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Shifting Career Trends: Gen Z Favors Blue-Collar Work Amid AI Concerns

As the job landscape evolves, a recent survey conducted by ResumeTemplates.com has uncovered a striking trend: a substantial number of Generation Z adults are turning their attention towards blue-collar careers. This shift is predominantly influenced by mounting concerns regarding automation and the potential displacement of jobs due to artificial intelligence (AI). Out of 1,250 Gen Z respondents surveyed, an impressive 60% indicated a likelihood of pursuing careers in the trades within the next year. This is a significant increase from previous expectations, where only 25% anticipated entering blue-collar professions upon high school graduation.

Julia Toothacre, the Chief Career Strategist at ResumeTemplates.com, emphasized the changing motivations behind these career choices. “Many young adults are revisiting the value of traditional higher education, especially when weighed against the prospect of accumulating significant college debt. Instead, they are exploring blue-collar careers that not only promise reasonable income but also offer essential skill development and a sense of job security that is increasingly appealing.”

The Drive for Job Security

The fears of AI encroaching upon traditional jobs loom large for many in this cohort. Among those surveyed, a staggering 80% feel that blue-collar work is more resistant to AI threats compared to office jobs. Other notable factors contributing to this trend include the perception that these roles cannot be offshored (38%) and their relatively higher resistance to economic downturns (32%). Overall, job security emerged as the top motivation for 27% of respondents. Following closely are alignment with personal skills (26%) and attractive earning potential (23%).

Preferred Career Paths in the Trades

Among Gen Z individuals inclined to pursue blue-collar work in 2026, the most popular career choices identified in the survey include:

• - Construction (21%): A traditional backbone of blue-collar work, construction remains a vital field with many job openings as infrastructure projects expand.
• - Electrical Work (10%): With the ongoing demand for skilled electricians, this path offers stability and growth potential.
• - Manufacturing (9%): As factories modernize and adapt to new technologies, the manufacturing sector is seeing a resurgence in qualified technicians.
• - Plumbing (7%): Essential services like plumbing provide reliable job security, making it a sought-after trade.
• - Automotive Repair (6%): With an increasing number of vehicles on the road, skilled automotive technicians are always in high demand.

These trades not only promise stability and decent pay, but they also appeal to the entrepreneurial spirit of many Gen Zers who might aspire to launch their own businesses in these fields. Moreover, blue-collar jobs often afford flexibility, aligning with the values held dear by this generation. However, it is crucial to bear in mind that the physical demands of such work can have long-term implications on health.

Methodology of the Survey

In October 2025, ResumeTemplates.com conducted a comprehensive survey of 1,250 U.S. Gen Z adults through Pollfish. All participants held at least a high school diploma, spanning a diverse range of educational backgrounds: 41% were high school graduates, 20% had some college education, 9% held an associate degree, and 21% had completed a bachelor’s degree. The demographic included a modest representation of advanced degrees, with 4% possessing a master's and 1% a doctorate.

In closing, the results of this survey signify a critical turning point for Gen Z, shaping a new narrative around career choices. As fears of AI continue to resonate throughout the workforce, more young adults are embracing the promise and security of blue-collar careers, potentially paving the way for a robust future in the trades. As the job market continues to evolve, it will be fascinating to observe how these trends unfold in the coming years.