Why Gen Z is Rethinking Careers: The Rise of Skilled Trades

Hosted by

Nick Schlemmer

Podcast Host & senior in the Professional Golf Management (PGM) program at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln

Jack McFarlane

Podcast Host & senior Economics major at the University of Utah

About this episode

Why Gen Z is Rethinking Careers: The Rise of Skilled Trades

Hosts: Jack McFarlane and Nicholas Schlemmer

Guest: Jake Adams, Journeyman Carpenter

 

Summary

In this episode of The Play by Play Podcast, Jack McFarlane and Nick Schlemmer revisit the world of blue-collar work with returning guest Jake Adams, a journeyman carpenter who first joined the show at the beginning of his career journey. The conversation explores why Gen Z is rethinking traditional career paths, the growing interest in skilled trades, and how technology and AI are impacting hands-on work. Jake shares his experience moving from apprentice to journeyman, what he has learned along the way, and how mentorship, work ethic, and new opportunities are shaping the future of blue-collar careers.

 

Takeaways

  • Why skilled trades are becoming a more attractive career option for younger generations
  • How AI and technology are influencing construction and trade industries
  • The value of apprenticeships, hands-on learning, and career exploration
  • How mentorship and reverse mentorship are changing workplace dynamics
  • Why career growth does not always follow a traditional four-year college path

 

 

Thank you for joining the show today!  Remember to subscribe wherever you get your podcasts!

 

Download Transcript

 

The HR Happy Hour Network is sponsored by Workhuman.
We talk a lot on this show about where HR is headed — and one of the most exciting developments I’ve seen lately is what Workhuman is doing with Future Leaders. Future Leaders is the first talent intelligence tool of its kind, helping companies identify high-potential VP+ talent already inside their organization — up to 4 years before they step into the role. And it’s not based on gut instinct or visibility. Using real-time recognition data and proprietary AI, it reveals who’s already influencing and elevating the people around them. Future Leaders from Workhuman is setting a new standard for internal talent development. Learn more at workhuman.com. Thanks for joining us.

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Published

July 10, 2026

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