Gen Z turns to skilled trades as AI reshapes career paths
HRD
Lauren Johnson
August 14, 2025
Expert says employers must rethink recruitment, career growth and workplace culture to attract and retain this emerging talent.
For years, the skilled trades have had to push for greater recognition as a viable career option. But that may be changing, judging by a recent survey.
Almost half (43%) of 1,000 Gen Z employees polled in the United States say they have changed or adjusted their career plans because of AI.
A further 53% are considering blue-collar and skilled trade roles in response to AI adoption.
This is an expected response from this generation, according to Jelena Zikic, professor at York University’s School of Human Resource Management.
“We know that they are very aware of the complex labour market, and so this is really related to employers having to rethink how to attract, particularly this group of workers.”
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