Mike Rowe Highlights Booming Skilled Trade Job Opportunities Across the U.S.

By Jim Thomas | August 5, 2025, 8:13 PM EDT Mike Rowe, CEO of the Mike Rowe Works Foundation, appeared on Newsmax to discuss the evolving U.S. labor market. Despite advancements in artificial intelligence, demand for skilled trades continues to rise, with millions of vacancies unfilled. During his appearance on "Rob Schmitt Tonight," Rowe emphasized that trade professions are not only highly sought after but also offer stability amid economic shifts. "There are approximately 7.6 million job openings that remain vacant," Rowe stated. "That figure should definitely catch your attention." He highlighted a disconnect in the workforce, including around 7 million capable men not participating in employment or job searches. Meanwhile, trade schools and community colleges are experiencing growth, contrasting with the decline of traditional four-year college enrollments, which Rowe described as a "self-inflicted collapse." For 17 years, the nonprofit Mike Rowe Works Foundation has awarded work ethic scholarships. In 2025, applications surged tenfold compared to the previous year, signaling a significant shift in public interest toward skilled trades. Rowe pointed out that many of the founda...