Billionaire Lubetzky Urges Gen Z to Consider Skilled Trades Amid AI Job Shifts

Billionaire Daniel Lubetzky, a prominent figure on the television show Shark Tank, has expressed his belief that universities have not adequately prepared Generation Z for the modern workforce. He argues that universities have failed to teach critical thinking and a "builder's mindset," which prioritizes curiosity, creativity, compassion, and courage. Lubetzky suggests that in an era where artificial intelligence is replacing entry-level jobs, young people should consider pursuing skilled trade jobs, which he describes as a "huge field with huge opportunities that pays really, really well."

Lubetzky, who made his fortune by selling his snack company KIND to Mars in 2020 for $5 billion, emphasizes that vocational training and learning trades such as carpentry or mechanics can be highly lucrative. He believes that these fields are thriving, particularly due to the increased demand for data centers. Moreover, these jobs often require only an apprenticeship or on-the-job training, making them accessible for career transitions and offering the potential for six-figure salaries.

Despite the potential benefits, the skilled trade industry is not without its challenges. It is plagued by seasonality and safety hazards, and job openings, while high, can be unpredictable. For instance, the U.S. construction industry had 245,000 job openings in May 2025, and the manufacturing sector had over 414,000 jobs. However, Lubetzky argues that the stigma surrounding skilled trades needs to be addressed. He believes that society has not sufficiently celebrated builders of physical infrastructure, and universities have failed to teach young people how to be critical thinkers and listeners.

Lubetzky's perspective comes at a time when many young people are facing career uncertainties. Over 80,000 tech workers have experienced layoffs this year, and leaders like Amazon CEO Andy Jassy have been transparent about the role of AI in reducing corporate ranks. Lubetzky suggests that trying out different career paths and experiencing failure can be valuable in advancing through one's career. He believes that having a builder's mindset is essential for society and that curiosity, critical thinking, and critical listening are crucial components of this mindset.

While the skilled trade industry has the potential to be a safe haven from AI's impact on white-collar work, it may not be as lucrative as some promise. Trade roles are among the worst entry-level jobs in the U.S., according to a study, due to their lack of growth potential and high job hazards. Additionally, trade industries have high unemployment levels due to their seasonal nature. However, Lubetzky remains optimistic about the potential for young people to find success in skilled trades, emphasizing the importance of trying new things and learning from failures.