Hey, Gen Z! Let’s dive into something that may have been on your mind lately – why are some of you shrugging off the typical college route? Well, it turns out that Millennials have degrees coming out of their ears (thanks to those Baby Boomer parents with dreams of a better life), but many of you are embracing a sea of DIY knowledge, learning everything from YouTube. Sure, maybe you’re the generation with the fewest diplomas, but knowledge isn’t all about that piece of paper, right? Unfortunately, not having that “formal education” stamp of approval can make landing a good job harder than chewing on a lawbreaker. That’s where skilled trades come in.

The Monkey-See-Monkey-Do Generation

Let’s take a closer look at your generation, the “show me first, then I’ll show you” crew. From TikTok dances to DIY skincare, if it’s not on the screen, does it even exist? But what if you had toy tools instead of toy iPhones as kids? Maybe you’d be hammering and sawing your way into trades with more gusto. After all, it’s all about exposure. Time to break out of the box and think beyond the WiFi signal.

The trades offer so much opportunity and the chance to work with your hands. And do you know how much these jobs pay to start and finish in Ontario? Without that information, you may not understand what lies ahead and could be missing out on incredible opportunities. It’s time to know the real deal and see the gold at the end of the trade rainbow. Plus, once you’ve got the skills, you can’t be outsourced or replaced by a robot. Talk about job security!

The Hidden Gem of Opportunity in Trades

We’re talking electricians, plumbers, welders – the unsung heroes of civilization. These jobs offer stability, growth, and the chance to build something tangible. But here’s the catch – most people don’t realize how much they can make.

So, let’s break it down. In Ontario, the top 5 highest paying trades of 2023 were Truck drivers, plumbers, welders, electricians, and Industrial mechanics. Each of these professions boasts an average annual salary of over $80,000, and these are just a few examples. So, if you’re curious about what else is out there, it’s time to start exploring.

Weathering Storms and Scaring Wallets

Gen Z, you’ve had a rocky ride – first a recession, then a pandemic. It’s almost like the universe had a “survival of the fittest” theme going. Now, throwing cash at school feels riskier than trying your grandma’s mystery casserole. Who wants to be buried in debt with a side of uncertainty, anyway? It’s understandable to be scared to spend money on school if you’re not sure you’ll ever make it back.

But the trades offer a different path. The skills you learn can be put into practice almost immediately, and with apprenticeships and on-the-job training, you get paid to learn. Plus, you can keep earning while avoiding the crushing debt that comes with traditional education. Sounds pretty good, right? It’s time to embrace this alternative path.

Embracing a New Path

It’s not just about work – it’s about carving out a legacy with your bare hands. So, toss aside the fear and grab that toolbox. The journey might have bumps and detours, but trust me, the view from the top is worth every nail you’ve hit. It’s time to champion your potential, rewrite the rulebook, and let those trade skills shine like diamonds in the rough.

1. Do your research: Explore the various trades and find one that aligns with your interests and strengths. Take the time to learn about different apprenticeship programs and vocational schools.
2. Network, network, network: Build connections within the trade industry. Attend trade shows, join online communities, and seek out mentors who can guide you along the way.
3. Embrace continuous learning: The trades are constantly evolving. Stay on top of new technologies and techniques by pursuing additional certifications or attending workshops.
4. Emphasize your soft skills: Communication, problem-solving, and teamwork are essential in any career. Highlight these skills on your resume and during job interviews to stand out from the crowd.
5. REACH OUT TO US! Finding a good agency that you feel like you can trust is valuable. The HR professionals who work in agencies are gifted with the joy of helping you find the job that you need. Come talk with us, and let us support you in your journey.

Let Us Help You Take the First Step Into Skilled Trades

When you take the trade path, you’re not just filling a skills gap or breaking the stigma around blue-collar work. You’re also setting an example for others, showing that there’s more to success than a degree on the wall. You’re proving that hard work, persistence, and determination can lead to a fulfilling career and a happy life. So, let’s rewrite the future together and embrace the trades.