Could Gen Z Be the Next Toolbelt Generation? If Only Boomers Could Understand What We’re Saying…

Gen Z trades the laptop for a hammer — and not just because their Wi-Fi is down.

Tool Belt wearing Gen Z

In an era where participation trophies are so 2010s and everyone’s obsessed with the next TikTok challenge, it’s no surprise that some of Gen Z’s brightest minds are swapping out the college textbooks for the weight of a toolbelt. Yep, you read that right — Gen Z might just be the next “Toolbelt Generation.”

According to a recent report from ADP, blue-collar jobs are seeing an uptick in Gen Z workers — who may or may not understand what “blue-collar” means. Between January 2019 and May 2024, blue-collar employment for those in their early 20s grew faster than for the 25-to-39 crowd. Does this mean the TikTokers and Insta-Influencers are trading in their digital devices for actual tools? Bet.

“Wait, You’re Saying I Can Work and Still Flex?”

Kit Dickinson, an executive at ADP, says construction work is low-key becoming a Gen Z vibe. With tech layoffs everywhere and student loans piling up like your Instagram feed after a concert, the trades are looking more fire than ever. According to Dickinson, this generation is all about securing the bag — but with benefits like tuition reimbursement, mental health support, and even pet insurance, they can totally flex while working hard on-site.

“It’s not just about holding a shovel anymore,” Dickinson says. “Construction has gone high-tech. Gen Z is hearing about the big bucks and the chance to climb the career ladder without needing a 4-year degree.”

What’s In It For Gen Z?

We’re talking about tuition reimbursement, community service days (no cap), and yes, pet insurance. Apparently, Gen Z’s concept of a “sick day” now includes taking care of their fur babies — so contractors who want to recruit this generation need to make room for the pets (and I’m talking more than just emotional support ducks).

Employers are stepping up, offering things like mental health counseling and making job sites more inclusive and progressive, like installing lactation stations to attract women into the trades. “The vibe is definitely more progressive,” Dickinson says.

And it’s working! Companies are increasingly seeing that Gen Z isn’t just in it for the paycheck; they want to make an impact. This generation wants to be part of a community, contribute, and create something that’s, like, totally epic. Construction companies that want to be lit in the future are evolving fast to keep up.

Gen Z’s Real Talk: What Do They Want?

According to Dickinson, one of the biggest draws for Gen Z is the flexibility to grow, not just within a job, but through entrepreneurial opportunities. “Gen Z wants to run the show,” he explains. “They’re not just here for the 9-to-5 grind. They want to build — businesses, careers, and community.” That means offering career development, entrepreneurial pathways, and leadership opportunities. If you’re a contractor, you better be ready to help these young workers level up.

“So You Want Me to Fix What?”

As for technology, Gen Z’s expectations are sky-high. Raised on iPhones and a steady stream of digital apps, these future toolbelt-wearers are bringing their tech-savvy ways to construction sites. Drones? 3D imaging? “Yeah, we have that,” says Dickinson. And as these new workers start showing up with fresh ideas and cutting-edge skills, construction companies are taking notice.

The Bottom Line:

As federal funds continue to flow into massive infrastructure projects, the need for skilled labor has never been more critical. The construction industry is scrambling to fill positions — and it looks like Gen Z could be the answer. They’re ready to work, innovate, and build with a fire energy that might just surprise you.

So, contractors, stop trying to understand every TikTok slang (because, seriously, who can keep up?), and instead, start crafting job opportunities that give Gen Z the flex they crave. From benefits to career growth, and most importantly, offering the vibes they’re looking for — this is your chance to recruit the next generation of construction workers, one TikTok video at a time.

Is Gen Z the next toolbelt generation? Only time (and a few Gen Zers wearing hard hats) will tell...