As homeschool parents, we have the freedom to explore different career paths for our children, and it’s time to open our minds to the opportunities in blue-collar jobs and the trades. In the next couple of decades, the money is going to be in mechanical and trade industries—jobs that allow people to work with their hands and build things from the ground up. It’s a shift that not only offers financial stability but also promises a future full of opportunity.

The Growing Demand for Skilled Trades

Let me share a story. I have a friend who owns a plumbing business, but it’s not just about plumbing—it’s about the entire mechanical trade. The reality is, there’s a shortage of skilled workers, and the demand for tradespeople is growing. The trades are no longer the fallback option; they are now a path to success. Business owners in these industries are thriving. For example, in my neighborhood, a man who owns a tire shop built a massive, beautiful house. This guy is making millions—not from a tech startup or white-collar career—but from a tire shop.

Why Trade Jobs Make Financial Sense

With this shift, the advice we’re hearing now is simple: encourage your children to learn a trade, help them gain experience, and then teach them the business side. Once they understand how the company works, they can move up and eventually start their own business. The owners of trade companies are making significant money, and as the shortage of skilled workers continues, their value will only increase.

My Daughter’s Journey in the Mechanics Industry

My daughter is a great example of how this can play out. She’s 21, just returned from Peru, speaks two languages, and has always had a passion for cars. Even at eight years old, she wanted to help fix things. In high school, she took a trade class in mechanics, which meant spending time with a group of boys who didn’t always treat her kindly. But she stood her ground, learned some toughness, and earned her certifications.

She realized that a traditional bachelor’s degree wasn’t for her, but her passion for cars remained. So, through a connection, she met the CEO of a major car company who was thrilled to hear about a young woman interested in mechanics. He told her she’s like a unicorn in the industry and is eager to have her join the company, work her way into leadership, and help change the industry culture for women. It’s an incredible opportunity, and all because she pursued a trade she loved.

The Future of Blue Collar Jobs: A Goldmine for Our Kids

We’ve all been led to believe that white-collar careers and college degrees are the only paths to financial success, but that’s no longer true. Blue-collar jobs like plumbing, construction, and mechanics can offer substantial incomes, especially as the demand for skilled workers grows. One of my plumber friends owns a massive property with four-wheelers and acres of land, all because of his success in the trades. These careers aren’t just viable; they’re lucrative.

For our children, the trades offer a path that is often overlooked. Technical schools allow kids to start learning as early as 16, and many programs only take a year to complete. The key is encouraging our kids to think long-term—don’t just stop at learning the trade; aim for management or business ownership. That’s where the financial freedom lies.

Homeschoolers are Uniquely Positioned for Success in Trades

I’ve noticed that homeschoolers, in particular, often excel in trades. Many of these hands-on careers appeal to kids who thrive outside the traditional public school system. These are kids who love to work with their hands, solve practical problems, and learn in non-traditional ways. The stigma that blue-collar jobs are somehow “less than” is outdated. Now, more than ever, these jobs are highly respected, well-paying, and essential to our economy.

The Importance of Work Ethic

One of the things we teach in homeschooling is the value of hard work. My 18-year-old son recently got a part-time job and quickly noticed how lazy his teenage coworkers were, sitting on their phones instead of working. But because my son was willing to work hard, his boss noticed immediately and already treats him differently. This shows that work ethic is everything. Employers are struggling to find young workers who are willing to show up and give their all. If we can teach our kids to work hard and stay committed, they will always stand out.

Supporting Our Kids’ Unique Passions

As parents, it’s crucial that we support our kids’ passions, whether that’s working with their hands or pursuing academic interests. My daughter’s love for cars led her down a path in the trades, and it’s opening doors for her that she never imagined. The opportunities are there for our kids, and it’s up to us to encourage them to follow what they love, even if it doesn’t look like the traditional path we’ve been told to follow.

At the end of the day, our goal as homeschool parents is to prepare our children for a future where they are both happy and successful. For some, that future is in blue-collar work and trade careers. If your child shows an interest in trades, don’t discourage it—embrace it. There is a world of opportunity waiting for them.

Ready to Help Your Homeschooler Explore Their Future?

At My Homeschool Village, we believe in supporting all paths of learning and career exploration. Whether your child is interested in trades, academics, or entrepreneurship, we have the tools to help guide them. Visit MyHomeschoolVillage.com to learn more about how our Homeschool Pro membership can support your child’s unique learning journey!

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