(NewsNation) — As the cost of college skyrockets along with student loan debt, Gen Z is turning away from traditional four-year degrees and going into the trades, where lower costs of education can still lead to significant income.
It’s a boon for industries that have suffered shortages as more people in previous generations chose to go to four-year colleges, an option that offers diminishing returns as graduates struggle to find jobs while also paying off student loans.
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In contrast, many trades offer on-the-job training or shorter, less expensive programs and have more jobs available. These occupations may also be more difficult to replace with automation or AI than office jobs.
From health care to construction, here are how education costs and earnings, as reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, stack up for 16 trades.
Plumber
Plumber certification requirements vary by state, but training generally consists of either an apprenticeship that combines classroom work and hands-on education or a vocational program followed by an apprenticeship. The national average cost for a plumbing program is around $3,000, and apprentices often get paid for the hours they work along with an experienced plumber.
The mean wage for plumbers is $67,840 a year.
Pharmacy Technician
Certified pharmacy technicians typically attend a year-long training program and must pass an exam to gain certification. Programs may be online or in person, and the cost can be as low as $400 or up to $4,500.
The mean annual salary for a pharmacy tech is $43,330.
Electrician
States set their own requirements for electricians, but licensing and hours working with an experienced electrician are common standards. Training programs may include certificate programs or associate degrees, which can cost between $1,000 and $12,000. Apprentices may get paid while on the job but can incur costs like having to purchase their own tools.
The mean annual wage for electricians is $67,810, and in high-paying areas, they can earn more than $80,000 per year.
Esthetician
States typically require the completion of a training program that may be done as an apprenticeship or a certification-type training, along with passing a licensing exam. Many states require a high school diploma or GED, but some have educational requirements as low as completing the 8th grade. Training costs can range between $6,000 and $12,000.
The mean annual wage for estheticians is $51,100.
Mechanic
Many states don’t have any requirements for mechanics, and certification programs can range between $6,000 and $20,000 in cost.
The mean annual wage for mechanics is $51,940.
Dental Hygienist
Most states require an associate’s degree for dental hygienists, along with practical training and continuing education. It is possible to get a bachelor’s or master’s degree in the field, but that is not required. The average cost of an associate degree to become a dental hygienist is $22,692.
The mean annual income for a dental hygienist is $89,890.
HVAC Technician
HVAC technicians are licensed by states, so requirements vary, but most include a certification program and an apprenticeship. Costs for programs range between $1,300 and over $5,000.
The mean annual wage for HVAC technicians is $59,620.
Veterinary Technician
Becoming a veterinary technician usually requires an associate’s degree, though some states do have alternative training programs. Vet techs must also pass a credentialing exam in their state.
The mean annual wage for a vet tech is $44,040.
Elevator Installer
Elevator installers and repairers typically learn through an apprentice program, though some states also require licensing. Not only are apprentice programs usually free, but apprentices typically get paid, though at a lower rate than licensed workers.
The mean annual wage for an elevator installer is $100,060.
Licensed Practical Nurse
Becoming an LPN requires a training course, typically a year long, followed by a licensing exam. Programs typically cost between $12,000 and $15,000.
The mean annual salary is $60,790.
Landscaper
Those interested in landscaping can enter the field through entry-level positions that generally don’t have any specific requirements, with no costs associated, or get a degree in a related field.
The mean annual wage for landscapers is $39,790.
Early Childcare Worker
Requirements for those working in daycare or preschool vary by state. Many states only require a high school diploma or GED, while a few require bachelor’s degrees. There is usually a minimum age requirement, and workers generally have to pass a background check.
The mean annual salary for a childcare worker is $32,070.
Massage Therapist
Most states have a licensing requirement for massage therapists, which usually includes a certificate program or associate’s degree. Program costs can range from $5,000 to $30,000.
The mean annual salary for a massage therapist is $62,560.
Phlebotomist
To become a phlebotomist, you have to have a high school diploma or equivalent and must complete a training program that usually takes less than a year. Training costs range from $700 to $2,500.
The mean annual salary for a phlebotomist is $43,130.
EMT/Paramedic
Training to become an EMT can take less than a year, while paramedic training can take up to three years. Both fields require a certification exam. Costs can range from $1,000 to $15,000, with EMT courses costing less than paramedic training.
The mean annual salary for an EMT is $43,100, and the mean annual salary for paramedics is $57,450.
Home Inspector
Most states require home inspectors to complete a certificate course, and in most cases, it’s not necessary to have a high school diploma to enroll. A few states don’t have any regulatory requirements at all. Programs usually cost between $600 and $2,000.
The mean annual salary for inspectors is $72,880.
