Why Skilled Trades Might Be Smarter Than University Right Now

Why Skilled Trades Might Be Smarter Than University Right Now





Deciding between attending a university or learning a skilled trade? It's a big decision to make. While universities have been the traditional path, skilled trades are becoming an increasingly smart option. Here's why.

Cost and Time Investment

University education often requires four years of study and can be expensive. In contrast, trade schools typically offer programs that last 3 to 24 months and cost less (Degree Choices, 2022). This means students can start working and earning sooner, without accumulating significant debt.

Job Demand and Security

There's a growing demand for skilled trade workers. Many industries are experiencing shortages, leading to strong job security for tradespeople (McKinsey & Company, 2023). Fields like construction, electrical work, and plumbing are in need of qualified professionals.

Earning Potential

Skilled trades can offer competitive salaries. For instance, certain trades have starting wages comparable to or even exceeding those of some university graduates (The Australian, 2025). Additionally, many trades offer opportunities for overtime and self-employment, potentially increasing earnings.

Job Satisfaction

Many tradespeople find satisfaction in their work due to its hands-on nature and tangible results. Building a structure or repairing a system provides a sense of accomplishment that desk jobs may not offer.

Conclusion

Choosing between university and skilled trades isn’t just about tradition anymore. It’s about strategy. In today’s economy, skilled trades are not a “second choice” or a fallback. They're a smart, forward-thinking move for anyone who wants job security, high income potential, and faster entry into the workforce with less debt.

We’re living in a time when a four-year degree doesn’t guarantee a job or a paycheck that justifies the student loans that come with it. I'm seeing an increased number of university grads registering into Trades colleges for better and faster career options. Skilled trades like electrical work, HVAC, plumbing, and carpentry are in such high demand that employers are actively competing to attract and retain talent. Some tradespeople are not just surviving but they're thriving, owning businesses, and building wealth by their 30s, while many university grads are still trying to break even.

More importantly, skilled trades offer something universities often don’t: purpose-driven, meaningful work. You’re solving real problems, helping real people, and seeing tangible results. That sense of accomplishment is something you can’t put a price on.

So before following the crowd to university, stop and ask: What kind of life do I want? Because the smarter choice might be picking up a tool belt instead of a textbook.

References

Degree Choices. (2022). 58 Trade School vs. College Statistics for 2022. Retrieved from https://www.degreechoices.com/blog/trade-school-statistics/

McKinsey & Company. (2023). The Critical Demand for Trade Skills in the US. Retrieved from https://www.mckinsey.com/capabilities/people-and-organizational-performance/our-insights/tradespeople-wanted-the-need-for-critical-trade-skills-in-the-us

The Australian. (2025). Trades Trump Degrees in Jobs Market. Retrieved from https://www.theaustralian.com.au/higher-education/tradies-are-earning-more-than-some-university-graduates/news-story/fd8e4a3cd46f6acccc92530997d24930

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