Why Are Graduates Turning to Trades?

In today’s society, where many people see a university degree as the only route to success, a shift is taking place. An increasing number of university graduates are putting down their textbooks and picking up tools, shifting their attention to the skilled trades. But why?

Let’s break down the key reasons why graduates are turning to the trades.

Job Security & Demand

There is a skilled labour shortage in the UK trades – as older tradespeople retire, there’s just not enough young workers stepping in to replace them. So, while university graduates spend months searching for jobs that could let them go at the drop of a hat, tradespeople are turning down jobs because they are so busy.

Plus, as AI automation takes the world by storm, skilled tradespeople have a career that is future-proof. No AI will be able to replicate the hands-on skills, adaptability and problem-solving quite like a skilled tradesperson, which is why these hands-on trade roles offer great job security and are far less susceptible to automation.

Better Earnings

Many graduates leave their four year university course with thousands of pounds worth of debt, only to be faced with a massively over-saturated job market where you have to fight to get entry-level positions, earning barely more than minimum wage.

At many trade centres  – including us at Access Training – you can start earning while you learn! Not only that, but trade jobs like electricians, plumbers and HVAC technicians can start at over £40,000 per year, with experienced professionals earning six figures in many regions. So by choosing a trade, you can start earning great money and find a lifelong career straight out of the gate!

Entrepreneurial Opportunities

Another key reason why many graduates are turning to the trades is the growing entrepreneurial opportunities. Within just a few years of starting your trade course, you can launch your own business, set your own schedule and be your own boss. This is a stark difference from the usual life of a university graduate, who can spend years climbing the corporate ladder, often with little control over their work life.

Career Satisfaction

Many graduates find that after years of studying and sitting behind a desk, they’re craving more tangible, meaningful work. The trades allow you to see the fruits of your labour in real time, providing a great sense of accomplishment and satisfaction.

Unlike repetitive office work, working in the trades can be different every day, one day you might be helping an elderly person with a water leak and the next you could be rewiring an entire block of flats. For many people, helping out in their community and making someone’s day easier is far more rewarding that any corporate spreadsheet could be.

As the job market evolves and the cost of university degrees continues to rise, more and more graduates are starting to rethink their ideas of success. For many, success is no longer working long hours in an office wearing a suit and tie, but instead, earning a solid pay check and working a career built on skill and independence that makes a real difference in their community.

Are you thinking of making the switch? Check out the trade courses we offer at Access Training using the button below.

Browse Trade Courses

If you have any questions about how to get started or which trade is best for you, contact Access Training today and one of our friendly course advisors will be more than happy to help!