As builders grapple with persistent labor shortages, a new report from Thumbtack’s 2026 Future of the Skilled Trades report suggests the skilled trades may be gaining momentum with a new generation of workers. The findings reveal that concerns about AI’s impact on traditional career paths are contributing to a growing interest in hands-on professions, while experienced workers from other industries are making the switch into the trades.
The report offers a potentially encouraging signal on workforce development. While interest is expanding among both Gen Z and mid-career professionals, AI is emerging as a complementary business tool. The combined trends could help broaden the industry’s future talent pipeline at a time when labor availability remains a significant challenge for builders.
Below are 10 takeaways from the report:
1. Gen Z is taking a fresh look at the trades.
Nearly half of Gen Z respondents said they are either learning a skilled trade or seriously considering one as a career, signaling growing interest in construction and home services careers.
2. AI is steering some young workers toward skilled careers.
Thirty percent of Gen Z respondents said AI has made them more interested in pursuing a skilled trade, as concerns grow about automation’s impact on other occupations.
3. Career stability is a major concern.
More than 80% of Gen Z respondents said it has become harder for young people to build a stable career than it was just a few years ago.
4. Entry-level white-collar jobs face growing skepticism.
Four out of five Gen Z respondents believe AI will eliminate many traditional entry-level jobs, reshaping perceptions of long-term career security.
5. Young workers are already adjusting their career plans.
The report found that 92% of Gen Z respondents have made at least one change to their career strategy in response to current labor market conditions.
6. Trades are increasingly viewed as a smart career bet.
Three in four Gen Z respondents said skilled trades could become one of the smartest career choices for their generation.
7. The industry is attracting career changers.
Among trade pros with less than two years of experience, 38% previously worked in corporate or white-collar roles, highlighting the trades’ appeal beyond traditional recruitment channels.
8. Burnout is driving new entrants.
Twenty-six percent of newer trades professionals said they entered the field after experiencing burnout and seeking a career reset.
9. AI adoption is growing among trade professionals.
More than one-third (35%) of skilled-trades professionals reported using AI regularly in their businesses.
10. AI is being used to improve operations, not replace skilled labor.
Among professionals using AI, the most common applications include marketing, customer communication, and research, demonstrating how technology is being used to support business operations.
