Why over half of US office workers are considering a switch to skilled trades

Time of India

2 days ago

Burnout and AI fears drive US white-collar workers toward blue-collar careers. (AI Image)
A growing number of office workers in the US are rethinking their career paths, with more than half now considering switching to skilled trades. This surprising trend highlights a shift in how workers view traditional white-collar jobs, as burnout, job insecurity, and the rise of artificial intelligence prompt many to seek more fulfilling and stable employment.
For decades, a college education was seen as the key to landing a well-paying, secure job. However, that promise no longer holds true for many Americans. Despite spending thousands of dollars on higher education, numerous white-collar workers find themselves underpaid, overworked, or even unemployed. According to a recent survey by TRADESAFE, 55% of US office employees are seriously contemplating leaving their current roles in favor of blue-collar jobs.
Burnout and job insecurity fuel the desire for change
One of the main reasons for this career reconsideration is burnout. TRADESAFE's survey found that 57% of white-collar workers in the US report feeling burned out or highly stressed. Another study by Moodle, conducted through Censuswide, reveals an even higher burnout rate of 66% among American employees. The heavy workload, routine tasks, and excessive administrative red tape contribute to this widespread dissatisfaction.
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Many workers also feel their current jobs lack meaning or purpose. As reported by the Your Tango, about one-third of white-collar employees say their work feels unfulfilling and that much of their day is spent 'pretending to be busy.' Despite this dissatisfaction, 45% admit feeling social pressure to stay in their current careers, with 68% of Gen Z workers feeling the strongest pressure. Financial stability and lack of skills for trade jobs are among the top reasons people remain in white-collar roles.
Adding to these challenges is the growing influence of artificial intelligence. Over half of Americans fear losing their jobs to AI, and 61% of Gen Z white-collar workers feel vulnerable to automation. Resumes are increasingly screened by algorithms, and many entry-level office positions are disappearing. In contrast, skilled trades such as plumbing, carpentry, and electrical work remain less susceptible to automation, making them more appealing to workers worried about job security.
Key statistics driving US white-collar workers toward skilled trades
Topic
Statistic / Insight
Source
Percentage of white-collar workers considering switch to skilled trades
55%
TRADESAFE survey
Burnout rate among white-collar workers in the US
57%
TRADESAFE survey
Burnout rate among all US employees
66%
Moodle/Censuswide
Gen Z white-collar workers considering switching
59%
TRADESAFE survey
Gen Z white-collar workers feeling vulnerable to AI
61%
TRADESAFE survey
Percentage of white-collar workers feeling social pressure to stay
45% (68% for Gen Z)
TRADESAFE survey
Percentage of white-collar workers finding their jobs unfulfilling
33%
TRADESAFE survey
Percentage of Americans feeling envious of skilled trades
50%
TRADESAFE survey
Percentage who believe society values trades more now
68%
TRADESAFE survey
Satisfaction among blue-collar workers
43% very/extremely satisfied
Pew Research
Blue-collar workers dissatisfied with pay
33%
Pew Research
Changing perceptions and the allure of skilled trades
The perception of blue-collar work has evolved significantly. Once stigmatized, skilled trades are now viewed as respectable and valuable careers. Fifty percent of Americans surveyed admitted feeling envious of those working in trade jobs, and 68% believe society is starting to value hands-on work more than office roles.
Many white-collar workers appreciate the physical activity, job security, and clear purpose associated with trades.
Certain professions, including chefs, firefighters, electricians, and carpenters, are particularly admired. As reported by the Your Tango, these roles offer a sense of stability and fulfillment that many office workers currently lack. However, the grass is not always greener on the other side.
Data from the Pew Research Center shows that only 43% of blue-collar workers feel very satisfied with their jobs, and many express concerns about pay and respect.
A sign of broader workforce dissatisfaction
Given the current economic climate and labor market challenges, dissatisfaction spans all job types. Whether white-collar, blue-collar, or somewhere in between, many workers feel undervalued and unfulfilled.
The trend of white-collar employees considering a move to skilled trades reflects a broader search for meaningful work and security.
As quoted by the Your Tango, 'most people have stayed in their white-collar roles because they need the income or financial stability or because they lack the skills or training for a trade job.' This complex mix of factors drives a significant portion of the US workforce to rethink their career trajectories. The coming years may see a continued shift as more workers pursue hands-on, trade-based professions to escape burnout and uncertainty in office environments.
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