By Mackenna Moralez, Associate Editor

Artificial intelligence has rapidly advanced in the years since it was first introduced. With tools like ChatGPT and Gemini, the tool has never been more accessible to the everyday user. However, this development has spurred fear among some workers as AI enthusiasts have promised that the technology can replace workplace functions, threatening the jobs of millions.  

AI is divisive to say the least. Many feel morally opposed to using the technology, citing concerns over the environment and job security. While others have openly embraced it, claiming it to be just another tool in their toolbelt. According to a LinkedIn survey, at least half of U.S. workers believe that AI skills will progress their careers.  

In response to the inclusion of AI in our daily lives, many mid-career employees have taken to focusing on upskilling, the report found. However, less than half of Gen Z believes AI will have little influence on their jobs.   

Despite their skepticism in AI, more Gen Z workers are turning to trade jobs in recent years, saying that they are seeking out job security and a higher income sooner.

Related Content: All Eyes on Gen Z as They Enter the Workforce

Born between 1995 – 2012, the oldest of Gen Z workers first entered the workforce right when the COVID-19 pandemic hit. Many were suddenly left without a job or watched first-hand as family and friends were suddenly left without a job and couldn’t secure a new one because of hiring freezes. In the years since the pandemic, the youngest generation has been called “lazy” or “undeserving,” with some employers saying that they won’t hire Gen Z workers, leaving many to feel like their careers can’t progress.   

Because of this, many Gen Zers have turned to trade jobs, like facilities management. According to ResumeBuilder, 42 percent of Gen Zers are pursuing trade jobs, including 37 percent of those with bachelor’s degrees. The survey found that 19 percent of respondents with a four-year degree said that they couldn’t find a job in their field, while 16 percent they weren’t earning enough with their degree.  

There has never been more exposure to trade jobs thanks to social media platforms. Instagram and TikTok algorithms have started feeding Gen Z videos of what trade jobs actually look like. Because of this, skilled professionals have claimed that their jobs are becoming more “instagrammable,” with posts increasing by over half year-over-year. According to ResumeBuilder, 16 percent of Gen Z respondents with bachelor degrees said that their degree didn’t lead to the career they expected, but social media is opening new doors for the youngest employees. Search traffic for trade schools is growing at a rapid rate. Being successful in these types of careers seem more plausible because they can see it in real-time on their phones. According to the study, 29 percent of respondents said that they have seen others succeed in trades jobs.   

Despite claims that Gen Z “doesn’t want to work,” 36 percent of ResumeBuilder respondents said that they prefer hands-on work, believing that it will offer them more job security in the long run.  

Mackenna Moralez is the associate editor and the host of the Facilities in Focus podcast.