Old Hands, New Blood: Filling the Trades Gap
This is the third part in my follow-up series to a previous article titled “Bridging the Trades Jobs Gap: Four Key Factors to Watch”. In this post I will address an older trades workforce and the need for younger workers to fill the workforce gap.
The Retirement Wave Is Here—And It’s Changing the Trades
For years, seasoned tradespeople—especially baby boomers—have been the backbone of America’s workforce. At one point, roughly 1 in 4 boomers worked in skilled trades or technical roles, helping to build and maintain everything from homes and highways to heavy industry. But now, that generation is hitting retirement age in large numbers. Over 10,000 boomers retire every single day, and the trades are already starting to feel the pressure.
The Numbers Don’t Lie—We’re Getting Older
Take a look around most job sites or shop floors, and the trend is clear. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median age of skilled trades workers is now 46—years older than the average across all industries. Some trades, like electricians, tool and die makers, and welders, skew even higher. One study predicts that 3.8 million manufacturing jobs will need to be filled by 2031, with over 2 million of those due to retirements alone. Construction, automotive, and HVAC aren’t far behind. For many companies and crews, replacing experience is becoming just as tough as finding bodies to show up.
Not Enough Young People Are Stepping In
Despite solid pay and job security, fewer young people are entering the trades. High schools often push four-year college as the default path, and shop classes have been cut in many places. One survey found that just 16% of high school students are considering a career in the trades. Meanwhile, some younger workers aren’t sure how to break in, or they’ve been told trades are a “backup plan” instead of a first choice. As the older generation exits, there simply aren’t enough new workers coming in to balance things out.
Automation Is Coming—But It’s Not the End of the Road
Yes, automation and robotics are being introduced in more workplaces—but they don’t replace tradespeople, they support them. Robots still can’t wire a house, repair HVAC systems, or handle plumbing inside tight walls. What we’re seeing is more automation of repetitive or dangerous tasks, not the elimination of skilled labor. In fact, tradespeople who can work alongside new tech—troubleshoot it, install it, maintain it—are going to be in even higher demand. Learning to adapt to tech might not just protect your job; it could give you an edge.
This Is a Huge Opportunity—for Those Ready to Step Up
Here’s the upside: for younger tradespeople already in the game—or those thinking about jumping in—there’s never been a better time. Less competition for jobs, more room to grow, and companies desperate to hang on to good workers. Many employers are raising pay, fast-tracking training, and offering real paths to leadership. If you’ve got the skills and the mindset, the next 10–15 years could be your time to build a great career while others are phasing out. The trades are changing—and the next generation has a real chance to lead the way.