Who is Going to do the Work?
America’s decades-long prioritization of the 4-year degree has pushed a new generation away from the skilled trades. What can industries that need skilled-trade workers do about it?
2 M
college-age students are unemployed with no college education
If and when we experience an economic
slowdown, the demand for these jobs should continue because:
A. There is already a significant worker
shortage.
B. Such jobs provide a core set of functions that will be in demand regardless of an up or down economy.
74%
The 4-year degree path may not be for everyone.
Businesses that rely on the skilled trades must engage this audience because high school and college-age students could feel pressure to get a 4-year degree and could very well go that route if they aren’t introduced to solid alternatives.
Key Insights
53%
of students feel pressure to get a bachelor’s degree vs trade school or associate’s degree
66%
of students strongly agree or agree with the statement:
The decision to go to college is as much about the college experience as it is getting a degree.
43%
