Facing a shortage of skilled tradespeople, companies are increasingly recruiting directly from high schools. Students in vocational programs like welding, construction, and automotive repair are receiving multiple job offers, often with signing bonuses and competitive salaries, sometimes even before graduation. This renewed focus on vocational training offers a promising path to well-paying jobs for students who may not be interested in a four-year college degree, while simultaneously addressing the critical skills gap affecting many industries.
The Atlantic article highlights a concerning trend in the job market: prime-age workers (25-54) are increasingly leaving the workforce, while older workers are staying longer and teenagers are entering at lower rates. This shrinking prime-age workforce, coupled with the rising number of retirees needing social support, poses a significant threat to economic growth and the stability of programs like Social Security and Medicare. The reasons for this trend are complex and include factors such as childcare costs, long COVID, declining real wages, and the opioid crisis. This exodus, even if temporary, could have lasting negative consequences for the economy.
HN commenters discuss the shrinking job market for young people, with some attributing it to automation and AI, while others point to declining birth rates leading to fewer entry-level positions. Several suggest the issue is cyclical, tied to economic downturns and an oversupply of graduates in certain fields. Some dispute the premise, arguing that opportunities exist but require more specialized skills or entrepreneurial spirit. The idea of "bullshit jobs" is also raised, suggesting that many entry-level roles offer little real value and are susceptible to cuts. Several commenters emphasize the importance of internships and networking for young job seekers, and some advocate for apprenticeships and vocational training as alternatives to traditional college degrees. A few highlight the growing gig economy and remote work options, while others lament the lack of job security and benefits in these fields.
The US is significantly behind China in adopting and scaling robotics, particularly in industrial automation. While American companies focus on software and AI, China is rapidly deploying robots across various sectors, driving productivity and reshaping its economy. This difference stems from varying government support, investment strategies, and cultural attitudes toward automation. China's centralized planning and subsidies encourage robotic implementation, while the US lacks a cohesive national strategy and faces resistance from concerns about job displacement. This robotic disparity could lead to a substantial economic and geopolitical shift, leaving the US at a competitive disadvantage in the coming decades.
Hacker News users discuss the potential impact of robotics on the labor economy, sparked by the SemiAnalysis article. Several commenters express skepticism about the article's optimistic predictions regarding rapid robotic adoption, citing challenges like high upfront costs, complex integration processes, and the need for specialized skills to operate and maintain robots. Others point out the historical precedent of technological advancements creating new jobs rather than simply eliminating existing ones. Some users highlight the importance of focusing on retraining and education to prepare the workforce for the changing job market. A few discuss the potential societal benefits of automation, such as increased productivity and reduced workplace injuries, while acknowledging the need to address potential job displacement through policies like universal basic income. Overall, the comments present a balanced view of the potential benefits and challenges of widespread robotic adoption.
Summary of Comments ( 417 )
https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=43954488
HN commenters largely agree that promoting skilled trades is crucial, citing the current demand and good earning potential. Some point out the societal prestige gap between trades and college, suggesting this needs to change for broader appeal. A few users share personal anecdotes of successful trade careers, further reinforcing their viability. Several comments discuss the importance of practical skills and lament the decline of shop classes. Some debate whether high school is the right time for specialized trade training versus broader skills development. A recurring theme is the need for better career counseling that presents trades as a legitimate path, not a "backup plan." Some commenters criticize the WSJ paywall hindering access to the original article.
The Hacker News post "High-school shop students attract skilled-trades job offers" has generated a number of comments discussing the value of vocational training and the current state of skilled trades.
Several commenters emphasize the significant demand and earning potential in the skilled trades, often exceeding that of college graduates. They highlight the immediate job opportunities available to students completing these programs, contrasting it with the often uncertain job market faced by college graduates. One commenter even shared a personal anecdote of earning six figures in a trade after leaving college.
The discussion also delves into the historical decline of shop classes in high schools, with many lamenting the loss of these valuable programs. Commenters point to a societal shift that prioritized college education for all, often overlooking the viability and importance of skilled trades. This shift, some argue, has contributed to the current shortage of skilled workers.
Some commenters also discuss the broader societal perception of skilled trades, noting that they are often viewed as less prestigious than white-collar jobs. This perception, they argue, further discourages students from pursuing these careers, despite their potential for high earnings and job satisfaction. There's a call for a change in this perception and a greater emphasis on promoting the value of skilled trades.
A few commenters share their personal experiences in the trades or with vocational training programs, offering firsthand accounts of the benefits and challenges. These accounts add a practical dimension to the discussion, highlighting the real-world implications of the issues being discussed.
The thread also touches upon the importance of apprenticeships and mentorship programs in developing skilled workers. Some commenters argue that these programs are crucial for providing hands-on training and ensuring that students are adequately prepared for the demands of the job.
Overall, the comments reflect a general agreement on the value of skilled trades and the need for greater investment in vocational training. There's a shared concern about the shortage of skilled workers and the societal factors contributing to this shortage. The discussion highlights the importance of changing perceptions about skilled trades and promoting them as viable and rewarding career paths for students.