High school graduation season is here, and with it comes a flood of party invitations—and big decisions about the future. For many families, this time also sparks deep conversations about what’s next for their graduates. Should they go to college? Jump into the workforce? Pursue something different?

I had a conversation recently with a friend whose son is incredibly mechanically inclined. He dreams of becoming an auto mechanic. But despite his interests and natural talents, she pushed him toward a traditional four-year college path. Her reasoning? “Not my son.”

This mindset—though well-intentioned—highlights a broader societal bias: that skilled trades are somehow “less than” traditional office jobs. I’m here to challenge that narrative.

Let’s talk facts.

Private equity firms are pouring money into skilled trades. Plumbing, HVAC, electrical work—these industries are booming. Investors know where the demand is heading, and it’s not toward another open-plan office suite. It’s toward hands-on, essential services that keep our homes and communities running.

And while AI is shifting the landscape of many industries, it won’t replace plumbers or electricians any time soon. It may change how they work, but it won’t eliminate their work. In fact, these are some of the most future-proof careers out there.

Another underrated benefit? When you leave a skilled trade job for the day, you’re done. There are no after-hours emails, no emergency meetings, no last-minute PowerPoint decks. Clock in. Do good work. Clock out. That kind of work-life balance is rare—and powerful.

Companies are also becoming more creative with scheduling, recognizing the need for flexibility and well-being. The pandemic accelerated this shift, and today’s skilled trade roles often offer more work-life balance than they did even a decade ago.

Take my friend, for example—the one who did become a mechanic. Over the years, he earned certifications and built a strong reputation. Today, he earns nearly $200,000 a year and sets his own hours. In the summer, he works just three days a week so he can enjoy time at his lake house. That kind of lifestyle is nearly unheard of in the traditional corporate world unless you’re high up the food chain.

So if you—or someone you care about—is considering a career path, don’t overlook skilled trades. Whether it’s for a recent graduate, a mentee, or even yourself, these roles offer financial stability, autonomy, and a balanced life. For those who are mechanically inclined or who prefer working with their hands rather than sitting behind a computer, a skilled trade might be the path that leads to true career satisfaction.

A four-year degree isn’t the only way to success. In many cases, it might not even be the best way.