Blue Collar Boom: High-Paying Trade Jobs Ignored by College Grads
In recent years, there has been a growing trend in higher education: a push for every student to attend college and obtain a traditional four-year degree. While a college education can certainly open doors and lead to lucrative careers, it’s not the only path to success. In fact, there is a booming industry that is desperate for skilled workers: blue collar trades. Despite the high demand and potential for high-paying jobs, these trade professions are being ignored by college graduates who are instead saddled with student loan debt and uncertain job prospects. Let’s take a closer look at the blue collar boom and why college grads should consider trade jobs as a viable and rewarding career option.
The Appeal of Blue Collar Trades
The term “blue collar” typically refers to skilled labor or manual work, such as welding, plumbing, carpentry, and electrical work. These jobs often require specialized training or apprenticeships, but not a traditional college degree. What’s more, these trades are in high demand and typically offer competitive salaries and benefits.
One of the main appeals of trade jobs is the potential for high-paying wages. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for an electrician was $56,180 in 2019, while the median salary for a plumber was $55,160. In comparison, the median salary for all occupations was only $39,810. And with the demand for these trades expected to continue growing, the salaries are only expected to increase.
Another appeal of blue collar trades is the job security and stability they offer. Tradespeople are always needed, and their skills are not easily replaced by technology or automation. This means that even during economic downturns, trade professionals are less likely to face unemployment compared to those in other industries.
The College Dilemma
Despite the many benefits of trade jobs, they are often overlooked by college graduates. For many, the pressure to obtain a college degree and the traditional notion of success have been ingrained in us from a young age. As a result, many students feel pressured to go to college, even if they are unsure of their career path or not suited for the academic environment. This leads to student loan debt and degrees in fields that may not necessarily have a high demand in the job market.
The push for college education has also led to the devaluation of blue collar trades. These jobs are often looked down upon and seen as a last resort for those who can’t hack it in college. This perception ignores the fact that trade jobs require specialized skills and are essential to our everyday lives. We rely on tradespeople for our electricity, plumbing, and other basic needs, yet their contributions are often undervalued.
The Need for Balance
The reality is that not everyone is cut out for a traditional four-year college degree. Some individuals thrive in a hands-on learning environment and can excel in a trade profession. By pushing everyone towards a college degree, we are ignoring an entire sector of the workforce and limiting their potential for success.
It’s time for a shift in mindset and a reevaluation of the value we place on trade jobs. We need to start promoting and encouraging individuals to explore all career options, including blue collar trades. This not only benefits the individual but also the economy and society as a whole. With the high demand for skilled trades, there is an opportunity for individuals to secure fulfilling and well-paid careers.
Conclusion
The blue collar boom is not just a temporary trend; it’s a growing industry that is here to stay. As college tuition continues to rise, it’s time for students and society to recognize the value and potential of trade jobs. Trade professions offer job stability, high-paying wages, and an opportunity for individuals to develop in-demand skills. So the next time someone tells you to go to college, remember that there are other paths to success. The key is to find the right one for you.
