More Gen Z, Alpha Students Choosing Trades Over College

Gen Z and Gen Alpha are increasingly choosing trade careers over traditional college paths, according to new survey data. Rising tuition costs and uncertain returns on a degree are driving this shift. Once stigmatized, trade careers are gaining respect—84% of Gen Zers and their parents now view the trades favorably, and 67% of Gen Z said social media boosted their interest, per Thumbtack’s Future of the Skilled Trades Report.

An American Student Assistance survey found the number of middle and high school students likely to attend a four-year college after graduation dropped 25 points since 2018. Meanwhile, interest in the trades doubled, from 4% to 8%. Today, 23% of students report no immediate plans to continue formal education—a 10-point rise since 2018. Girls remain more likely than boys to pursue higher education, with 53% of high school girls vs. 39% of boys planning to attend college.

"Both Gen Z and Gen Alpha turning more to trade schools...should come as no surprise," said Alex Beene, a financial literacy instructor at the University of Tennessee at Martin. "The financial incentives...are hard to ignore...careers covered are in-need and high paying."

HR consultant Bryan Driscoll said, "These generations are making practical decisions...A four-year degree no longer guarantees a stable job or financial security, but almost always guarantees debt...Trade schools offer a faster, more affordable path to a well-paying career."

Kevin Thompson, CEO of 9i Capital Group, added, "The overall cost of college has become overly expensive...many don’t want to be saddled with exorbitant debts, and see trade schools and community college as better options."

As college costs continue to rise—anywhere from $100,000 to nearly $400,000—young people are questioning its value. "For years, trade schools were unfortunately looked over...Now, new generations are seeing their benefits," said Beene.

Driscoll noted, "They’ve seen older generations struggle despite 'doing everything right.' So they’re choosing paths that feel more aligned with their values and their wallets...If this trend continues, it could rebalance how we think about work and education."

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