Source: Fortune
Summary
Mike Rowe, the host of the reality TV show “Dirty Jobs,” has been advocating for the value of skilled trades as an alternative to a four-year college degree. Through his foundation, he awards scholarships to people pursuing careers in the trades. This year, he is doubling the award size to $10 million due to high interest in the program. Rowe believes that AI is driving Gen Z to consider the trades, as white-collar work becomes increasingly automated. Companies like Lowe’s and BlackRock are also investing in skilled trades training. The US has 6.9 million job openings, many of which are in the trades, and Rowe argues that these roles require training rather than a four-year degree.
Our Reading
The numbers tell one story.
Mike Rowe’s foundation is doubling its scholarship award to $10 million. The US has 6.9 million job openings, many in the trades. Companies like Lowe’s and BlackRock are investing in skilled trades training. The unemployment rate for recent college grads is higher than the overall unemployment rate. AI is threatening white-collar work, making the trades a more attractive option.
The skills gap is a tanker that’s hard to turn around.
Author: Evan Null
