At the recent IEC Business Summit, I had the opportunity to teach a hiring class where we delved into the topic of recruiting the next generation of workers into the skilled trades. The discussion quickly became animated as attendees agreed that shifting the perception of high school students and their families about careers in the trades is key to addressing workforce shortages. 

A survey conducted by Stanley Black & Decker’s Inaugural Makers Index highlighted a concerning trend: while 85% of young people acknowledge the value of a skilled trade career, only one in four (28%) are planning to attend a community college, trade program, or apprenticeship, and an even smaller percentage expect to enter the workforce directly. Despite recognizing the importance of trade careers, only 16% of young people indicated they are very likely to pursue such a path. These statistics demonstrate a disconnect between awareness and action, reinforcing the need for proactive outreach by electrical contractors and other skilled trade professionals. 

The Importance of High School Engagement 

To change these prevailing attitudes, electrical contractors must take an active role in engaging high school students. One of the most effective ways to do this is by participating in career days and other school-sponsored events. Most high schools offer both college days and career days, and while college days might present some opportunity for outreach, career days are the ideal platform for addressing common misconceptions about the skilled trades. 

By engaging students directly, on your own or in collaboration with your IEC chapter, electrical contractors can provide a clear and compelling case for why a career in the electrical trade is a lucrative and rewarding path. Several key misconceptions must be addressed to shift the perspective of students and their families. 

Misconception #1: Limited Earning Potential in the Trades 

One of the most prevalent myths about the trades is that they do not offer a strong financial future. According to the Stanley Black & Decker survey, only 42% of young people believe skilled trade workers earn at least $50,000 per year, while 19% assume the starting pay is below $20,000. These figures stand in stark contrast to reality: 

• Half of skilled trade workers with less than 10 years of experience earn at least $50,000 annually to start. 

• Many electricians, after gaining experience, can earn well into six figures, especially those who start their own businesses or advance into specialized fields. 

• Unlike college graduates, who often begin their careers burdened with significant student loan debt, skilled trade workers frequently enter the workforce debt-free and start earning immediately. 

Electrical contractors should emphasize these earning statistics when speaking to students and parents. By showcasing real-life salary examples and potential career trajectories, they can help change the perception that trade careers lack financial stability. 

Misconception #2: Skilled Trades Are Not as Respected as College Degrees 

Many young people are led to believe that a four-year college degree is the only path to success. However, the reality is that trade professionals are in high demand and enjoy job security, career advancement opportunities, and the ability to earn competitive wages. 

Additionally, many states now recognize apprenticeship programs as creditable college coursework, which means that students who choose an apprenticeship are not closing the door on higher education. Instead, they are earning while they learn, accumulating valuable work experience without the financial strain of tuition debt. This hybrid model of education should be highlighted as an attractive alternative to the traditional college route. IEC’s Apprenticeship Program partners with the American Council on Education’s College Credit Recommendation Service allowing IEC apprentices to receive up to 46 college credit hours. 

Misconception #3: Trade Jobs Do Not Involve Cutting-Edge Technology 

The younger generation is particularly drawn to careers that involve technology and innovation. However, the Stanley Black & Decker survey found that 23% of young people do not believe that skilled trade jobs involve working with cutting-edge technology. This misconception is far from the truth. 

In reality, modern electrical work incorporates some of the most advanced and evolving technologies in the world, including: 

• Smart home installations with automation systems, AI-driven appliances, and energy-efficient solutions. 

• Renewable energy systems, such as solar panel installations and electric vehicle (EV) charging stations. 

• Advanced diagnostic tools and software used for troubleshooting electrical systems. 

Electrical contractors should bring younger employees to career day events to share firsthand experiences of working with innovative technology. This not only makes the industry more relatable but also aligns with younger workers’ desire to be involved in progressive, tech-driven careers. 

Strategies for Effective High School Outreach 

To maximize the impact of outreach efforts, electrical contractors should consider the following strategies: 

1. Participate in Career Fairs: Career days provide an excellent opportunity to present the benefits of an electrical trade career directly to students. 
2. Offer Hands-On Demonstrations: Showing students how to wire a circuit, install a light fixture, or troubleshoot an electrical issue can make the career feel more tangible and exciting. 
3. Bring Young Employees to Speak: High school students may relate better to speakers who are close in age and have recently entered the trade. 
4. Emphasize Financial Advantages: Highlight the ability to earn while learning, avoid student loan debt, and achieve a stable, well-paying career. 
5. Develop Partnerships with Schools: Work with high school administrators and counselors to integrate trade career information into career guidance programs. 
6. Utilize Social Media and Digital Outreach: Since younger generations consume content online, contractors should create engaging social media campaigns showcasing real-life success stories of electricians. 

The Future of the Electrical Trade Industry 

The demand for skilled electricians is growing. As industries evolve and new technologies emerge, the need for qualified electrical professionals will only increase. However, without proactive recruitment efforts, the industry risks facing a significant labor shortage in the coming decades. Check the IEC website under the Workforce tab for the Workforce Development Institute report on growing opportunities here and Research on the value of merit shop here. 

By addressing misconceptions, emphasizing earning potential, and engaging with students early in their career decision-making process, electrical contractors can play a pivotal role in shaping the future workforce. The electrical trade is a career that offers financial stability, technological advancement, and long-term growth, making it a compelling choice for the next generation. 

Now is the time for industry leaders to step up and change the narrative — ensuring that students, parents, and educators see the skilled trades not just as an alternative to college, but as an equally prestigious and rewarding career path. 

Conclusion 

Recruiting young talent into the electrical trade is essential for the industry’s continued success. While challenges exist in changing perceptions, the benefits of pursuing a trade career speak for themselves. 

Electrical contractors must take a proactive approach by engaging with high school students, providing clear information about earnings, career advancement, and the integration of cutting-edge technology into the trade. Through these efforts, we can build a strong, skilled workforce that is ready to meet the demands of the future. 

By embracing outreach initiatives and highlighting the value of trade careers, the electrical industry can ensure that more young people recognize the immense opportunities waiting for them in the skilled trades. Now is the time to bridge the gap and inspire the next generation of electricians. 

Wendy Christie is the owner and developer of EmployerESource, a software program that creates customized company handbooks based on business requirements, state and federal laws, and industry best practices. With over 20 years of experience in employee relations, Wendy has reviewed employment laws in all 50 states and worked with companies across a wide range of industries. Register at handbook.employeresource.com to download an employee handbook tailored for electrical contractors.