The trade industry is experiencing a resurgence as Gen Z turns towards trade schools as an alternative to traditional four-year universities. WyoTech, a trade school specializing in auto, collision/refinishing, diesel, and welding, has seen a surge in enrollment, reflecting the growing interest in skilled trades.
Summary of Key Information:
1. Rise in Trade School Enrollment:
- Gen Z is increasingly opting for trade school, leading to the nickname “Toolbelt Generation.”
- WyoTech has reported record-high enrollments for Fall 2024.
2. High Graduation and Employment Rates:
- WyoTech reported an 85% graduation rate in 2023, up from 77% in 2018.
- 77% of eligible WyoTech graduates were hired in the industry, with 458 students placed in jobs in 2023.
3. Shift from Traditional Four-Year Colleges:
- Growing recognition of the opportunities in trades challenges the stereotype that a four-year degree is essential for career success.
- Gen Z acknowledges the stability and earning potential of jobs requiring technical training over a university degree.
4. Gen Z Attitudes Towards Education:
- 54% of Gen Z believes well-paying jobs are available for those with just a high school diploma.
- 88% agree that a technical certificate makes it easier to find a stable, well-paying career.
5. Industry Demand:
- The shortage of tradespeople, as older generations retire, is creating significant opportunities for young people to enter these professions.