Top 10 High Income Skills of 2025 (Based on Real Data)
Published 12 Mar 2023
The Truth About Ditching the Desk for a Blue-Collar Job
Michael Yi 
If your desk job is starting to feel draining or stressful, like Billy’s, maybe it’s time to swap white-collar work for a blue-collar job. Here’s why.Â
Meet Billy, a mature aged carpentry apprentice who decided it was time for a change. After seven years pursuing a white-collar career as a work cover case manager, Billy followed his passion for trade work and hasn’t looked back since. Through a labouring apprenticeship, Billy was able to transition into his dream trade: carpentry.Â
“I feel a lot better about the work that I’m doing. At the end of the day, I actually feel like I’ve accomplished something, and I’ve enjoyed what I’ve done.”
Many people choose to leave the confines of the desk and stressful paper deadlines for the freedom to work with their hands and achieve tangible results. With mature-aged apprenticeships and training opportunities available, age and prior experience are no longer barriers to making this exciting career shift.
We spoke to Billy about what his transition from a desk job to blue-collar work was like — and why it might be just the answer you’ve been looking for.Â
Why it’s time to make the change
Billy was feeling the negative impact an unfulfilling white-collar job was having on his mental health. This pushed him to decide to leave his position as a work cover case manager.
“It was a very stressful position. It was probably something I should have never really gotten into. I was never well suited to it.”
Many white-collar workers identify their jobs as stressful, largely due to reported difficulty switching off after work hours.Â
“The pressure of the volume of the work, I just couldn’t keep up with it…I had to be honest with myself and say, ‘This has been going on for a long time in different positions, in different companies. So, it’s clearly me that’s the issue. It’s not the right field for me anymore.'”
 After leaving his job as a casework manager, Billy began applying for other positions in related fields. During this time, he realised it was time to direct his efforts towards roles that would actually make him happy.Â
“In the end, I was like ‘Well, I may as well use this as an opportunity to chase something that I actually want to do, rather than chasing a job just for the money”.
Choosing your blue-collar career
For some, trade knowledge is inherently part of their skill set. Maybe your parents dragged you into helping to fix up things around the house when you were a child. Maybe you took woodwork in school, or maybe you’ve always had an affinity for tinkering and fixing. Whatever the reason, it’s important you choose a blue-collar pathway that will bring you the most satisfaction and joy.
For Billy, this was carpentry.
“As an adult, I’ve enjoyed working with my hands. Just little things like building fences at home and fixing up cupboards, I just wanted to keep learning more.”
“I just found doing little odd jobs around the home, and watching the construction process during my (home’s) renovation I was like, ‘well, that’s something I could do and enjoy.'”
To work in most trades, you’ll need to complete an apprenticeship. This will give you paid on-the-job training and a support system to see you through to becoming a licensed trade professional. Many professionals making this career shift will complete a pre-apprenticeship to brush up on all the basic skills and knowledge required to feel confident and ready.Â
Billy chose to complete a pre-apprenticeship in labouring, which allowed him to land a mature-aged carpentry apprenticeship successfully.
“The intention was always to get a position in carpentry. Labouring as a way to introduce myself and show mobilities and work ethic and things like that, in a way that didn’t amount to a commitment on the employer’s part. And, that worked out very well.”
More blue-collar career pathways
Being a newbie
It’s important to remember that moving into a completely new industry means that you’re starting again. This can be daunting and frustrating. But don’t let this put you off.
“You gotta find that balance of having some experience in the world and understanding that you’re starting at 0.”
Transitioning into blue-collar work means combining your years of experience in the workforce with actively learning completely new skills. You will most likely take a salary cut, and like Billy says:
“Everyone is at 0 until they’ve proven themselves and done some time.”
The differences
“It’s very rare that there’s any stress. I don’t feel any particular stress that I don’t feel like I can deal with, that I can’t manage.”
Billy now knows and feels the difference between stressful versus challenging work and how one keeps him excited to work while the other left him unhappy.
