A growing trend among younger workers, especially Gen Z, reveals a shift towards blue-collar careers as an appealing alternative to traditional college pathways. This contrasts with the previous generation, Millennials, who largely viewed a college degree as essential for success. However, both generations often overlook the challenges that accompany these jobs.

Dalian Foucha, a 21-year-old fleet technician for an electric-bike rental company in New Orleans, exemplifies this trend. Earning $17 an hour, he redistributes bikes and changes batteries, often in sweltering conditions. “The job has its ups and downs,” he says, but lately, there have been more downs. Previously studying herpetology, he dropped out of college during his junior year due to financial pressures. While he found blue-collar work without a degree, his earnings last year were under $30,000, and he faced rising health insurance costs with no pay raises in nearly two years. “I want guaranteed stability,” he adds.

In January, Foucha will begin an apprenticeship with the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) to become an electrician. This opportunity promises a structured raise schedule, two weeks of paid time off, and fully covered health insurance, highlighting the potential benefits of trade careers.

Many Gen Z workers, recognizing the rising costs of college and the burden of student loans, see blue-collar jobs as a viable pathway to financial stability. A survey by Intuit Credit Karma indicated that young workers value work-life balance, job security, and availability in trade positions.

However, data indicates that neither blue-collar nor white-collar jobs guarantee a stable living. Both sectors experienced higher-than-average layoffs this year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. “There’s as much variation within these job categories as between them,” explains Ben Hanowell of ADP Research.

Compensation in blue-collar professions varies widely, from an average of $42,210 for woodworkers to $67,810 for electricians and up to $100,060 for elevator-repair workers. In contrast, the average annual wage across all occupations was approximately $65,470 as of May 2023.

While some blue-collar workers share success stories, others highlight significant drawbacks: long hours, harsh weather, and physical tolls on their bodies. The stigma associated with blue-collar work can also deter some from pursuing these careers. Reports of higher rates of addiction in blue-collar jobs further complicate the narrative.

Despite these challenges, the growing interest in skilled trades underscores a vital reality: not everyone can or wants to pursue a college education, and viable alternatives must exist for those seeking a good life.

The rising costs of higher education have made college increasingly inaccessible for many, particularly those from lower- and middle-income households. Journalist Will Bunch argues in his book that the promise of college is failing, particularly for Black and Hispanic students who face higher dropout rates than their white and Asian counterparts.

While college graduates tend to earn more on average, a 2023 Pew Research survey revealed that only 22% believe the cost of a four-year degree is justifiable, especially if it requires loans. Many feel that a degree is less essential now than it was two decades ago.

Kathryn Testament, who dropped out of community college while juggling work, found her path in a five-year paid apprenticeship through IBEW. Starting at $12.50 an hour, she now earns $32 an hour as an electrician, exemplifying the potential financial rewards of trade careers.

John Seaman, a blue-collar business owner, noted that some of his employees earn more than he did with a degree. He believes that opportunities in skilled trades are plentiful, especially as employers face a shortage of skilled workers.

While the Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that occupations like wind-turbine technicians and solar installers will see significant growth, the job market for white-collar positions remains tough. Many tech workers, including those with advanced degrees, have faced layoffs, challenging the notion that a degree guarantees job security.

The increasing number of young workers in blue-collar roles reflects changing attitudes towards vocational training. Recent political platforms emphasize trade school and community college access, recognizing that four-year degrees are not the only pathway to success.

However, trade school also carries risks. For example, Keelan Didier graduated from a two-year vocational school with substantial debt and is struggling to find consistent work in woodworking.

Scott Pressley Jr., another young worker, found success in solar panel installation, earning around $67,000 in his first year. He appreciates the opportunities available in skilled trades without the burden of educational debt.

Yet, not every story ends with financial success. Jason Blinsinger, a carpenter, faces the uncertainty of inconsistent work, often earning less than $40,000 annually while managing family responsibilities. He voices concerns about his physical well-being and the sustainability of his career.

Jeff Torlina’s journey from academia to masonry illustrates the volatility of both sectors. After losing his university job, he returned to trade work, now self-employed without benefits. He reflects on the quest for job security amid a landscape where both blue-collar and white-collar jobs can be precarious.

In conclusion, while blue-collar careers offer promising opportunities for many, the realities of these jobs necessitate careful consideration. The narratives of young workers like Foucha, Testament, and Pressley highlight the potential for success, yet also underscore the challenges that come with pursuing a path outside of traditional higher education.