Meet Doug, a millennial who made a life-changing decision during the Great Recession. Instead of pursuing law school as planned, he opted for blue-collar work and never looked back. Worried about the professional repercussions of sharing his last name and current employment, Doug’s story sheds light on the stability and potential of blue-collar careers in a world where artificial intelligence and corporate layoffs are causing anxiety in white-collar industries.
As the bottom fell out of the market during the recession, Doug witnessed the rapid loss of jobs and describes it as a bloodbath. Determined to save money for law school, he had to reconsider his plans. This experience of economic turmoil resonates with workers today who are witnessing the uncertainties of the Great Resignation and the perceived threat of AI takeover. In contrast, blue-collar work stands out as a bright spot in the economic recovery, offering available jobs, affordable training, stability, and high pay. The pandemic has also prompted many individuals to reevaluate their relationship with work, making blue-collar careers even more appealing.
Doug found his new career to be not only financially lucrative compared to his previous hourly work, but he also genuinely enjoyed it. From tinkering with his old Toyota trucks as a teenager, he went on to attend Marine engineering school and become a certified member of the engine department. This opened doors for him in the Coast Guard and enabled him to earn even more money.
Since 2014, Doug has consistently earned a salary in the high five figures or low six figures, benefiting from the union jobs that offer additional perks like benefits and pensions. He proudly owns a home, a rarity among his generation. According to Deloitte’s Gen Z and Millennial Survey, 62% of millennials expect homeownership to become more challenging or even impossible. Doug reflects on his middle-class lifestyle and the comfort he has always enjoyed.
These days, more and more Americans are questioning the value of a college education. With mounting student debt and declining enrollment numbers, the appeal of a career in the trades, like the one Doug pursued, is increasing. Research suggests that a worker without a college degree who is part of a union throughout their career can expect to earn more than their nonunion counterparts with degrees.
Transitioning into blue-collar work required mental adjustment for Doug, but he was drawn to the dignity he observed among tradespeople, especially during the tough times of the Great Recession. They had stability and a certain quality of life that he desired. Law school, on the other hand, seemed less appealing due to the uncertain payout and lack of work-life balance. With blue-collar work, Doug felt a sense of pride in using his hands and being involved in systems that directly impact public safety.
Of course, Doug acknowledges that blue-collar work is not easy. It takes a toll on the body, demands constant skill mastery, and necessitates continuous learning. However, the trade-off is a comfortable retirement with a pension and solid health insurance. Doug had an epiphany when he realized that college and an office job were not the right fit for him. He now values the meaningful work he does and the tangible impact it has on society.
Doug’s story exemplifies the potential and rewards of pursuing blue-collar work, especially in a changing economic landscape. As the world grapples with uncertainties, blue-collar careers offer stability, financial security, and a sense of pride. More individuals may find themselves reconsidering the traditional path of higher education and exploring the possibilities that the trades have to offer.
