While many assume Gen Z is primarily focused on tech careers and digital jobs, a surprising shift is occurring in America’s youngest working generation. Recent data shows that 42% of Gen Z adults are either working in or actively pursuing blue-collar and skilled trade careers, challenging traditional expectations about their career preferences.
What’s even more intriguing is that this trend isn’t limited to those without college degrees. Among Gen Z graduates holding bachelor’s degrees, 37% are choosing to work in or pursue blue-collar careers. The reasons behind this shift are as diverse as the generation itself, but job security and better long-term prospects top the list, with 30% citing these factors as their primary motivation. Some workers report they are seeking more flexibility and independence in their work roles.
The looming presence of artificial intelligence is playing a significant role in this career pivot. With 65% of Gen Z believing that a college degree won’t shield them from AI-driven job displacement, many are turning to trades that require irreplaceable human skills. After all, robots might write your emails, but they probably won’t fix your plumbing anytime soon. Projections suggest that 300 million jobs worldwide could be impacted by AI by 2030, making hands-on trades increasingly attractive to young workers.
There’s a notable gender dimension to this trend, though. Male Gen Z graduates are more likely to pursue blue-collar careers than their female counterparts (46% versus 27%). This disparity reflects persistent societal expectations and traditional occupational roles, though female participation in trades is gradually increasing. Recent analysis shows that women aged 27-29 face stagnating application rates while their male peers continue to see growth.
Economic factors are also driving this shift. With college costs soaring higher than a contractor’s ladder and student debt weighing heavily on millennials’ minds, many Gen Zers are opting for career paths that require less initial investment and offer quicker entry into the workforce.
Social media has helped reshape perceptions too, with 53% of Gen Z citing its influence on their view of blue-collar work.
The future of work might not look quite like previous generations imagined. Instead of corner offices and computer screens, many young workers are finding fulfillment, security, and success in trades that build, fix, and maintain the physical world around us.
It seems that in an increasingly digital age, hands-on work has never been more appealing to young professionals.