“There are times when it’s really hard. You’re covered in sweat and dirt and coughing up dust. But, even still, I’m still quite happy doing it again. I enjoy the labour side of the job. I enjoy the learning and taking on new skills. That’s something I’ve always enjoyed when I was very young.”
Blue-collar work is more physically demanding than its white-collar counterpart and may leave you sore and tired at the end of the day. However, for some, the fulfilment they receive from a hard day’s work is a healthier alternative to the stress they feel behind a desk.
“For the most part, I enjoy the doing of the work.”
If this sounds like you, it’s time to make the change.Â
Don’t let your white-collar background deter you from jumping into a hands-on, active career. If you’re feeling drained and unmotivated, or you’re just ready for the next adventure that can offer you more, it’s time to consider your blue-collar options.
Begin your fresh start today.
Find the best trade courses that fit you and your needs.
Browse Building and Construction Results
Top Result
Diploma of Nursing (SA Only) HLT54121
Build a meaningful career that makes a difference with the HLT54121 Diploma of Nursing. This nationally recognised qualification provides the essential skills, knowledge, and practical training needed to become a qualified Enrolled Nurse in Australia....
in partnership with
Study Method Blended
Location Adelaide South Australia
Job Outcomes Enrolled Nurse
in partnership with
Graduate Diploma in Management
The Graduate Diploma in Management is an online postgraduate qualification that is ideal for busy senior managers, with a potential entry pathway through any of our Graduate Certificates and study that is highly supported, fits into your schedule, and...
Study Method Blended, Online, Virtual
Location Canberra ACT +6
Job Outcomes People Management +3
Graduate Certificate in Management
The Graduate Certificate in Management is an online postgraduate qualification that is designed for newer and ambitious professionals, with entry possible through management experience alone and a study structure that easily accommodates full-time work...
Study Method Blended, Online, Virtual
Location Adelaide South Australia +4
Job Outcomes People Management +3
Bachelor of Dance Education (NSW Only)
The Bachelor of Dance Education is a unique specialist professional qualification and is Australia’s first–being delivered through ACPE! Units are provided by highly qualified and experienced professionals, empowering you with all the knowledge and ski...
Study Method Blended, In-class
Location Sydney New South Wales
Job Outcomes Dance teacher (secondary sch... +4
Bachelor of Education (Physical & Health Education) (NSW Only)
The Bachelor of Education (Physical & Health Education) incorporates units in movement and health as well as curriculum and pedagogical studies, equipping you with the requisite skills for entering the teaching profession. If you are keen to pursue...
Study Method Blended, In-class, Online
Location Sydney New South Wales
Job Outcomes PDHPE secondary teacher +4
Associate Degree of Sport Business (NSW Only)
Get a higher education qualification in two years when studying full-time! Based on the Bachelor of Sport Business in terms of content, the Associate Degree of Sport Business offers students the opportunity to get into the workforce quicker or alternat...
Study Method Blended, In-class, Online, Virtual
Location Sydney New South Wales
Job Outcomes Sport manager +4
Bachelor of Dance Practice (NSW Only)
The Bachelor of Dance Practice is a specialised degree that will equip you with the skills and experience to become a professional in the dance industry. The course develops artistry, choreography, performance, educational, business, and organisational...
Study Method Blended, In-class
Location Sydney New South Wales
Job Outcomes Dance artist (company dancer... +9
Bachelor of Health Science (Exercise) (NSW Only)
The Bachelor of Health Science (Exercise) offers the perfect career path for those looking to enhance their knowledge and skills through further studies in physiotherapy, exercise physiology, and other health professions. You will come to understand ho...
Study Method Blended, In-class, Online
Location Sydney New South Wales
Job Outcomes Exercise scientist +4
Bachelor of Sports Coaching (Strength and Conditioning) (NSW Only)
To address the high demand for sport coaches and professionals in Australia, the Bachelor of Sport Coaching (Strength and Conditioning) is a specialist degree fostering the coaching, administrative, and professional skills necessary for a fulfilling ca...
