Zen Stewart, at 34, transitioned from studying interior design to a successful career as an electrician in the US, earning approximately $43,000 annually.
Zen Stewart, a 34-year-old former interior design student, has found success as a fourth-level construction electrician in Raleigh, North Carolina. After initially pursuing degrees in interior design, graphic design, and business administration, Stewart decided to change paths after realizing that her passion lay not in traditional academia but in skilled trades. By engaging in an apprenticeship program, she has proven that it's never too late to pursue a career change.
Since switching careers, Zen's experience serves as an inspiring testament to others hesitant about entering the trades due to a lack of confidence or experience. In an interview with CNBC, she shared her journey from classrooms to construction sites, emphasizing the multitude of opportunities available in skilled trades which often offer competitive salaries and the potential for financial independence without the burden of extensive university debt.
Stewart's story highlights the shift in perception regarding vocational training and skilled labor. It not only addresses the growing demand for electricians in the United States but also encourages others to consider viable alternatives to traditional education paths, pointing out that passion and hands-on experience can lead to fulfilling and lucrative careers.
