Gen Z Shuns Traditional College Path, Sees Value in Trades Over Four-Year Degrees

As more young people rethink their career paths, a growing number are opting for careers in trades over traditional four-year college degrees. This shift is particularly evident among Gen Z, who are increasingly turning to vocational training for jobs in fields like construction, auto mechanics, and cosmetology.

At Tricoci University, a beauty school with multiple campuses across the Midwest, a first-ever beauty camp took place aimed at introducing high school students and recent graduates to various career paths in the industry early on. 18-year-old Rei Kuang, who is interested in the beauty industry, attended the camp.

“I've always thought that going to a trade school has always been an option for me,” said Kuang, who is considering attending Tricoci University. “I have always loved art and anything that I can get my hands dirty in. So being able to translate that like putting makeup on and doing your nails, anything that's what I like to do.”

Madeline Foster, a 20-year-old student at Tricoci University, emphasized the importance of recognizing alternative paths. “I think it's important for my generation to really understand we don't have to be traditional, and we don't have to go the traditional route,” she said.

Data from the National Student Clearinghouse shows a 16% increase in enrollment in trade schools last year, marking the highest rise since the organization began tracking enrollment data in 2018. “This generation, they're looking for something that's career-ready. They're questioning that investment of a four-year university,” said Larry Foster, the Chief Operating Officer of Tricoci University.

The beauty school responded to the shift by hosting beauty camps aimed at providing high school students and recent graduates with early exposure to career opportunities in the six billion dollar beauty industry. During these camps, participants gain hands-on experience in different aspects of the beauty world, such as hair and makeup techniques.

“We're really short-staffed in the beauty industry. This gives them an all-immersive experience into what they can do in the real world,” said Foster. He believes early exposure could help fill much needed gaps in the booming industry.