The high costs of a four year degree are causing Gen Z's to look for vocational degree options - and a much shorter, less expensive path to the workforce. Community College enrollment in vocational programs is up at many schools.
Tori McTaggart, Vocational Nursing Coordinator at Alvin Community College ("ACC") in Alvin points out that 1 year is all that is required to get the classroom and clinical work done to complete the LVN program at ACC. ACC boasts a 100% passing rate from their students in the exams for LVNs for the past 12 years.
Other options can include apprenticeships for skilled trades positions.
Jon Howland, Director of Marketing for Dewalt says apprenticeships are available that can offer real-world skills and experience, along with an associates degree - all while earning a great paycheck, plus retirement & other benefits. Howland says creating awareness for young people is important and they should be thinking about these opportunities, not as entry-level jobs, but as careers. Howland estimates as many as 500,000 job openings may be out there for skilled trades positions as more older workers reach retirement age. Dewalt has pledged $30 Million dollars in support over 5 years to support the trades.
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