National Tradesman Day

As a retired tradesman (carpenter/furniture maker) I’ve found it discouraging how few young people are willing to consider taking up the life of a skilled Tradesman as a way of earning a living.

trademan day celebration
From Irwin Tools National Tradesman Day celebration.

Despite the fact that most skilled tradesmen earn more than college graduates, experience less unemployment and do it without the burden of college loan debt, only 6% of highschool students are currently considering going into a trade.  This is partially because more and more high schools are cutting back or eliminating industrial arts classes.

As a result, by the year 2030, 79 million tradesmen will be retiring — and only 41 million new tradesmen will be entering the work force to replace them.  This trend is expected to escalate.  If you think hiring a plumber or auto mechanic is expensive now, wait another decade when there will be 50% fewer people to fill those rolls!

September 20th is National Tradesman Day

Say “thank you” to the tradesmen you know.   If you know young people interested in becoming a tradesman (or tradeswoman) ENCOURAGE them; they’re a vanishing breed!

 

Sources:

  • http://www.manpowergroup.us/campaigns/talent-shortage-2013/
  • http://www.machinerylubrication.com/Read/1813/poll-skilled-trades-rank-low-in-teens%E2%80%99-career-options
  • http://nces.ed.gov/fastfacts/display.asp?id=77
  • http://nces.ed.gov/fastfacts/display.asp?id=77
  • Virginia Manufacturers Assoc. Data
He Whom the Mockingbird Mocks
Wallenius and the Star Cow
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