Whether you like them trade jobs or not, millennials take note.
It’s no big secret that we like millennials (even though I’m not that generation anymore!).
We’ve spent many days thinking about new opportunities for this generation and, inevitably, decided the next best step was to look at trade jobs — not too left field, but because it makes real sense.
Here’s why.
“Millennials” refers to the generation born between 1981 and 1996. They are also known as Generation Y and are the children of the baby boomers (Generation X).
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“Trade jobs” refer to occupations that require specific skills, often manual, which are acquired through vocational education or apprenticeships. Examples include electricians, plumbers, carpenters, and welders.
Background Overview of Millennials and Trade Jobs
Historically, millennials have been encouraged to pursue four-year degrees, leading to a decline in the number of young people entering trade jobs.
However, as the baby boomer generation retires, there is a growing demand for skilled trade workers.
This guide aims to explore the potential benefits, challenges, and opportunities for millennials in the trade industry.
Features and Benefits of Millennials Working in Trade Jobs
- Less Student Debt: Trade schools are typically less expensive than four-year colleges, resulting in less student debt.
- High Demand: With the retirement of older workers, there is a high demand for skilled trade workers.
- Good Pay: Many trade jobs offer competitive salaries, often exceeding those of some professions requiring a four-year degree.
- Job Security: The need for skilled trade workers is constant, providing job security.
- Satisfaction: Trade jobs often provide a sense of accomplishment as workers can see the tangible results of their work.
Examples of Millennials in Trade Jobs
- Jake, the Electrician: Jake chose to become an electrician straight out of high school. He completed an apprenticeship and is now a licensed electrician earning a good salary.
- Sarah, the Plumber: Sarah decided to follow in her father’s footsteps and become a plumber. She enjoys the problem-solving aspect of her job.
- Tom, the Carpenter: Tom found his passion for woodworking in high school. He attended a trade school and is now a successful carpenter.
- Emily, the Welder: Emily was always fascinated by the idea of creating things with her hands. She trained as a welder and now works on large construction projects.
- Daniel, the HVAC Technician: Daniel wanted a job that offered stability and good pay. He trained as an HVAC technician and is now enjoying a successful career.
Challenges with Millennials Working in Trade Jobs
- Perception: Trade jobs are often perceived as less prestigious than jobs requiring a four-year degree.
- Physical Demand: Trade jobs can be physically demanding and may lead to health issues over time.
- Lack of Awareness: Many millennials are not aware of the opportunities available in trade jobs.
Steps to Encourage Millennials to Work in Trade Jobs
- Promote Awareness: Highlight the benefits and opportunities of trade jobs in schools and communities.
- Provide Training: Offer apprenticeships and vocational training programs.
- Change Perception: Work to change the perception of trade jobs through positive media representation.
- Offer Incentives: Provide competitive salaries and benefits to attract millennials.
Conclusion
While there are challenges associated with millennials working in trade jobs, the benefits and opportunities are significant.
By promoting awareness, providing training, changing perceptions, and offering incentives, we can encourage more millennials to consider a career in the trades.
This will not only benefit the millennials themselves but also the economy as a whole.
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With 30+ years of training experience, I founded Oak Innovation (oakinnovation.com) in 1995. I help busy training professionals and business managers deliver better training courses in less time by giving them instant access to editable training course material. I received my Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from University College Cork. I hold qualifications in Professional Development And Training from University College Galway. Clients include Apple, Time Warner, and Harvard University.
