New Poll Shows Americans Value Skilled Trades but Say They’re Overlooked

August 4, 2025

A new Harris Poll conducted in June 2025 reveals that while 91% of Americans view skilled trades as essential as white-collar jobs, 86% believe these careers are overlooked in the education system. The poll exposes a significant generational divide, with only 38% of Gen Z respondents viewing skilled trades as offering the best job prospects compared to 59% of Baby Boomers. Despite perception issues, most Americans would now recommend trade or vocational school over traditional four-year college education for high school graduates.

Who is affected

American workers and job seekers in skilled trades
High school graduates considering career paths
Gen Z and younger Americans who view trades less favorably
Black Americans who cite lack of visible role models as a barrier
Employers and industries facing skilled labor shortages
Educational institutions that currently overlook skilled trades

What action is being taken

Harris Poll is conducting research and publishing reports about perceptions of skilled trades
Companies that support skilled trades are gaining favorable public opinion
Some corporations are offering hands-on school programs, paid internships, scholarships, and mentorship opportunities
The majority of Americans are recommending vocational or trade school paths over traditional four-year college

Why it matters

91% of Americans consider skilled trades as important as white-collar jobs
86% believe skilled trades are overlooked in today's educational system
90% think most people don't realize how lucrative these careers can be
Only 38% of Gen Z respondents view skilled trades as offering the best job prospects compared to 59% of Baby Boomers
A majority of Americans now recommend trade school over traditional college
Skilled labor shortages are currently disrupting industries
90% of Americans have more favorable opinions of companies that support skilled trades

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint