Gen Z is interested in blue-collar work—but not necessarily manufacturing

With a looming shortage of workers, the manufacturing industry will need to attract more young workers to fill 3.8 million jobs in the coming decade. But Gen Z might not be interested.

As the cost of a college education has ballooned to nearly $100,000 a year, a new generation of workers may be opting out of a four-year degree—and seeking out trade jobs instead. Among Gen Z, blue-collar jobs in industries like plumbing and construction have grown more appealing, promising job security and decent pay. A survey conducted by the Harris Poll last year found that Gen Z expressed a marked interest in moving into the trades, and that they were more likely to view those jobs positively when compared to corporate roles.