Gen-Z is shunning college to take up traditional trades like welding and plumbing they say is far more satisfying and which doesn't incur huge student debt

Increasing numbers of Generation Z are opting out of college and turning to vocational schools with hopes of higher wages and avoiding student debt, data shows.

Young people who came of age during the pandemic said they have been deterred from four-year universities by high tuition and the prospect of student debt.

Instead, they are attending trade schools and are being enticed by well-paying job opportunities and satisfying work.