Industry Trends - Skilled trade jobs are gaining popularity among Gen Z due to stability and avoiding major debt [2] - Social media significantly influences Gen Z's interest in trade jobs, surpassing teachers, siblings, and extended family [9][10] - Trade school enrollment is rising as Gen Z seeks job security and essential roles, influenced by concerns about traditional college costs and AI threats [4][5] Labor Market Dynamics - There is a high demand for skilled workers, with millions of unfilled trade jobs [6] - The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates roughly 500,000 open manufacturing jobs [6] - Some estimates project unfilled trade jobs to exceed 2 million by 2033 [6] Impact of Technology - Experts believe AI could benefit the trades by automating undesirable tasks [8] Gen Z Perspective - Gen Z desires hands-on work and avoids office or cubicle environments [7] - Gen Z uses social media to inspire others to pursue trade careers and demonstrate the potential for a good living without a college degree [3][10] - The number of people ages 17 to 21 with two-year vocational degrees has doubled since 2000, reaching its highest level in over three decades [5]