With the skilled labor market projected to experience significant growth in the US by 2032, according to McKinsey Insights, could a career in the skilled trades offer a more promising path than college?

Research already shows a noticeable increase in trade school enrollments, especially among Gen Z students seeking alternative pathways to career success.

With over 43 million Americans carrying federal student loan debt, as reported by educationdata.org, trade schools can offer a more affordable and faster route to a stable career compared to traditional four-year college degrees.

In this week’s episode of Money Glow Up, host Tiffany Aliche talks with career expert and executive coach Laura Gassner Otting to unpack the financial pros and cons of trade school and college.

Gassner Otting highlights that although college graduates may earn more over their lifetimes, trade school graduates start earning earlier — and without the burden of student loan debt.

“They graduate debt-free and often begin earning union-protected wages right away,” says Gassner Otting.

She also points out that even if you choose trade school now, college remains an option later: “Many people return to school as a pivot point in their careers.”

Together with Yahoo Finance, Tiffany Alice creates a space to share real and inspiring money stories, learn financial fundamentals, and build your future. Step into the classroom with Money Glow Up every Thursday at 12pm ET with Tiffany Aliche—aka The Budgetnista—to jump-start your financial journey.

Money Glow Up is produced by Lauren Pokedoff and Shelby Boamah.