What’s behind Gen Z’s shift from college to trade schools? ROI
Steve Hunsaker
May 2, 2025
I’ve spent the last decade building multiple home service businesses in Arizona. Along the way, I’ve helped nearly 300 other service business owners do the same. What I’m seeing now is a massive shift: Gen Z is walking away from the traditional college path and heading straight into the trades. And honestly? It’s one of the smartest moves they could make.
College ROI just isn’t there anymore
The average cost of a four-year degree in the U.S. has more than doubled in the 21st century. Meanwhile, the return on that investment has steadily declined. Gen Zers are realizing they can spend one to two years in a trade program, avoid debt and step into a career that pays well from day one.
Some more advanced blue-collar jobs require apprenticeships; however, those are almost always paid. In some regions, payment for apprenticeships start at $40 an hour — more than college costs in a year, and no MLA formatting required!
And with the rise of AI, trades like plumbing, HVAC and electrical work are looking more secure than ever.
