Welcome back to Workbench Weekly! This week, we’re getting into the hot debate: is college still worth it, or should more folks pick up a trade and start building their future debt-free?
For years, society has pushed the idea that a college degree is the ultimate key to success. But what if that belief is not just outdated—it’s completely wrong? With skyrocketing student debt and an oversaturated job market, more people are questioning the value of a diploma. Meanwhile, skilled trades are offering high pay, job security, and zero debt.
This debate isn’t just about careers—it’s about shattering the illusion of success that college has built for decades. Let’s dive in.
The College Myth: A Flawed Promise
College degrees were once seen as a guarantee of financial success, but for many, they’ve become a trap. Graduates are drowning in debt, often earning little more than their non-degreed peers in service or retail jobs.
One frustrated graduate shared:
“Two bachelor’s degrees and a master’s later, and sometimes I wish I’d gone the trade route. The debt and lack of hands-on experience just aren’t worth it.”
Another brutally called out the reality for many college grads:
“I’ve met tons of service workers who regret spending $80K to get a degree in oyster gender studies.”
The message is clear: the wrong degree can leave you broke and aimless, with nothing to show for it but debt.
Trades: The Smart, Underrated Path
While college graduates are struggling to find work, skilled tradespeople are thriving. Industries like plumbing, HVAC, welding, and electrical work are desperate for workers, with pay that rivals or exceeds many office jobs.
As one tradesman explained:
“I started at $16/hour as a trainee. Now, five years later, I’m making $34/hour, and my job is 90% sitting around watching TV because the work is so easy. No degree, no debt.”
Another was even more blunt:
“If you’re thinking about a trade, do it. Four years of experience in a trade beats four years of a ‘communications degree’ every time.”
The Physical Work Debate: Worth It or Not?
One common argument against trades is the physical toll they take on the body. But many tradespeople believe the financial freedom and job satisfaction make it worthwhile.
One HVAC worker didn’t hold back:
“You’ll see the miserable, unhealthy old men in the shop who didn’t plan ahead. The trick is to get the money, get the skills, and then get out before it wears you down.”
Others argued that the physical aspect is overhyped:
“Electricians don’t crawl through the mud like plumbers. It’s clean, good-paying work, and the skills are transferable anywhere.”
Breaking the Cycle: A New Definition of Success
The real problem isn’t just the cost of college or the hard work of trades—it’s how we’ve been conditioned to view success. Society glorifies white-collar office jobs while dismissing trades as a backup plan.
One person captured this perfectly:
“People get stuck thinking success looks like a college degree and a desk job. But that’s not the only way. Trades build the world, and they pay well to do it.”
Another added:
“The random bachelor’s degree is basically a seal of approval that you’re not dumb. It doesn’t mean you’re smart or skilled. Trades give you real value.”
What Do You Think?
This isn’t just a debate about jobs—it’s about challenging the outdated narrative that college is the only path to success.
Is college still worth the debt and time in today’s economy?
Are trades the future of work?
How do we redefine what success looks like for the next generation?
Let’s hear your take. Share your thoughts, stories, and opinions below. This isn’t just a conversation about careers—it’s about reshaping how we view work, value, and success.
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