Here Is How Much Gen Z Is Embracing Blue-Collar Work In 2024

According to a survey by Intelligent.com, approximately 32% of Gen Z respondents plan on working a blue-collar job. In recent years, an increasing number of the Gen Z population are opting out of the traditional route to employment to secure prestigious roles in white collar fields in favor of blue-collar jobs. This shift has been referred to as the “new collar workforce.” The way people view work has changed since the pandemic, and one of the most significant changes is amongst generation Z workers. Here’s how Gen Z is embracing blue collar work in 2024.

Why Is Gen Z Drawn To Blue Collar Work?

High school graduates have always been encouraged to pursue a college degree to secure their dream job and earn a decent living. Everyone from schools, parents, and the media have stressed the importance of higher education. A four-year college degree has long been held as a symbol of prestige, accomplishment, and pride. But this mindset is changing.

Gen Zers are more conscious of economic hardships. A global survey by Deloitte found that 56% of Gen Z respondents lived pay check to pay check, and a third of them were worried about the rising cost of living. These concerns are causing them to tighten their belts, and one way they are pinching the pennies is by joining the workforce earlier through apprenticeships and vocational training which are significantly less expensive than a four-year college degree. The average college graduate starts their working life with $29,400 worth of debt. Gen Zers have found a way out of this trap, and they are unapologetically taking it.

What Type Of Blue-Collar Jobs Are Gen Z Drawn to?

The Gen Z population are drawn to the type of blue-collar jobs that are financially rewarding and provide stability and longevity. Here are some of them:

Electrician

Electricians will always be in high demand, but with the growing emphasis on sustainable practices and renewable energy, the demand for this role has increased.

Plumber

Plumbers are essential for residential and commercial maintenance and construction. People will always need plumbers making the role very attractive to those looking for stable, long-term employment.

HVAC Technicians

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) technicians are essential for maintaining comfortable working and living environments. The advancement in technology has created new opportunities in this field.

Automotive Technicians

With the rise of hybrid and electric vehicles, automotive technicians with specialized training are in high demand.

Welders

The construction and manufacturing industries rely heavily on skilled welders making this job a viable option of gen z workers.

What Are The Pros And Cons Of Blue-Collar Work?

There are several pros and cons associated with blue collar work, here are some of them:

Pros:

• Blue collar jobs do not require a college degree to secure employment. They are skill-based positions requiring apprenticeships or vocational training which are more affordable than traditional routes of education.
• The competition for career growth is not as fierce within skilled trades. Many workers begin as apprentices and quickly move their way up the career ladder into supervisory or managerial roles.
• Blue collar jobs provide predictable working hours providing employees with a better work-life balance in comparison to high-pressure corporate jobs.

Cons:

• Depending on the job, blue collar work is physically demanding which increases the chances of employees suffering from long-term health issues.
• For those desiring to work from home, blue collar work is not an option as these positions are typically based on site.
• Despite the fact that blue collar workers have the potential to earn 6-figures in a less demanding environment than a corporate job, there is still a negative stigma attached to these roles.

Gen Z’s embrace of blue-collar work highlights a significant shift in career aspirations. While these jobs are not exempt from their challenges, they are becoming increasingly attractive to those looking to enter the job market debt free but still earn a respectable living.