The College vs. Skilled Trade Debate:
Where Should Your Child Go?
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As a parent, helping your teenager decide what to do after high school is a big deal. It’s emotional, overwhelming, and full of unknowns.
College seems like the traditional “safe” choice, but with rising tuition costs and staggering debt, it’s not a perfect fit for every student.
On the flip side, skilled trades—careers like electricians, plumbers, HVAC technicians, and welders—are booming in demand and often overlooked.
So, how do you figure out the best path for your child? Here’s a breakdown to help you start the conversation.
College: The Good, the Bad, and the Debt
The Good:
• College can open doors to specialized careers like engineering, medicine, and law.
• It offers personal growth opportunities and exposure to a variety of fields.
• Many parents see it as a badge of success—but remember, this decision is about what’s best for your child.
The Not-So-Good:
• 40% of college students drop out before earning their degree, often leaving with significant debt and no career path.
• The average student loan debt in the U.S. is $37,000—and it can take decades to pay off.
• Many graduates struggle to find jobs, leaving them underemployed.
Skilled Trades: High Demand, High Reward - Let’s talk trades.
Why Trades Are Worth a Closer Look
- The U.S. is facing a massive shortage of skilled trade workers, which means there will be plenty of job openings for years to come.
- Careers like HVAC technicians, welders, and electricians offer salaries from $50,000 to $70,000, often with little to no debt.
- MANY skilled trades are paying well into the SIX FIGURES in as little as five years.
- Skilled trades focus on hands-on work, making them perfect for teens who love solving real-world problems.
Room to Grow
- Many trade professionals move up to leadership roles or even start their own businesses, earning six figures or more.
- Trade certifications take months (not years), getting your teen into a rewarding career faster.
What’s the Right Fit for Your Teen?
The decision ultimately comes down to your child’s strengths, interests, and goals.
Ask these questions:
- Does your child enjoy working with their hands and solving practical problems?
- Do they thrive in traditional academic environments, or do they prefer learning by doing?
- What kind of lifestyle do they envision—steady work, flexibility, entrepreneurship?
Take Action: Start the Conversation
Here’s a simple step to get started:
Download this FREE worksheet: “What Are My Child’s Strengths and Interests?”
[Click Here to Download]
Take 10–15 minutes to discuss it with your teen. Their answers might surprise you and give both of you more clarity about the next steps.
Let’s Keep the Conversation Going
This is just the beginning of our journey together. Over the next few weeks, we’ll cover topics like:
- How to overcome the stigma around skilled trades
- What parents need to know about college costs and trade school opportunities
- Inspiring stories of teens who found success off the beaten path
We Want to Hear From You!
What worries you most about helping your child decide between college and skilled trades?
Share your thoughts in the comments below—I’ll personally respond to as many as I can.
Together, we’ll find the best path for your teen’s success!
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