(Without breaking their hearts or yours)
This conversation is hard. Your parents invested in your education, you feel like you're letting them down. These resources will help you show them—and yourself—that this isn't failure. It's strategic career planning.
Numbers don't lie. Use this calculator to build your financial case.
* Estimates assume 5% annual raises in trades vs 2% in current role. Actual results vary by location, trade, and individual circumstances.
Expand each section for conversation templates you can customize.
"Mom/Dad, I want to talk to you about something important. I've been doing a lot of thinking and research about my career, and I want to share what I've learned with you. This isn't a snap decision - it's something I've been considering carefully." Key points to hit: - Acknowledge their investment in your education - Show you've done your homework - Express that you value their input
Videos, articles, communities, and real stories to help you make your case.
The Career Whispers
November 2024 practical guide on pivoting careers. Includes concrete steps for overcoming psychological barriers.
Read →Monika Pejic
First-person account of switching from psychology career. Key insight: "Learning new things is never a waste of time."
Read →Crooked Calligraphy
From someone who left corporate law. Breaks down why pivoting isn't 'wasting' your degree.
Read →NIH
Official NIH career blog. Key message: "It is okay to make a new decision based on new data."
Read →UTI
Step-by-step conversation guide. Covers addressing parent concerns about prestige, income, and job stability.
Read →Freedom Sprout
Parent's perspective that grads can share. Includes Mike Rowe insights.
Read →Dustin Stelzer
522K+ subscribers. Austin, TX master electrician. Deep electrical theory plus real job content.
Watch →Roger Wakefield
650K+ subscribers, 137M+ views. Master plumber with 40 years experience. Also created The Trades Academy.
Watch →Starving Electrician
Honest, "keeps it real" content about daily electrician life. Shows both challenges and rewards.
Watch →Final Round AI
Research shows trades are among the LEAST threatened by AI. "94% of construction companies report difficulty sourcing workers."
Read →DemandSage
Comprehensive stats showing AI affects white-collar more than blue-collar. "Skilled trades remain in high demand."
Read →Mattlar Jari
"Construction and skilled trades are among the least threatened by AI automation."
Read →RSI
Specifically addresses college grads returning to trade school. Covers why degree holders are choosing trades.
Read →SHRM
From the Society for Human Resource Management. Professional perspective on the Gen Z trades shift.
Read →Find out which trade careers match your interests and degree. Get personalized recommendations and talking points for your conversation.