Why These Gen Zers Are Ditching College Degrees For Blue-Collar Careers

About this Video

• Video Title: Why These Gen Zers Are Ditching College Degrees For Blue-Collar Careers
• Channel: CNBC Make It
• Speakers: Morgan Bradbur, Chase Gallagher
• Duration: 00:08:26

Introduction

This CNBC Make It video explores the trend of Gen Z individuals foregoing traditional four-year college degrees in favor of blue-collar careers and skilled trades. The video highlights the rising costs of college education, the uncertain job market for college graduates, and the increasing demand and higher earning potential within skilled trades as contributing factors to this shift. The video profiles two young Gen Z entrepreneurs who have found success in these fields.

Key Takeaways

• Rising College Costs and Uncertain Job Market: The cost of college has increased significantly over the past 20 years, making it less attainable for many. Simultaneously, the job market for college graduates is less reliable than in the past, with recent layoffs at major tech companies.
• Gen Z's Embrace of Blue-Collar Careers: Many Gen Z individuals are choosing blue-collar jobs and skilled trades that offer immediate earning potential and the possibility of starting their own businesses. These careers often require shorter, more affordable training programs than a four-year college degree.
• High Demand and Earning Potential in Skilled Trades: Skilled trades are experiencing a labor shortage, leading to high demand and competitive salaries for workers. The video showcases individuals earning substantial incomes early in their careers.
• Examples of Gen Z Success in Blue-Collar Fields: The video features Morgan Bradbur, a welder earning $57,000 a year at age 19, and Chase Gallagher, who started a successful landscaping business at 18 and generated over $1 million in sales in 2024.
• Future Outlook: While potential economic challenges exist, the long-term outlook for skilled trades remains positive, particularly as older generations retire and the need for skilled labor continues to grow. The video suggests Gen Z's entrepreneurial spirit in these fields will positively impact the economy.