“But Mwandjalulu, who makes nearly $24 an hour as a carpenter, said he’s still had trouble convincing his friends, whom he keeps in touch with on Facebook and Snapchat, to follow his path.”
Applications from young people for plumbing, building and electrical jobs fell 49 percent between 2020 and 2022, per Handshake. Postings that drew 10 applicants now draw five. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce warns of a “massive” shortage. Schools spent decades steering every kid to a four-year degree, and employers are surprised nobody showed up with a toolbelt.