The Six-Figure Jobs Young Americans Are Overlooking (And How to Get One)
If you are a young American deciding on your next career move, you have likely been told that a four-year college degree is the only path to success. However, industry leaders are now speaking out about a massive opportunity hiding in plain sight: the skilled trades.
According to recent insights from the Home Builders Institute (HBI), the U.S. is facing a severe labor shortage that is driving up wages and creating incredible opportunities for the next generation of workers.
Here is why you should consider a career in the trades and how you can land a six-figure salary without a mountain of student debt.
The "Six-Figure" Reality of the Skilled Trades
The stigma around blue-collar work is fading fast as salaries skyrocket. During a recent interview with FOX Business, HBI President and CEO Ed Brady emphasized that these are not just "good jobs"—they are high-paying careers.
"We need to educate our young people. We need to educate parents and educators and legislators that **these are six-figure jobs**," Brady stated. "These are people that are coming out of high school making $30 an hour, have [the] opportunity to own their own business."
For a young person, starting at $30/hour immediately after high school—without the burden of college loans—provides a significant financial head start compared to many traditional degree holders.
Why the Demand is So High
The current shortage isn't just a temporary blip; it is a systemic issue. Currently, there are **300,000 empty jobs** in the trades, ranging from plumbers and electricians to painters and HVAC technicians.
Brady warns that the industry is losing workers faster than it can replace them. "We're losing more than we're bringing into the industry. So this problem is going to be accentuated even before it is improved," he explained.
This shortage is affecting major infrastructure projects, including commercial bridges, roads, and residential homes. Additionally, the boom in AI data centers is pulling skilled labor away from homebuilding, further increasing the demand for new talent in residential construction.
Blue-Collar vs. White-Collar: The Shift
The narrative is changing for Gen Z. While tech and corporate jobs have long been the goal, many young workers are realizing that skilled trades offer stability, fulfillment, and comparable—if not better—pay.
Major companies and public figures are taking notice. General Motors CEO Mary Barra recently called for better messaging around trade careers, noting that these jobs are highly appealing to the younger generation. Major corporations like Bank of America are also investing heavily in workforce development and apprenticeships, signaling a shift in how corporate America values trade skills.
How to Get Started (Without Debt)
If you are ready to explore this path, there are resources available to help you bridge the gap between high school and a career.
Organizations like the HBI are expanding their training efforts, particularly for transitioning service members and veterans. With support from Google.org, HBI is scaling its programs to help individuals earn credentials and enter the industry quickly. In fact, 87% of their transitioning military students were placed into career jobs last year alone.
Steps you can take today:
1. **Look for Apprenticeships:** Many trade unions and companies offer "earn while you learn" models.
2. **Vocational Training:** Explore local trade schools or programs like those offered by HBI.
3. **Change Your Perspective:** Recognize that a trade career offers a direct path to entrepreneurship and financial independence.
As Brady notes, the industry needs to "provide resources and opportunities for our young people." If you are looking for a recession-proof career with high earning potential and low entry barriers, the skilled trades might be your perfect fit.