More than three-quarters of Gen Z students agree there’s a stigma associated with going to vocational school over a traditional four-year university, which may influence their education and career choices, according to a July 29 report from Jobber, a home service software firm.
When asked what would make a trade career more appealing, students pointed to flexible work hours (73%), job stability (61%) and overtime pay (58%).
In a survey of 1,000 U.S. students considering or attending college between ages 18-20, students identified family as the biggest influence on their careers, with about half saying their family members played a role in what they chose to pursue. After that, 35% said TV shows and movies influenced their careers, often portraying trade professionals negatively as incompetent, unhealthy or unhappy.
Beyond that, nearly half of Gen Z respondents agreed that women are discouraged from pursuing trade careers, typically starting at a young age. About 58% also said women face more discrimination in trade careers, with more women saying this (68%) as compared to men (47%).
In addition, 41% agreed that the potential for AI to replace jobs has made it more difficult to achieve the “American Dream.” As a result, nearly half said they believe there will be fewer future job opportunities.
Despite gains in 2023, many manufacturers, for example, are still struggling to fill critical labor gaps, according to a UKG Workforce Institute report. In response, they’re strengthening the employee experience among front-line workers, training managers and diversifying recruitment by proactively reaching out to women and other nontraditional hires.
The U.S. manufacturing industry is also collaborating with high schools, community colleges and economic development groups to build awareness and interest among students. Companies offer facility tours, day-long workshops and courses in high-demand areas such as welding and machine technologies.
In New York, a nonprofit helps train, place and develop hundreds of trade careers annually. The Andromeda Community Initiative offers free professional development to underserved and underemployed groups, especially communities of color, to connect them with careers in construction trades.