A significant shift in career aspirations is underway among the youngest generation in the workforce. A new survey from ResumeTemplates.com reveals that a growing number of Gen Z adults are now likely to pursue blue-collar careers over traditional white-collar roles. This trend is largely driven by fears of AI-related job displacement and a strong desire for long-term job security. The data shows a sharp increase in interest, with three in five Gen Zers now considering work in the trades for 2026, a substantial jump from the 25% who envisioned this path when they graduated high school.
Quick Intel
A new survey finds 60% of Gen Z is likely to pursue blue-collar work in 2026.
AI-related job loss fears are a primary driver, with 80% citing it for career security.
Interest in trades has sharply risen from just 25% during their high school years.
Top motivators are job security, skills alignment, and high earning potential.
The most popular trades are construction, electrical work, and manufacturing.
Experts note these roles are seen as AI-proof, recession-resistant, and non-offshorable.
The survey data highlights a clear link between the rise of artificial intelligence and career choices. Among Gen Zers who view blue-collar jobs as more secure, an overwhelming 80% cite AI-proofing as the primary reason. Additional factors making trades appealing include the fact that these roles cannot be offshored (38%) and are perceived as more recession-resistant (32%). Overall, job security (27%) is the top motivator, followed by alignment with personal skills (26%) and high earning potential (23%).
For those likely to enter the trades, the most common career goals are in construction (21%), electrical work (10%), and manufacturing (9%). Other popular paths include plumbing (7%) and automotive repair (6%). These fields are attractive as they offer clear training pathways, good pay, and for entrepreneurial individuals, the potential to own a business. The trend reflects a generational reevaluation of the value of a college degree versus the immediate benefits of skilled labor in an uncertain economic and technological landscape.
This generational pivot towards the trades signals a profound change in the future of work. As AI continues to transform white-collar industries, blue-collar roles are being re-evaluated for their stability and tangible outcomes. This shift could help address the growing skilled labor gap as older generations retire, ensuring these critical fields have a new pipeline of motivated and tech-aware workers.
ResumeTemplates.com offers a comprehensive selection of free, industry-specific resume templates, tailored to meet the needs of various job seekers. The website also provides expert advice, resume examples, and resources to support every step of the job application process.
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