65% of Gen Z Concerned over AI, Consider Switch to Trade Career

Zety, a resume templates service, has released the findings of its Gen Z Reroute Report—a national survey of 1,000 Gen Z employees uncovering how artificial intelligence is reshaping early-career decision-making.

The data paints a sharp picture of a generation in transition: Gen Z workers are questioning the value of college, rethinking corporate paths, and increasingly considering hands-on, AI-resistant careers. As traditional pipelines feel less secure, many are actively rerouting their careers—switching industries, upskilling, and turning to trade work—solidifying their role as the Reroute Generation.

Key Findings:

Degrees don’t feel like a safety net anymore. Nearly two-thirds (65%) of Gen Z say a college degree won’t protect them from AI-related job loss.

Confidence in career longevity is slipping. Nearly 1 in 5 (18%) have little to no faith that their current career path will remain relevant over the next 10 years.

AI is actively reshaping Gen Z’s career decisions. 43% have already changed or adjusted their career plans because of AI’s growing influence.

Trade work is becoming a serious option. More than half of Gen Z workers (53%) say they’re now seriously considering blue-collar or skilled trade work.

Cultural influences are fueling the shift. Social media (53%) and family encouragement (47%) are the top drivers shaping Gen Z’s perception of blue-collar work.

“Gen Z is facing one of the most uncertain job markets in decades, and many feel that traditional routes like college and corporate jobs no longer guarantee a stable future,” said Jasmine Escalera, career expert at Zety. “Their interest in trade work and hands-on careers shows a desire for purpose, security, and control in an AI-driven world. I call this shift the ‘AIxiety Pivot’—a growing movement of professionals who are proactively changing course because of AI-related fears and instability.”

Early Career Anxiety in the Age of AI

Concerns about long-term stability are widespread as AI reshapes the job market:

72% believe AI will reduce entry-level corporate job opportunities in the next 5 years, and 17% believe these roles will be eliminated outright.

65% don’t believe a college degree offers protection from AI-driven job loss.

Nearly 1 in 5 (18%) have little to no confidence their current career path will be relevant in the next 10 years. 

How Gen Z Is Responding to AI Disruption

As AI accelerates, many Gen Zers are taking action:

40% are teaching themselves new skills or earning certifications.

29% are looking at entirely new industries.

18% are rage applying to jobs out of frustration.

What Feels AI-Proof? Gen Z’s Views on Safer Careers

Nearly half (43%) of Gen Z workers have already changed or adjusted their career plans due to AI. When asked which paths feel more secure, their answers reflect a desire for roles grounded in human connection, creativity, and physical skills:

53% – Blue-collar and skilled trades (e.g., construction, plumbing, electrical)

47% – People-focused professions (e.g., healthcare, education, social work)

31% – Creative careers (e.g., content creation, graphic design, branding)

30% – Tech and AI-related roles (e.g., cybersecurity, data science, software development) 

28% – Self-employment (e.g., entrepreneurship, freelancing, consulting)

12% – Operational or administrative roles (e.g., finance, HR, project coordination)

What’s Driving Gen Z Toward Blue-Collar Jobs?

More than half of Gen Z workers (53%) say they’re now seriously considering blue-collar or skilled trade work. AI is a major factor, but it’s not the only one:

Higher pay than expected in current roles (50%)

More job opportunities (44%)

Greater flexibility and independence (35%)

Faster entry into the workforce without a degree (19%)

Avoiding student loan debt (18%)

Barriers to Entering Blue-Collar Careers Still Remain

Even with growing interest, not all Gen Zers are ready to embrace skilled trades, and several barriers are slowing the shift:

38% cite physical labor demands as their biggest hesitation.

19% worry about limited upward mobility in these roles.

16% admit they don’t know enough about trade careers to pursue one.

14% feel there’s a lack of prestige in blue-collar work.

Various cultural and social influences are shaping their perceptions:

53% say social media influencers (e.g., Trades TikTok) have influenced their views.

47% cite family background or encouragement.

27% feel disillusioned with corporate culture.

21% cite a lack of diversity in white-collar fields as a factor.