New research from Draper Tools confirms that the construction sector is in the midst of a generational shift. With interest in trade apprenticeships growing and Gen Z starting to favour hands-on careers over traditional university debt.
The survey of 2,000 adults under 28 years of age found that almost half of young people see becoming a tradesperson as a quicker way to earn £100,000 than going to university.
Of the respondents, 53% believe they will buy a home quicker if they become a tradie rather than going to university. Just 15% think higher education will help them get on the property ladder quicker than doing an apprenticeship.
The survey also shows 34% have considered moving industries to become a tradesperson – 46% of men and 28% of women.
The findings point towards a new emerging market of younger tradespeople and apprentices with different priorities and motivations.
Sarah Hartland, Head of Marketing at Draper Tools, commented: “We wanted to understand young people’s motivations and find out what the next generation of tradespeople really think. With such critical skill shortages reported across many sectors, this new interest from young people could turn out to be very significant for the future of the UK construction sector. This is why we feel it’s important to really provide the right support for the new generation entering the trade.”
The Draper study found 61% of young people think working in a trade is a “cool job” – with 55% saying their perception of being a tradesperson is more positive than five years ago. A third of young people also felt that working in a trade is something to be proud of.
Social media influencers and TV shows were cited as one of the reasons behind the increased appeal of working in the trade. 55% believe working within a trade is better for personal mental health than working from a desk. And just over a quarter think tradespeople have more fun on the job than office workers.
The most common trades people would join if they were to move industries are painting and decorating (32%), electrical (20%) and landscaping (20%).
The respondents' main reasons for choosing a trade over university are higher earning potential (35%), avoiding student debt (34%) and an ability to start earning sooner (32%). However, it’s not just about money: 35% like to learn practical skills, 33% believe there’s a better work-life balance, and 26% enjoy a sense of pride in creating or fixing something.
Worries about AI are another factor for young people to look at other career prospects, with a third saying recent advances in AI have made them consider a career in the trade.
With young people calling for good quality but affordable power tools, the Draper study also explored what young people are most likely consider when it comes to purchasing tools.
What’s most important to young tool buyers?
