Should You Go To College?

Should You Go To College?

The life long question that many young adults ask them selves is: Should You Go To College? And that answer is not so easy to answer. It’s as simple as “yes” or “no”…however there are many other career options that don’t involve college. What are they? Careers in the blue collar world. Becoming a carpenter, plumber, electrician, concrete worker, roofer, welder, etc. These career don’t require any college, but offer a very competitive wage & benefits. You can skip the college debt & time and pursue a career in the skilled trades. 

Navigating Career Choices: College VS Blue Collar

Blue Collar Edu hit the World of Concrete in Las Vegas to ask concrete professionals about their educational paths and opinions on college. The diverse responses shed light on the ongoing debate between pursuing higher education and diving straight into the trades.

Heading To The Trades

Travis George from Tag Concrete Coatings didn’t attend college, emphasizing the need for hands-on work in the trades. He dismisses the idea that college is necessary for everyone, particularly for those inclined towards practical skills. A lot of people have the ability to learn and work better with their hands. That’s where pursing a career in the skilled trades come in to play.

Blue Collar vs. College Push

There is a prevalent push towards college, especially in high schools. There’s an overemphasis on higher education. The skilled trades, often overlooked, are crucial for addressing the current blue-collar shortage. Also, people who work in the blue collar skilled trades are essential folks for the world we live in. 

Trades Schools Are Important

Lee Baker, a concrete floor coatings professional, highlighted the importance of trade schools for hands-on learning. He recommends considering trade schools as a viable option for those unsure about their career paths, emphasizing the practical skills gained. Trade schools often give great exposure and experience to those looking to pursue a skilled trade career. They are usually cheaper & shorter than the traditional college experience. 

Changing Dynamics in the Trades

The dynamics and perspective on pursing a blue collar career is changing. Pursing a skilled trade apprenticeship is rewarding. Developing skills and earning while learning.

Adam Sadowski, with five years in the concrete industry, discouraged pursuing a traditional college route. He believes trades offer a promising future, and trade schools provide valuable hands-on experience. 

Larry, a retired architect, acknowledges the scarcity of skilled tradespeople in America. While recognizing the hard work involved, he suggests a more proactive approach to promote trades as a viable and rewarding career.

Pete Johnson from Valence Protective Coatings stresses the need for keeping apprenticeships alive, emphasizing the importance of trades like coating, electrical, and plumbing. He suggests encouraging high school students to pursue hands-on trades early on.

Rick Musco, the owner of Poor Boy Coatings, shared his journey of dropping out of college in 2008. He reinforces the belief that while certain professions require degrees, trades provide a fulfilling and financially rewarding alternative.

College OR Trades?

College or a skilled trade? There is a diverse range of perspectives, challenging the conventional narrative that a college degree is the only path to success. We encourage younger individuals to consider trade schools and hands-on professions, providing a valuable alternative to traditional higher education. As the blue-collar industry evolves, these insights offer a fresh perspective on career choices for the next generation.

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