Skilled Trades: The backbone of Our World!
- FREE Download OFFERED BELOW
Do you find yourself questioning the future of your teen?
College has long been the default answer. But what if the skilled trades offer an equally—if not more—rewarding path? It’s time to tackle the stigma that often clouds these careers and uncover the incredible potential they hold.
Why Does Stigma Exist?
Society often paints skilled trades as "less than." Terms like "blue-collar" are thrown around, carrying unfair assumptions about income, intelligence, or success. For many parents, this creates fears about their child’s future:
- Will they have job security?
- Will they earn enough to support a family?
- Will they be proud of their career?
But these concerns aren’t grounded in reality. Skilled trades are evolving, offering exciting opportunities in industries critical to modern life, from healthcare to renewable energy.
Prestige in the Trades: Changing the Narrative
Did you know skilled tradespeople are essential to our infrastructure? Without HVAC technicians, electricians, plumbers, and welders, our homes, hospitals, and businesses would grind to a halt.
Fast Fact: The average electrician in the U.S. earns $90,040 annually, and with specialized skills or entrepreneurship, that figure can easily double.
These careers are lucrative and fulfilling. Tradespeople don’t just punch a clock—they solve real-world problems, build tangible solutions, and create lasting impact.
Take pride: Every skyscraper, cooling system, and electrical grid tells a story of hard work and innovation.
The Story of Transformation: Meet Tony
Tony graduated from high school, unsure about his next steps. College didn’t feel like the right fit, and pressure from his peers to pursue a degree weighed heavily on him.
After a brief apprenticeship with a local plumber, Tony realized his passion for working with his hands and solving problems. Fast-forward 10 years: Tony owns a successful plumbing business, employs an an eight-person team, and mentors young apprentices.
“People doubted me when I chose the trades,” Tony says, “but now I’m living proof that you can build a life and a legacy doing something you love.”
Starting the Conversation: A Guide for Parents
Open communication is key. Here’s how to navigate this sensitive topic with your child:
- Ask Open-Ended Questions:
- “What excites you about your future career?”
- “How do you feel about exploring a trade as an option?”
- Share Success Stories:
Highlight examples of thriving tradespeople who have built meaningful careers. - Do the Research Together:
Explore apprenticeship programs, certifications, and job prospects to understand what’s possible.
Focus on Passion, Not Perception:
Encourage your teen to pursue what truly interests them rather than bowing to societal pressure.
Download this FREE worksheet:
“What Are My Child’s Strengths and Interests?”
[Click Here to Download]
Take 10–15 minutes to discuss it with your teen. Their answers might surprise you and give you more clarity about the next steps.
Let’s Keep the Conversation Going
This is just the beginning of our journey together. Over the next few weeks, we’ll cover topics like:
- How to overcome the stigma around skilled trades
- What parents need to know about college costs and trade school opportunities
- Inspiring stories of teens who found success off the beaten path
We Want to Hear From You!
What worries you most about helping your child decide between college and skilled trades?
Share your thoughts in the comments below—I’ll personally respond to as many as possible.
Together, we’ll find the best path for your teen’s success!
Responses