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In recent history, our society seems to have experienced a cultural shift where our newer generations feel they would be in better suited for the future if they choose a career that required a university degree – namely doctors, accountants, or lawyers. Essentially, they are setting aside 3+ years of their lives, amassing astounding amounts of debt, simply to obtain white-collar work that can be deemed as a ‘profession’, rather than ‘just a job’.
The result? An oversaturation of workers in these competitive white-collar industries, and a nationwide shortage of skilled trade workers in the midst of a construction boom. In this blog, we explore why our current beliefs might not be the best for our children, and why now is the perfect time to consider becoming a tradie.
Tradie Shortage
Every year, thousands of tradies across the country either relocate, transition into new industries, or retire. To keep up with the demand placed on the industries by our growing population, there needs to be a constant stream of new entrants following them. According to recent statistics, however, apprenticeship numbers are dropping by 5.6%, due to more and more kids leaving high school, listening to their parents, and obtaining a university degree.
Every year, thousands of tradies across the country either relocate, transition into new industries, or retire. In order to keep up with the demand placed on the industries by our growing population, there needs to be a constant stream of new entrants following them.
Tweet ThisUnfortunately, what they are finding is that this increase in applicants for white-collar jobs isn’t met with the same demands from society, and they must vehemently compete for work, often taking unpaid positions merely to find a foot in the door. In comparison, the fewer apprentices who are joining the lagging trade industries are lapping up the excess work – with the impressive salaries to match.
Lucrative Pay
Regardless of the particular trade industry one chooses to enter, plenty of skill and training is still involved in order to complete the task. If truth be told, they are often demanding jobs most people would not choose to perform. Until they knew how much these tradies were earning, that is.
The perception that tradies are mucking around in the dirt for abysmal pay is outdated. Thanks to the high demand, the average tradie earns roughly $60.88 an hour, with some even raking in as much as the high $90’s. That alone is enough to rival the average doctors’ and lawyers’ earnings in the game. As is understood in the most basic economics: demand always wins.
“Do you like building or fixing things? Are looking for a way to fast-track your career and have no interest in a four-year degree program? If this sounds like you, then maybe you should consider a tradie” – Kick-Start Your Career
Greater Potential
Most professions that require university degrees come with specific characteristics that are determined by geographical rules, standards, and legislation. The job performed in one state of Australia, for example, may need to be performed differently in another. This means many will find it difficult to relocate and walk into similar roles around the country or wider world without extensive re-training.
It is true tradies are also governed by specific rules dependant on geographical borders, yet it is far easier to gain qualifications and licensing both interstate and throughout the world, thanks to recognition of prior learning programs and similar universal practises. In addition, the longer someone spends in their trade, the more benefits will be presented to them, whether it is international travel, running their own business, or simply being more selective with clients.
Take Advantage of the Opportunities Available
With Australia and the wider world positioned as it is for the newer generations just about to enter the workforce, it is important to be practical about what is the best profession to align with your talents and goals for the future. Never before has there been this much uncertainty about obtaining a university degree, nor the opportunities available in becoming tradie. Now might be the perfect time to make a change.
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