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Trade Up
By: Claudia Raffay, Director of Marketing & Member Services
Email: craffay@sussexrec.com
These days, so many high school students are dead set on going to college. Even in cases where they don’t have a plan for their degree, a career path in mind, or any concern about paying back their loans, college seems to be the “default.” When I was in school, things were different – many of my friends’ goals pointed them towards the trades, where they found successful careers.
As much as the phrase “when I was in school” bothers me and makes me feel like an old woman, I feel that there is something to be said about how things used to be. I find it regrettable that interest in the trades among students is often not explored as a viable option. Moreso, I find it reprehensible that the option is looked down upon or seen as less important than going on to college.
I attended Newton High School in the late 80s. At that time, it seemed more of my fellow students went onto a trade job than to college. Most of my friends have had successful careers in the trades and, as they get older (as we all do), they are finding it harder and harder to find employees. Successful, respected plumbers, electricians, and HVAC professionals are lamenting about todays’ youth at every deli, bagel shop, and all other places tradesmen congregate across the county — heck, across the whole country!
Not every CEO went to college and no mortarboard or degree guarantees a big bank account. The reality is far less rosy for recent graduates. It turns out that going to college has become more of a rite of passage than a means of finding a career. I know some students who say they want to go onto college but have always hated school. These kids feel they have to do it even if they don’t want to do it.
A multitude of high-paying skilled trade jobs are available in plumbing, electrical, healthcare, IT and more! They not only pay extremely well but are also vital to our communities and are in high demand. For example, electric lineworkers are in need across the nation as more than 50% of current linemen are approaching or are at the age of retirement. The next generation of lineworkers is needed to replace them and fill this critical need. The same goes for the many other professions that keep the world moving day-to-day.
How do we change the narrative? We need to build up the reputation of the trades among our country’s young people. Sussex Vo-Tech and Sussex County Community College do a great job creating programs to help individuals who don’t feel pressured to pursue college just because most of their peers are and instead choose to go confidently into the world of work. But there are still many students who are on the fence, aiming to pursue college even if they don’t feel a deep need to.
How do we stress the importance of the trades as an option? It is up to all of us — parents, community members, teachers, guidance counselors, and coaches. We need to speak about the need and special nature of trades and assure them that these professions are not “lesser” than others that require a college degree. Even if your child wants to become a doctor, they will at some point in their life need a plumber. If any of you have had to call one lately, you know the odds of getting to see a doctor are a lot faster than getting to see a plumber. A shortage of these jobs affects everyone, so it is important for the next generation to understand that these fields are not just lucrative, but essential as well.
Let’s work together to change the narrative. Let’s show kids that there is a choice. If college is not for them, they can TRADE UP! Sussex Rural Electric Cooperative offers two $1,000.00 scholarships to members’ children pursuing a certification or trade education. Visit sussexrec.com/scholarships for more information.
