Let’s talk about Gen Z, born between 1997 and 2012, who are shaking up the workforce in ways we can’t ignore. As a plumbing business owner, I’ve seen firsthand how this generation works, communicates, and searches for info, and let me tell you, they have been a game changer for our business and for the trade. If you’re not tapping into their potential, you’re missing out big time.

First off, Gen Z isn’t following the old playbook. A national economist, Nich Tremper from Gusto, recently pointed out that there are 2 million fewer students in four-year colleges compared to 2011. Why? Skyrocketing tuition (up 30% at public schools and 42% at private ones since 2011), has left older generations drowning in $37,000 of average student loan debt, often for degrees that didn’t even land them relevant jobs. Gen Z sees this mess and says, “hard pass.” They’re jumping straight into jobs or trades like plumbing and electrical where they can earn money right away. It’s a smart move, and our trade can benefit greatly from this shift.

Skeptics, including myself, might say, “Gen Z doesn’t want to work hard.” I thought so too until I started hiring them. These kids are hungry to earn, and they’re absolute wizards with technology. In our trade, where we’re glued to dispatch software like Service Titan, House Call Pro, Jobber or Service Fusion, that tech-savvy mindset is gold. They pick up these apps faster than I can pour my morning coffee, streamlining our workflows like it’s second nature. But, it’s not just tech; beyond that they’re adaptable, entrepreneurial, want to feel purposeful, and crave work that means something. Plus, they’re hands-on learners, which is perfect for a trade like ours. Get this: 67% of them say social media has made them more interested in trades, according to Thumbtack. They’re seeing plumbing as a legit, even cool career path.

Let me share some stories that’ll make you want to hire Gen Z yesterday. One of my best hires was a former union painter who was itching for a challenge. He picked plumbing because he saw how dynamic it is, especially with new tech like smart home integrations. He went from knowing nothing to running his own van and being a top earner in under two years. Then there’s the son of a designer we work with. This kid was an Eagle Scout, a martial arts buff for over a decade and loved tinkering with anything mechanical. He tried a desk job at an insurance company and hated it. I invited him for a ride-along, and he was hooked. Another gem? A random encounter while I was shoe shopping. The young man helping me had this genuine vibe, great people skills and super authentic. We got to talking, and he said he wanted to get into the trades. I offered him a ride-along, and just like that, he was all in. Now he’s killing it in our apprenticeship program.

So, how do we connect with Gen Z and bring them into the fold? Here’s what’s worked for me:

1. Go Organic with Recruiting: Forget ZipRecruiter or Indeed. Every one of my Gen Z hires came from real-life connections or chance meetings. There’s something about these “meant-to-be” moments that clicks with them and makes them feel a genuine bond to the opportunity.
2. Hire for Character, Not Just Skills: I live by the motto, “Recruit character, teach skill.” Gen Z is ambitious and eager to learn. Figure out what makes them tick, and you’ll unlock qualities that make your company unstoppable.
3. Set Up a Ride-Along Program: This has been a game-changer for us. Two ride-alongs let my team interact with candidates and give me honest feedback, while the candidates get a real taste of the job. It’s a win-win, and we learn everything we need to know about their potential.
4. Build a Killer Apprenticeship Program: Gen Z loves hands-on learning, and they’re glued to their screens. Combine on-the-job training with online modules, and watch them thrive. We’ve seen incredible results with this mix.

Gen Z isn’t just the future, they’re the now. They’re pragmatic, tech-driven and ready to make their mark in the plumbing trade. Let’s meet them where they are and build a team that’s ready for whatever’s next.