New research has found that two in three New Zealand degree holders would opt for a trade over university if they were starting their working lives again — a finding that carries significant weight for an industry that has long struggled to attract skilled workers.
The data comes from a global survey by MoneySuperMarket, which polled 3,600 graduates across 14 countries. New Zealand ranked second worldwide for trade regret, with 67% of local respondents saying they would have chosen a vocational pathway over a university degree. South Africa topped the list at 69%, followed by Mexico at 62%.
Which Professions Are Most Likely to Make the Switch
The survey found that not all degree holders are equally inclined to reconsider. IT and technology workers showed the strongest interest in a career change toward the trades, with 34% indicating they would consider the switch. Healthcare workers followed at 19%, and those in education at 16%.
These figures suggest that professionals in desk-heavy, screen-dependent roles are among those most drawn to the hands-on nature of trade work.
What’s Driving the Rethink
The appeal of trades goes beyond pay. When graduates were asked why they would have chosen a vocational path, the top reasons were:
- The ability to be self-employed (60%)
- Preference for hands-on work (54%)
- Long-term earning potential (46%)
- Wanting to avoid desk-based work (45%)
- Geographic flexibility (39%)
- Better work-life balance (34%)
- Job security (33%)
- Seeing tangible results from their work (30%)
The desire for independence and self-employment stands out as the leading motivator. For many, the idea of running their own business — whether as a sole trader or small contractor — is more appealing than climbing a corporate ladder.
Electricians Lead the List of Preferred Trades
When survey respondents were asked which trade they would most likely pursue, electrician came out well ahead of the rest:
- Electrician – 26%
- Carpenter or joiner – 14%
- Heating and HVAC engineer – 9%
- Painter and decorator – 9%
- Mechanic – 9%
- Plumber – 5%
- Builder – 3%
The strong preference for electrical work likely reflects its combination of strong wages, consistent demand, and clear career progression through licensing.
Insurance: The Practical Side of Going into the Trades
For anyone making the switch from an office role into a trade, the financial and logistical requirements can come as a surprise. Beyond the cost of tools and a work vehicle, insurance cover is one area that new tradespeople frequently underestimate.
Specialist commercial vehicle insurance is typically required, along with tool cover and goods-in-transit protection. For sole traders and new contractors, getting this right from the start is important — being underinsured can have serious consequences if equipment is lost, stolen, or damaged on a job.
What This Means for the Industry
For construction businesses and trade employers, these findings point to an opportunity. There is a large pool of qualified, experienced people in other industries who are actively interested in moving into the trades. Structured career change pathways, apprenticeship programmes tailored to adult learners, and clear information about what it takes to get started could help convert that interest into real workforce growth.
The sentiment is clear: the trades are no longer seen as a fallback. For a growing number of New Zealanders, they represent a smarter choice.
Explore more insights from New Zealand’s construction and trades industry, or connect with training providers and workforce programmes in your region.
