‘Tool belt generation’: High school grads choosing trade schools over 4-year colleges
Tania Luivano-Hurwitz
May 28, 2025
“There is a demand for electricians, plumbers, welders, any trade. There’s always going to be work. There is a high demand,” said Oscar Castañeda, who is learning welding skills after becoming an electrician.
Many high school graduates are choosing to enter skill trades — such as construction, welding and plumbing — instead of a four-year college. But what is the appeal?
In a few months, 18-year-old Ian Mundo will become an electrician.
“I just want to get something really quick, be done with it, go to work,” said Mundo, who graduated from high school not even a year ago. “I like to get my hands dirty.”
Oscar Castañeda says he wants to expand his opportunities. After becoming an electrician, he is now learning welding skills.
“There is a demand for electricians, plumbers, welders, any trade. There’s always going to be work. There is a high demand,” Castañeda said.
