Attitudes & perceptions about the trades as a potential career choice: A Study of Otago University students

Abstract

Anecdotal evidence suggests that the trades have long been associated with negative attitudes and stereotypes that have led to a decline in the number of people choosing to undertake a career in the trades. This phenomenon is currently highlighted by the skills shortage in the trades. Following the work of Scharfenburg (2000), who investigated the attitudes of Canadian high school students towards apprenticeships, this research investigated the attitudes and perceptions of students towards the trades as a career option. One hundred and four Otago University students completed a survey indexing their attitudes and knowledge concerning the trades. Results from this survey indicated that students had a limited knowledge of what occupations denote a trade, what skills and training are required to become a tradesperson and finally what financial return and employment prospects can be offered by the trades. It was found that students who had a lack of awareness about careers in the trades were more likely to have increased negative attitudes concerning the trades. Furthermore, these students were less likely to consider the trades as a career option. These results confirm both Scharfenburg (2000)'s findings and anecdotal evidence suggesting that a greater focus needs to be placed on promoting the trades in a manner that increases students' awareness of careers within the trades.