In an age where Artificial intelligence (AI) continues to disrupt the job market, the Gen Z workforce is making a deliberate shift toward practical, hands-on careers.
When young workers see headlines about AI replacing entry-level white-collar roles, many are now viewing blue-collar jobs as a stable, rewarding alternative.
One of the most compelling reasons? “AI can’t install an HVAC system.” That quote, from David Rames at Midea, underscores the undeniable fact that AI and even advanced robotics can’t replicate the skill, precision, and adaptability required in many trades.
HVAC, plumbing, welding – they demand human ingenuity, physical dexterity, and situational judgment. No algorithm can nail that.
Enrollment in trade schools is on fire. Trade programs such as HVAC and welding are projected to grow about 6.6% per year.
Meanwhile, public two-year community colleges focused on vocational training have seen enrollment jump nearly 20% since 2020, compared to just 2.1% growth at traditional four-year institutions.
These trusted pipelines into jobs in the trades are flourishing as young people rethink their career paths.
The Gen Z pivot can also be seen in surveys: about 42% of Gen Z adults (ages 18–28) are working in or pursuing skilled trades like plumbing, welding, and electrical work and around 37% of that group already have college degrees.
Why? They’re looking for stable work that’s less vulnerable to automation, without massive student debt.
College tuition costs – which now exceed $38,000 per year – have made degrees feel riskier, especially when the ROI is uncertain.
AI adds further pressure: a Stanford study recently found steep declines in employment for early-career workers (22–25) in AI-exposed jobs like software engineering, while less-exposed roles such as nursing aides remained stable or grew.
AI adds further pressure: a Stanford study recently found steep declines in employment for early-career workers (22–25) in AI-exposed jobs like software engineering, while less-exposed roles such as nursing aides remained stable or grew.
But let’s be real even the trades come with challenges. In a Zety survey of Gen Z, 38% of respondents cited physical labor as their chief concern.
Still, many are willing to sweat a little for stability, decent pay, and more control over their careers.
HVAC technicians earn a median of around $60,000 per year, with the top 10% making over $91,000 figures comparable to liberal arts degree holders, and gained without burdensome debt.
Consider the story of David McLean, who earned four certifications (welding, electrical, HVAC, solar) and now works as an electrician plausibly making $45+ per hour, investing in real estate, and planning for a bright future.
Or take the broader trend: apprenticeships, trade school programs, and community colleges are enabling Gen Z to earn while learning and graduate with income potential not loans.
In summary, here’s why Gen Z, AI, jobs, and blue-collar trades are increasingly intertwined:
- AI threatens white-collar uncertainty, while hands-on trades remain in demand.
- Trade school and apprenticeship enrollments are rising.
- Wages in trades are solid, with less debt than a four-year degree.
- For many Gen Zers, trades offer autonomy, immediate income, and opportunity to build wealth.
While AI reshapes the workforce, for the toolbelt generation, trades offer not just a fallback, but a compelling choice.
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