Gen Z Bets on Trades for the Faster Path to $100K

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For a growing share of young Americans, the road to a six-figure salary may run through a toolbox rather than a lecture hall. In a survey of 2,000 Americans aged 16 to 28, two-thirds said becoming a tradesperson is a quicker way to reach a $100,000 salary than going to college. Only 32% thought choosing university over an apprenticeship was a good idea.

The appeal is practical. Asked about the benefits of trade school or apprenticeships, respondents pointed to hands-on experience and earning income right away (37% each), avoiding student debt (36%) and progressing while learning (35%). Nearly a quarter (23%) believe a trade could help them buy a home sooner than a degree would.

Interest high, information patchy

Enthusiasm is strong: 76% find the idea of earning while learning through an apprenticeship very appealing, 58% think trades are becoming more attractive to their peers, and among those not already in a trade, 71% would be interested in trying one. But 31% had never even considered skilled trades, and their guesses about pay were modest, with the average estimate of a typical tradesperson's annual salary at about $57,000.

Old stereotypes linger as well. Twenty-eight percent believe trade jobs are physically demanding with little room for progression, and 25% assume tradespeople always work in dirty or messy conditions. The overall picture is a little contradictory: 73% call trade jobs essential to society, while 41% still believe a college degree is the only path to success. Gen Z, like the rest of us, can hold two opinions before breakfast.

Who shapes the decision

Young people mostly get career information from parents and family (37%), followed by social media and teachers (35% each). About half have been encouraged to consider trades, and 61% feel well informed by their school. Most (48%) prefer a mix of practical and classroom learning. The survey was commissioned by Wolverine Worldwide as part of its effort to promote skilled careers. Even with that context, the message for students and parents is worth noting: the trades are now seen by many young people as a serious financial strategy, and better information about real pay and progression could make that choice easier.