Human Capital Solutions, Inc.’s Post

Did you know in many post-grad apprenticeships, apprentices earn college credits? Some even finish with an associates degree at no cost. "Nearly 80% of respondents in Jobber’s survey said their parents wanted them to go to college." In our work, we find most high school students that already know they want to go in to a trade have a family member they've seen make a career off it. Choosing a lifelong career at 17, 18 is scary - especially if you don't know anyone in the field you're interested in. Central Midwest Carpenters has Representatives and Outreach Specialists (like Hope Harp!), visiting classrooms, technical schools, and career days constantly to make up for the decades parents and educators spent pushing kids into college and student debt. Now we're seeing students taking control of their career; picking trades like carpentry or welding because classroom learning isn't for them, they like figuring something out with their hands, or getting to physically see what they accomplish at the end of the day. They can make those choices confidently by visiting apprenticeship training centers, talking to instructors about the path, with the support of their high school teachers and their family, even when their families work in healthcare or tech. Be that bridge for young people into a career they love. Learn more about apprenticeships, skilled trades, and alternative postgrad options. https://lnkd.in/dp_TjaE7

This is a timely and well-informed article from The Wall Street Journal. We are witnessing firsthand the evolving preferences of Gen Z in the workforce, particularly the growing interest in trade apprenticeships. It's clear that as AI continues to reshape industries, the need for adaptable talent becomes increasingly vital. Understanding these shifting dynamics allows employers to tailor recruitment and talent development strategies to attract and retain top talent in today's competitive landscape.

Gen Z is rewriting the career rulebook, and we love that they are all about the trades. They are skipping the long years of debt and traditional paths and are making a solid living straight out of apprenticeships, and here is why we think it's brilliant: While the quest for higher education, such as medical degrees, is honorable and necessary, it often comes with a hefty price tag of debt and years of commitment. In contrast, apprenticeship programs present a compelling alternative, offering hands-on training and a direct path to financial stability. Gen Z is debunking the myth that success only comes with a white-collar job. With 4-5 years of solid training, these professionals can nail their craft and become top-notch pros, excelling in professions that are essential to our society’s infrastructure. The narrative is shifting, and so is the perception of professional success. Skilled trades are no longer the backdrop of the workforce; they are stepping into the spotlight as a preferred career choice for a generation eager to build, innovate, and lead without the burden of overwhelming debt. Way to go Gen Z for embracing the trades and redefining what it means to be a working professional. The future is skilled, and it’s looking bright!

Addressing the climate crisis is going to require way more electricians, HVAC technicians, plumbers and other specialized construction tradespeople than we have today. That’s why it’s so encouraging to read the stats in this piece: Gen Z is driving a spike in vocational school enrollment and demand for paid apprenticeships, and that’s because these non-college career paths offer good, family-sustaining wages and an opportunity for entrepreneurship.

We need more of these stories told to promote these apprenticeship programs, which are real win-win-wins for the employers, the employees and the communities in which the companies can grow.

Apprentice programs are so important and sometimes have a bad reputation but manufacturing today is no longer the sweat shops of our fathers and grandfathers. The earnings after the programs are completed look great as well and let's not forget the "earn while you learn" option. We offer an apprentice program here in Omaha at our location that is sponsored by #ICATT and the #GACC Midwest. After the three years, the apprentices have a associate degree from a community college, a certificate from the German Chamber of Commerce that is recognized anywhere in the world, and they have a job - plus they are debt free. Now, let's compare this to a college graduate: Needs to study for four years (one more year!), usually no earnings because of the college studies (!), needs to look for a job (!), and usually not debt free when graduating (!). The apprentice programs are not a bad deal in my book.

New data: Gen Z is increasingly interested in vocational trades. While there are likely to be many societal benefits resulting from this shift in behavior, it’s also something of a canary in the coal mine for the business model underlying higher education. It’s true that degrees demonstrate a range of skills and perseverance necessary to succeed in a variety of roles outside a given field of study. But as a higher share of students chose alternative paths, greater support towards similar credentials are much needed. My view? More broadly implemented and funded apprenticeships could change this reality of education vs experience from an either-or, to a yes-and. Curious to hear if you agree or disagree. #GenZ #Work #Education https://lnkd.in/eAnAfjzC

College students will take out an estimated $100 billion – billion, with a “B” – more in brand new college debt this year. Some Zoomers are looking at trade school instead, and why not? It typically takes two years or less from Day One of trade school to entering the job market and at a much smaller price tag – averaging between $5,000 and $15,000. Demand and pay for skilled tradespeople is climbing, and you never need to worry about your hands-on job being outsourced. Ninety percent of apprentices stay in the field and average $80,000 in annual salary, according to Apprenticeship USA. Sounds pretty good – and I work with a lot of skilled tradespeople who make much more. This The Wall Street Journal article examines how these and other reasons – including a sense of accomplishment and the job satisfaction that can come from the trades – are driving Gen Z to enroll in vocational programs at a rate higher than has been seen in years. For those of us who have been advocating for the skilled trades, this is no time to rest on our laurels. We need to keep pushing to give kids the chance to talk trades with those currently working in the industry and give them the opportunity to try the hands-on classes that will allow them to make informed decisions about their career futures. #skilledtrades #jobs #careers #careeradvice #jobseekers #hvac #electrical #plumbing

Something to celebrate! The skilled trades deficit is real and we see the devastating effects it can have on a business. But there is hope. Mentorship programs and apprenticeships have made a difference, helping young people at a critical time in their lives by creating loyalty, purpose, and community. Looking to build your own programs? Reach out to us to learn how we can help. Let's work together to bridge the skilled trades gap. #SkillTrades #WorkWithYourHandz #Hiring #Recruitment #Apprenticeship #Mentors

Are you considering a career change? According to a recent article shared by Michael McLean, there's a growing trend among Gen Z towards trade jobs. The article cites higher remuneration, a desire for hands-on work, and the threat of AI replacing white collar jobs as factors driving the shift. This trend is evidenced by growing enrollments in trade skills and apprenticeships. Check out the article to learn more about how Gen Z is becoming the toolbelt generation. #GenZ #TradeJobs #Apprenticeships #SkillsTraining