With college debt soaring and becoming a major issue today, many Gen-Z’ers are attracted to the trades as an alternative and as an immediate entrance to a rewarding and well-paying job. National Careers in Trades Week, which is celebrated April 7th - April 11th, is a nationwide initiative to connect students with rewarding and lucrative jobs in the skilled trades.
The goal is to help fill thousands of positions that are essential to the country’s economic growth, and to share the technological advancements in fields such as AI, drones, and laser welding, which are helping to redefine what it means to work in a skilled trade. Aaron Hilger, CEO of the non-profit Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractors’ National Association, discusses the benefits of working in trades.