The Big Decision: College vs. Skilled Trades
Part # 1
Of our College vs. Trades Series.
Itâs the question looming over many kitchen table conversations:
Should my child go to college, or should they explore a skilled trade?
Letâs face itâthis is one of your family's most significant decisions, and the pressure can be intense. You want whatâs best for your child, but the path forward isnât always clear.
Hereâs the good news: Youâre not alone in this journey, and weâre here to help you confidently unpack the options.
The College vs. Skilled Trades Debate
For decades, society has favored the idea that a four-year college degree is the ultimate key to success. But the reality is that times are changing.
Consider this:
⢠Average College Debt: In 2023, the average student loan debt for a four-year degree in the U.S. was $37,000.
⢠Skilled Trades Training: Trade school tuition often costs less than $10,000, and programs take a fraction of the time to complete.
Now think about earnings:
⢠According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), electricians, plumbers, and HVAC technicians often earn $60,000â$80,000 annuallyâwithout the debt.
For some students, skilled trades offer a faster, more affordable route to financial independence.
Success Comes in Many Forms
Itâs important to redefine what âsuccessâ looks like. A skilled trade career isnât a fallback option; itâs a viable, respected, and lucrative path.
⢠Skilled Trades Are in Demand: The U.S. faces a massive shortage of trade workers. According to the Associated General Contractors of America, 78% of construction firms report difficulty finding skilled labor.
Thatâs job security your child can bank on!
⢠Technology Meets Hands-On Work: Todayâs trades involve cutting-edge tech. Think robotics in welding, smart systems in HVAC, or renewable energy installations for electricians.
This Decision is About YOUR Child
Every student is different, and thatâs a good thing! Some thrive in lecture halls; others in hands-on, problem-solving environments.
Ask yourself:
⢠Does my child enjoy building, fixing, or creating?
⢠Are they curious about how things work?
⢠Do they prefer practical learning over theoretical study?
If you answered yes to any of these, a skilled trade might be the perfect fit.
Letâs Change the Conversation
The decision between college and skilled trades shouldnât be about one being âbetterâ than the other. Itâs about finding the right path for your childâs strengths, interests, and future goals.
This week, take a moment to talk with your child about what excites them. Keep the conversation open and judgment-freeâyou might be surprised by what you learn!
Want More Insights?
Next week, weâll tackle the biggest myths about skilled trades and show why this path is more than just a âPlan B.â
Until then, stay curious and confident in guiding your child toward a bright future.
Best regards,
Martin P. King
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