Giving Compass' Take:
- Carolyn Crist explains Gen Z's uncertainty about pursuing trade careers due to the stigma surrounding them.
- What can donors do to support trade career development for Gen Z, particularly for youth of color and young women?
- Learn more about key issues in education and how you can help.
- Search our Guide to Good for nonprofits focused on education in your area.
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More than three-quarters of Gen Z students agree there’s a stigma associated with going to vocational school and pursuing trade careers over a traditional four-year university, which may influence their education and career choices, according to a July 29 report from Jobber, a home service software firm.
When asked what would make a trade career more appealing, students pointed to flexible work hours (73%), job stability (61%) and overtime pay (58%).
The Stigma Around Trade Careers for Gen Z
In a survey of 1,000 U.S. students considering or attending college between ages 18-20, students identified family as the biggest influence on their careers, with about half saying their family members played a role in what they chose to pursue. After that, 35% said TV shows and movies influenced their careers, often portraying trade professionals negatively as incompetent, unhealthy or unhappy.
Beyond that, nearly half of Gen Z respondents agreed that women are discouraged from pursuing trade careers, typically starting at a young age. About 58% also said women face more discrimination in trade careers, with more women saying this (68%) as compared to men (47%).
In addition, 41% agreed that the potential for AI to replace jobs has made it more difficult to achieve the “American Dream.” As a result, nearly half said they believe there will be fewer future job opportunities.
Read the full article about trade careers for Gen Z by Carolyn Crist at HR Dive.