Study Method Blended, In-class, Online
Location Sydney New South Wales
Job Outcomes Director of coaching +5
Bachelor of Sport Business (Leadership)
Turn your passion for sport into a career by immersing yourself in a degree that will broaden your theoretical and technical knowledge, so that you are fully equipped fora management role within the sport industry. The Bachelor of Sport Business (Leade...
Study Method Blended, In-class, Online, Virtual
Location Anywhere
Job Outcomes Sport manager +5
Certificate III in Fitness SIS30321
If you’re looking to begin your career in the fitness industry, studying the SIS30321 Certificate III in Fitness is the perfect qualification to get you started. Gain all the knowledge and skills you need to enter the industry as a Gym Instructor or Gr...
Study Method Blended, In-class, Online
Location Melbourne Victoria
Personal Trainer Course SIS30321,SIS40221
Join the fitness industry as a Personal Trainer and turn your love for fitness into a rewarding career by graduating in both the SIS30321 Certificate III in Fitness & SIS40221 Certificate IV in Fitness. Enjoy the flexibility of being your own boss...
Study Method Blended, In-class, Online
Location New South Wales +6
Certificate IV in Fitness SIS40221
Take the next step in your career and gain the qualification you need to become a Personal Trainer. If you currently work in the fitness industry as a Gym or Group Fitness Instructor, elevate yourself to the next level by studying the SIS40221 Certific...
Study Method Blended, In-class, Online
Location Melbourne Victoria
Bachelor of Health Science (Naturopathy)
Naturopathy is a whole medical system combining theory (philosophy and principles) and practise that uses an array of natural therapies to support healing and maintain health. Naturopaths aim to treat the underlying causes of illness and disease. The c...
Study Method Blended
Location Adelaide South Australia +5
Job Outcomes Naturopath
Bachelor of Health Science (Clinical Nutrition)
Clinical nutritionists integrate traditional food wisdom and current scientific evidence to motivate individuals and communities to eat well and live healthier lives. The Bachelor of Health Science (Clinical Nutrition) is supported by a strong underpin...
Study Method Blended
Location Adelaide South Australia +5
Job Outcomes Clinical Nutritionist corpor... +1
Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing OR Disability) (Perth Only) CHC33021
If you have a passion for helping those most in need, this qualification is one way you can utilise your knowledge for the benefit of others. Package the Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing or Disability) (CHC33021) to save time and gain know...
Study Method In-class
Location Perth Western Australia +2
Job Outcomes Care Assistant +4
Certificate lll in Early Childhood Education & Care (Perth Only) CHC30121
If you love working with children and want to learn more about providing quality education and care in a range of environments, this course is for you. The Certificate lll in Early Childhood Education and Care (CHC30121) can provide you with an entry-l...
Study Method In-class
Location Perth Western Australia +2
Job Outcomes Early Childhood Educator +2
Certificate III in Community Services (Perth Only) CHC32015
Are you a natural when it comes to providing guidance to people? Would you like to kick start a career in Community Services? The Certificate III in Community Services (CHC32015) is the perfect entry-level qualification for prospective Community Servic...
Study Method Blended, In-class
Location Perth Western Australia +1
Job Outcomes Support Worker +1
Certificate III in Individual Support (Disability) (SA Only) CHC33021
The Certificate III in Individual Support (Disability) is designed to equip you with the practical skills and knowledge to support people living with disability in a variety of care settings. With a focus on person-centred support, you’ll learn how to...
in partnership with
Study Method Blended
Location South Australia
Job Outcomes Disability Support Worker
in partnership with
Certificate III in Non-Emergency Patient Transport (VIC Only) HLT31120
Our Promise We are confident in the delivery of our training. On successful completion of the course, graduates will be guaranteed a telephone interview for vacant Patient Transport Officer positions in the Non-Emergency Patient Transport division. So...
Study Method Blended
Location Melbourne Victoria
Online courses also available
Loading...
Not sure which course to choose? Let us recommend the best courses to suit you!
Subscribe to Our Newsletter
Get expert advice, insights, and explainers on tricky topics — designed to help you navigate your learning journey with confidence.
By submitting this enquiry I accept the "Privacy Policy" and "Terms of Use"
