USA 
United Kingdom
A growing number of young workers are trading university degrees for trade skills.
Gen Z, now dubbed the 'toolbelt generation,' is showing an increased enthusiasm for roles in skilled trades, ranging from carpentry and welding to computer programming.
Interest in trade schools has almost doubled since 2017, and Gen Z is at the forefront of that shift. Their motivations paint a picture of a workforce prioritizing hands-on learning, cost-effective education, and faster access to income.
Tracy Lorenz, president of Universal Technical Institute, said: "In 2025, interest in skilled trades will continue to accelerate among young Gen Z, who increasingly view these careers as a more practical and rewarding alternative to traditional career paths. For a growing number, the skilled trades may offer a faster path to a career that aligns with their interests and goals."
Traditional college degrees losing appeal
The rising cost of higher education, paired with growing student debt burdens, is diminishing the appeal of a four-year degree. Gen Z, despite holding the lowest average student loan debt, still faces an average of $23,000. That economic pressure is pushing many toward faster, less expensive paths.
Confidence in the US higher education system has dropped 21% over the last decade, and Gen Z is leading the re-evaluation. While college was once a default choice, it’s now being weighed against alternatives that offer quicker returns and relevant skills.
Skilled trades are also aligned with Gen Z's values, with a focus on mental health, financial security, and digital literacy. Many of those trades allow for practical application of digital tools and offer a more structured pathway into meaningful employment.
Employers ease off degree demands
Hiring managers are also shifting their focus. Nearly 50% of employers have already removed or are considering dropping college degree requirements. Instead, job qualifications are increasingly skills-based, around what candidates can do rather than where they studied.
As traditional enrollment numbers decline, trade programs are attracting students seeking real-world value. With fewer students pursuing college degrees, trade schools are seeing increased enrollment from across all generations.
The 'toolbelt generation' may have started with Gen Z, but their embrace of skilled trades is likely to influence future workforce trends. As companies invest in employees with technical proficiency rather than academic pedigree, the emphasis on skills over status is gaining momentum.
