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Gen Z views skilled trades as faster path to wealth than college
A survey commissioned by Wolverine as part of its Project Bootstrap initiative reveals that two-thirds of Gen Z respondents in the United States view skilled trades as a faster route to a $100,000 annual salary than attending college.
The poll, which surveyed 2,000 individuals aged 16 to 28, found that only 32% of respondents believe opting for a university education over an apprenticeship is a good idea. Key drivers for choosing trades include gaining hands-on experience (37%), avoiding student debt (36%), and the ability to earn money while learning (35%). Additionally, 23% of those surveyed believe trade careers would allow them to purchase a home more quickly.
Despite these perceived benefits, the study noted that 31% of respondents had never considered a career in the skilled trades, and 12% were unaware of the flexibility and stability these roles offer. Many young people still associate trades with outdated stereotypes, such as being overly physically demanding or involving messy environments. While the average perceived annual salary for a tradesperson is $57,005, 58% of respondents believe these roles are becoming increasingly appealing to their generation.
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- [● 4 SOURCES] Two-thirds of Gen Z respondents believe trades offer a faster route to a $100,000 salary than college. republicmonitor.com · www.hcnews.com · pontevedrarecorder.com · kioncentralcoast.com
- [● 4 SOURCES] 23% of respondents believe becoming a tradesperson allows for quicker home ownership compared to attending college. republicmonitor.com · www.hcnews.com · pontevedrarecorder.com · kioncentralcoast.com
- [● 4 SOURCES] A poll of 2,000 Americans aged 16 to 28 found only 32% believe choosing university over an apprenticeship is a good idea. republicmonitor.com · www.hcnews.com · pontevedrarecorder.com · kioncentralcoast.com
- [● 4 SOURCES] The average perceived annual salary for a skilled tradesperson among respondents is $57,005. republicmonitor.com · www.hcnews.com · pontevedrarecorder.com · kioncentralcoast.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] 58% of respondents believe trade jobs are becoming more appealing to their age group. kioncentralcoast.com
- [● 4 SOURCES] Wolverine commissioned the research as part of its Project Bootstrap initiative. republicmonitor.com · www.hcnews.com · pontevedrarecorder.com · kioncentralcoast.com
- [● 4 SOURCES] 31% of respondents have never considered a career in the skilled trades. republicmonitor.com · www.hcnews.com · pontevedrarecorder.com · kioncentralcoast.com