewarding professions, alongside the opportunity for personal and professional growth, is undoubtedly attracting a new wave of talent to the industry.
With this changing narrative, the future looks bright for skilled trades and the young professionals who embark on this enriching journey. The fusion of experience and innovation, brought about by the collaboration between generations, is paving the way for a thriving and prosperous future within the trades.