Are trade jobs recession proof in today's economy?

With the current shifts in the economy, I'm worried about job security post-high school. Are trade jobs known to be recession proof? How do they fare during economic downturns compared to college-educated professions?

While no job can be considered completely "recession-proof," it's true that some trade jobs tend to fare better during economic downturns compared to others. When it comes to trade jobs, many fields, especially those involved with essential services like electricians, plumbers, HVAC technicians, and healthcare professionals, can be relatively more secure during a recession. This is in part due to the consistent demand for these services, regardless of the economic climate.

On the flip side, trade jobs in fields that are highly dependent on the economy, like construction or certain manufacturing roles, might see downturns during a recession due to reduced demand.

When comparing trade jobs to college-educated professions, it's essential to understand that the impact of a recession can vary widely depending on the industry, the job role, and many other factors. For instance, jobs in finance, real estate, and non-essential industries are often hit hard during economic downturns, while jobs in education, healthcare, and public service can be more stable.

The key takeaway, however, isn't necessarily about choosing between a trade job and a college education. It's about considering your interests and career goals, obtaining the relevant skills, and ideally positioning yourself in an industry that aligns with market trends and economic stability.

One more thing to remember is that even in 'recession-proof' industries, employees with the most skills and experience are often the most insulated during an economic downturn, which reminds us of the importance of continual learning and skill advancement, whether you're in a trade or a college-educated profession.