This audio is automatically generated. Please let us know if you have any comments.
More than two-thirds of high school students enrolled in skilled trades programs say they are committed to their future trade careers, but they also faced challenges when trying to access critical training. according to a November 18 report by Dewalt, a brand of Stanley Black & Decker.
In this survey of 225 high school students in the US, half of the students said they were on a waiting list for training. Once enrolled, however, 55% participated in internships, 47% in mentoring opportunities, and 46% in real work experiences.
“Annual US hiring for critical skilled jobs could be more than 20 times the projected annual increase in net new jobs between 2022 and 2032 as Generation Z enters the workforce,” said Maria Ford, president of commercial and industrial at Dewalt. he said in a statement.
“Skilled trades jobs play an essential role in our nation’s infrastructure and economy,” he said. “This is a call to the industry to embrace this generation’s passion and their needs to remain lifelong traders.”
Overall optimism seems high:
- About 80% of students said they started a career at age 15, and more than 25% were exposed at age 13.
- Most said they feel optimistic about their career choice, with 77% saying they are “somewhat” to “extremely” optimistic.
About 84% said they believe they will be hired immediately after graduation, and 67% have spoken with potential employers who expressed interest in hiring them.
Barriers and keys to success, including work-life balance
Students noted concerns such as the cost of trade school, the availability of networking opportunities, and access to equipment and tools needed for training. They also rated work-life balance (85%) and an attentive boss (79%) as “somewhat” or “extremely” important for their future work.
The researchers found that meeting future Gen Z workers where they are can be critical to attracting and retaining talent. About a third of students said they would leave the skilled trades if the industry did not meet their expectations, citing critical needs such as work-life balance and a clear path to advancement.
Careers in skilled trades seem to be gaining traction with Gen Z workersmostly due to the influence of social media and the potential for greater economic security, according to a survey by Thumbtack. At the same time, most Gen Z students said there is one stigma associated with vocational education and skilled trades, according to a Jobber report.
Young women, in particular, expressed hesitancy due to potential discrimination, as well as general discouragement from pursuing a career. To make business careers more attractive, Gen Z students pointed to flexible work hours, job stability and overtime pay.
