🎓 College or Trade Jobs? The Truth No One Talks About

"Go to college, get a degree, and you’ll be set for life."

That’s what we were told, right? But what if I told you that wasn’t true anymore?

With rising student loan debt, oversaturated job markets, and a skilled labor shortage, many are rethinking the college path. The truth is, trade jobs are proving to be a smarter, more profitable career choice in 2025.

Let’s break down the real numbers, job security, and why the trades might just be the smartest career move right now.

1️⃣ College vs. Trade School: The Cost Breakdown

💰 Tuition & Student Loan Debt

📊 The average cost of college:

• Public University (4 years, in-state): $104,108 
• Private University (4 years): $223,360 
• Trade School (2 years or less): $5,000 - $15,000 TOTAL 

👀 The Reality:

A trade school graduate can start earning in 1-2 years with little to no debt, while a college graduate often carries $37,000+ in student loans.

⏳ Lost Earning Potential

By the time a college grad enters the workforce (~22-24 years old), a skilled tradesperson has been working for 4-6 years, gaining experience and income.

Example: A welder can start working at 19 years old and make $50K-$80K per year, while a college student is still paying tuition.

 

2️⃣ Do Trades Actually Pay Well? Let’s Talk Salaries

Many argue trade jobs don’t pay enough—but let’s compare actual salaries:

Job TitleAverage Salary (2024)Top 10% Earners

Electrician $60K - $120K $150K+

Plumber $55K - $110K $130K+

Welder $50K - $100K $150K+

HVAC Tech $55K - $110K $130K+

College Grad (avg) ~$55K (starting) ~$80K+ after 10 years

 

👉 Trade workers can earn six figures, often with no degree debt, while many college grads struggle to break $50K per year starting out.

 

3️⃣ "Trades Are Backbreaking Work" – True or False?

One common comment is:

"Trades are backbreaking work, for hardly any pensions, terrible pay, and way overworked."

But here’s the truth:

✅ Technology & tools have made physical labor easier

• CNC machines, automation, and robotics assist in many trade jobs.
• Not all trades require extreme physical labor (welding inspectors, HVAC supervisors, etc.).

✅ Career growth opportunities exist in trades

• Tradesmen often own businesses in their 30s.
• Many move into teaching, inspections, consulting, or management roles.

🔥 Example: A welder can become a welding inspector, making six figures without heavy lifting.

4️⃣ Why Gen Z & Millennials NEED to Consider the Trades

📉 A Massive Skilled Labor Shortage = Job Security

• 40% of skilled tradesmen will retire by 2035 📌 (Source: Associated Builders and Contractors, 2024).
• There are millions of unfilled trade jobs across the U.S.
• Companies are desperate for workers, driving wages up.

🎓 Meanwhile, College Grads Are Unemployed…

• 53% of recent grads are unemployed or underemployed 📌 (Source: Federal Reserve, 2024).
• A degree no longer guarantees a job—but the trades do.

🔥 The Bottom Line:

The next generation has a choice:

❌ Follow the “college or bust” myth and risk debt & job uncertainty

✅ Choose a skilled trade and have job security, high pay, and faster career growth

🚀 Final Thoughts: Should You Rethink College?

If you’re considering a career path that guarantees job security, high pay, and no debt, the trades might be your best option.

Here’s what to do next:

✅ Look into trade schools or apprenticeships in your area.

✅ Follow my blog & social media for more insights on the trades industry.

✅ Drop a comment: Do you think trades are a better option than college? Let’s talk!