College or trade school? Why there isn't one path to success | Sydne Jacques | TEDxSaltLakeCity

Summary

This video script highlights the value of skilled tradespeople, especially those working in construction, and challenges the societal bias that a college degree is the only path to success. The speaker, a civil engineer, emphasizes the importance of respecting hard-working 'humans in hard hats' who build our infrastructure, and advocates for exploring alternative career paths like technical education and apprenticeships. Through personal stories and statistics, the script encourages parents, counselors, and youth to recognize that success can be achieved through hands-on skills, without the burden of college debt.

Takeaways

• 😀 The incredible feats of ancient and modern construction highlight human ingenuity, but the hard work of today's construction workers is just as impressive.
• 🏗️ Construction workers, often referred to as 'humans in hard hats,' are essential to building the infrastructure that supports our daily lives.
• 💡 Skilled tradespeople, like carpenters, plumbers, and electricians, are often underappreciated, yet they play a crucial role in society.
• 🎓 Society should value technical education and vocational training as legitimate career paths, not as 'punishments' for students who don't fit the traditional college model.
• 💰 Students who enter skilled trades can earn higher salaries than many college graduates, without the burden of student debt.
• 📉 Around 40% of students who start college never finish their degree, and those who do graduate often carry significant debt (average of $35,000).
• 🔨 Entering a trade through technical schools or apprenticeships offers students valuable job experience and financial stability.
• 🏠 Skilled trades provide ample career opportunities. For example, the construction industry faced a shortage of 1.5 million workers in 2021.
• 👨‍🔧 People working in the trades can often afford homes and other luxuries, as shown by the success of Sterling, who skipped college to work in the trades.
• 💬 Parents and educators should help students see the value in pursuing careers in skilled trades, opening up alternative pathways to success.
• 🌍 The message is clear: Respect the work of tradespeople, encourage young people to explore skilled trades, and challenge societal biases that prioritize college degrees over hands-on careers.

Q & A

What is the main message of the speaker in the transcript?

The speaker emphasizes the importance of recognizing and respecting skilled tradespeople, encouraging society to appreciate those who build our infrastructure and communities, while also advocating for alternative career paths that don't require a college degree.

Why does the speaker refer to construction workers as 'humans in hard hats'?

The term 'humans in hard hats' is a respectful and endearing way to acknowledge construction workers and others in skilled trades. It highlights their hard work and dedication, portraying them as essential contributors to society.

What does the speaker suggest we do for one day to better appreciate construction workers?

The speaker suggests keeping track of everything we use that someone else has built, such as homes, roads, water systems, and buildings, in order to realize the vital contributions of construction workers and the infrastructure they provide.

How does the speaker argue that society views skilled trades today?

The speaker argues that society often views skilled trades as inferior or less prestigious compared to academic careers. He challenges this perception by pointing out the value and importance of such work, as well as the good salaries and career opportunities they offer.

What is the speaker's opinion on the traditional emphasis on going to college?

The speaker believes that society places too much emphasis on the necessity of a college degree. He argues that success can be achieved through various career paths, including skilled trades, and that these paths should be equally respected.

How does the speaker illustrate the financial benefits of choosing a trade over a college degree?

The speaker mentions that high school graduates who enter skilled trades can earn an average salary $10,000 higher than a recent college graduate, and they can do so without incurring student debt, which is a significant financial burden for many college graduates.

What personal experience does the speaker share to support the value of skilled trades?

The speaker shares the story of his daughter Nikki's boyfriend, Sterling, who chose to attend technical school and work in the trades. Sterling has since bought his first house at the age of 23, demonstrating financial success without attending college.

What point does the speaker make about the discipline strategy in some schools regarding CTE (Career and Technical Education) classes?

The speaker criticizes the practice of sending students to CTE classes as a form of punishment. He argues that we should instead encourage students to see technical education as an opportunity for career success, not as a consequence for misbehavior.

What are some examples of skilled trade programs that the speaker suggests are valuable career options?

The speaker highlights programs in carpentry, plumbing, welding, electrical work, and medical assisting as valuable career paths that offer good salaries, job security, and personal fulfillment.

How does the speaker suggest parents, counselors, and youth leaders can help shift perceptions about skilled trades?

The speaker suggests that parents, counselors, and youth leaders open their minds to the possibility that young people can find success without attending college. They can encourage students to explore technical education and trades as viable and rewarding career options.