Are trade jobs the future of work?

I've been hearing a lot about how trade jobs might be the future of the job market as automation increases. Can anyone share their thoughts or experiences with this? Especially those who’ve chosen the trade path after high school.

Trade jobs, often referred to as 'skilled trades', certainly carry value in an expanding and evolving job market. These jobs are roles that require a specialized body of knowledge, skill, or ability, which can usually be obtained through a vocational school, apprenticeship, or direct on-the-job training instead of a traditional four-year college.

In many parts of the world, skilled trade jobs are in high demand due to a generational gap in the trades. As older professionals retire and demand for specialized services continues to increase, there are plenty of opportunities for new professionals to enter these fields. So, in a sense, you could say that the future of the job market does involve an increase in demand for skilled trades, although it’s important to mention that this is not new but rather a continuing development.

However, like other fields, the trade industry is not shielded from changes due to automation. However, many trade jobs involve tasks that currently can't be automated or replaced by robots, such as plumbing, electrical work, or complex machine repair. Trades often require a human touch, understanding, and adaptability, which are currently hard to replicate through automation.

When it comes to choosing a career path, it often comes down to individual interests, strengths, and goals. Trade jobs can offer a viable and valuable career path that could be a great fit for some, just like a four-year college might be a better fit for others. It's essential to understand your own preferences and research various fields before deciding.

For example, someone who loves practical, hands-on work, can envision themselves being comfortable in varied work environments, and has a keen interest in a specific trade, may find a vocational path to be deeply satisfying and profitable. On the other hand, someone drawn to more academic pursuits has a robust interest in theory or wishes to join fields that mandate a degree would likely find four-year colleges to be a better fit.

In conclusion, while it's viable to claim that trade jobs have a substantial future, it's also important to consider that market demand varies widely by region, skill, and time. As such, it's essential to conduct research and consider all the potential options before determining a career path.