Degrees vs. Trades
There has been an increase in the education level of each generation. Many parents want their children to have a better life than they had, so you could assume that the increase in education is a push by parents to help their kids build a better life for themselves. There are likely many other reasons behind the increase in education from generation to generation, but whatever the reasons may be, there’s a definite difference. With the increase in education of the generations entering the workforce, though, the job requirements seem to be getting stricter while the salaries seem to go down. This may be due in part to so many qualified candidates now available.
Tradespeople are very important to the economy and hold skills that are difficult to match. Some argue, though, that trades do not offer as broad and encompassing an education as a bachelor’s degree or higher.
While trades and degrees each have value of their own, is one better than the other?
The answer to that question is one that is personal and individual. Education is important, but a college degree may not be for everyone. Here are reasons why learning a trade may be an option for you:
- Opportunity. There are many job opportunities in the trades.
- There’s nothing like working with your hands. If you like to create things and work with your hands, you know exactly what we’re talking about.
- Trades withstand economic downturn. While the need for someone with a very specific and niche degree may go down during difficult economic times, the need for tradespeople doesn’t decrease as significantly because they have skills that most people don’t.
- The learning process isn’t always as long (or expensive) as earning a degree. Going to college can take a lot of time and cost a lot of money, especially nowadays. Learning a trade usually takes only a fraction of the time it takes to earn a degree, costing you less and letting you get started sooner.
- There is a lot of potential and opportunity. There are many companies out there looking to hire tradespeople, but if you want to be your own boss you can! And you don’t have to take on all the risk of starting a business alone. There are many franchise opportunities to help you be your own boss while getting the help and guidance you need.
Degrees and trades both hold a lot of value and are both very important. If you’re interested in getting into a trade like bathroom remodeling, though, and want to start your own business, contact us today.