I (finally) went through the layoff grinder about a year ago after two decades in corporate America. Thankfully landed a more fulfilling and reasonable gig, but I'm honestly still decompressing.
What about the Gen Xers working in the trades and factories? Same burnout? I ask this because I feel like these workers are often overlooked in generational assessments.
In my research, I came across data points that it is worse. Offshoring, constant re-learning, no stability, and constant downward pressure on wages for "unskilled" workers. Some of the trades are doing well because areas of specialization, like electricians, plumbers, and masons, are in demand, and there aren't enough apprentices to carry on these skills.
There are some greenshoots of progress here and there. Can't speak for other school districts, but the one my sons both attended have partnerships with local trade unions and businesses for apprenticeships.
The myth of "putting in one's time" is especially acute in industries like aviation where Gen Xers were sandwiched between people hired before deregulation and those hired in an era of LBOs, mergers, 9/11, and bankruptcies. There are (I think) 8 of us in my station with 25+ years. It's suppose to be our time in the sun. It's...not.
Talk about growth potential and guaranteed employment for plumbers and electricians! If I were doing it again I would seriously think about either vocation.
So good. I felt this in my weary Gen X bones.
Me, too, S.W. After a 25+ year career, I am exhausted, weary, and wary of any corporate job, knowing the cost attached to it.
I (finally) went through the layoff grinder about a year ago after two decades in corporate America. Thankfully landed a more fulfilling and reasonable gig, but I'm honestly still decompressing.
**SAME**
What about the Gen Xers working in the trades and factories? Same burnout? I ask this because I feel like these workers are often overlooked in generational assessments.
In my research, I came across data points that it is worse. Offshoring, constant re-learning, no stability, and constant downward pressure on wages for "unskilled" workers. Some of the trades are doing well because areas of specialization, like electricians, plumbers, and masons, are in demand, and there aren't enough apprentices to carry on these skills.
There are some greenshoots of progress here and there. Can't speak for other school districts, but the one my sons both attended have partnerships with local trade unions and businesses for apprenticeships.
100%!!!!
The myth of "putting in one's time" is especially acute in industries like aviation where Gen Xers were sandwiched between people hired before deregulation and those hired in an era of LBOs, mergers, 9/11, and bankruptcies. There are (I think) 8 of us in my station with 25+ years. It's suppose to be our time in the sun. It's...not.
Kevin, exactly! Our generation got passed over like we were nothing. It's insane how invisible we are in the workplace....
Talk about growth potential and guaranteed employment for plumbers and electricians! If I were doing it again I would seriously think about either vocation.
Thank you for sharing, I will be reading it in a moment