Gen Z workers want to pursue skilled trades but face barriers

Training programs can’t keep up with demand, which may signal a need for employer investments, Dewalt says.

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More than two-thirds of high schoolers enrolled in skilled trades programs say they’re committed to their future trade career, but they also faced challenges when trying to access critical training, according to a Nov. 18 report from Dewalt, a Stanley Black & Decker brand.

In this survey of 225 U.S. high school students, half of students said they were placed on a waitlist for training. Once enrolled, though, 55% participated in internships, 47% in mentorship opportunities and 46% in real-world work experiences.

“Annual hiring in the U.S. for critical skilled trades roles could be more than 20 times the projected annual increase in net new jobs from 2022-2032 as Gen Z enters the workforce,” Maria Ford, president of commercial and industrial for Dewalt, said in a statement.

“Skilled trades jobs play an essential role in our country’s infrastructure and economy,” she said. “This is a call to the industry to embrace this generation’s passion and their needs to remain lifelong tradespeople.”

Overall optimism appears high:

• About 80% of students said they were introduced to a trades career by age 15, and more than 25% were exposed by age 13. 
• Most said they feel optimistic about their career choice, with 77% saying they’re “somewhat” to “extremely” optimistic. 

About 84% said they believe they’ll be hired immediately after graduation, and 67% have spoken with potential employers who expressed an interest in hiring them. 

Barriers and keys to success, including work-life balance

Students pointed to concerns such as the cost of trade school, availability of networking opportunities, and access to equipment and tools needed for training. They also rated work-life balance (85%) and a caring boss (79%) as “somewhat” or “extremely” important for their future job.

Meeting future Gen Z workers where they’re at may be critical for talent attraction and retention, researchers found. About a third of students said they’d leave the skilled trades if the industry doesn’t meet their expectations, citing critical needs such as work-life balance and a clear path to advancement.

Skilled trades careers appear to be gaining traction with Gen Z workers, particularly due to social media influence and the potential for greater economic security, according to a Thumbtack survey. At the same time, most Gen Z students said there’s a stigma associated with vocational schooling and skilled trades, according to a Jobber report. 

Young women, in particular, voiced hesitancy due to potential discrimination, as well as general discouragement from pursuing trade careers. To make trade careers more appealing, Gen Z students pointed to flexible work hours, job stability and overtime pay.