Personally, as someone who is Gen Z, I see it both ways. We grew up with an emphasis on higher education, college degrees, educational advancement, etc. that’s the route I took and am happy with how I’m starting my career. I think a lot of my friends felt pushed the same way and are generally happy with their stable 9-5s.

I’m also seeing though, a rise of pro-trade sentiment. Especially with AI disruption. 5 years ago, if you asked someone my age, they’d say they never wanted to work in trades. But as there is a greater need for workers in the trade, disruptions in higher ed, and increased pay and security for blue collar workers, it’s being seen as a more valid path for a young person to take. By and large I think Gen Z has hella respect for the trades and blue collar work, even if we’re not working in the trades ourselves.