How Social Media Is Helping Get Young People Interested in the Trades
In a recent survey, nearly half of young trade professionals said social media had played a role in influencing their career choices
Sept. 20, 2024
Image: Redpixel / stock.adobe.com
Social media is playing a role in influencing young people to enter the trades and construction workforce.
More young people are becoming interested in careers in construction and the trades, and a recent survey suggests social media may be a leading cause for this. The survey, conducted by power tools manufacturer DeWalt and skills hub WorldSkills International during WorldSkills' recent 2024 vocational skills competition, found that more than 44% of young trade professionals were influenced by social media in choosing their careers. Additionally, 75% of those surveyed expressed a desire to use social media to raise awareness and improve the perception of skilled trades as fulfilling careers.
“The findings from our survey highlight that to connect with young people, we need to be innovative and creative on how we present skilled career options,” said David Hoey, CEO, WorldSkills International. “It is essential to create diverse role models young people can relate to, use the power of social media to challenge outdated perceptions, and at every turn demonstrate that skilled careers are exciting, viable, and rewarding.”
