How to Become a Data Analyst in Australia
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
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
Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing) CHC33021
Get started in a career in aged care with our nationally recognised CHC33021 Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing). You’ll gain the skills, knowledge and professional attributes to care for and support people living in residential care facilit...
Study Method Blended, Online
Location Anywhere
Job Outcomes Care Supervisor +1
Certificate III in Community Services (Perth Only) CHC32015
The Certificate III in Community Services is perfect for entry level community services workers who support individuals through the provision of person-centred services. Work may include day-to-day support of individuals in community settings or suppor...
Study Method In-class
Location Western Australia
Job Outcomes Community Support Worker +3
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 In-class, Online
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 In-class, Online
Location Adelaide South Australia +5
Job Outcomes Clinical Nutritionist corpor... +1
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 In-class
Location Melbourne Victoria
Job Outcomes Patient Transport Officer
Certificate III in Individual Support (Perth Only) CHC33021
This qualification is for those who want to work in the community or in a residential setting, following a customised plan to give person-centred assistance to individuals who may need it due to ageing, disability or other circumstances. Work involves...
Study Method In-class
Location Perth Western Australia
Job Outcomes Aged Care Worker +4
Certificate III in Allied Health Assistance (Perth Only) HLT33021
Are you interested in entering the health services industry? This nationally recognised qualification will allow you to enter into one of the most rewarding and enjoyable careers! When studying this course, you will gain knowledge in a range of fields...
Study Method In-class
Location Perth Western Australia
Job Outcomes Podiatrist Aide +3
Bachelor of Health Science (Acupuncture Therapies)
Acupuncture is a branch of Chinese Medicine that stimulates specific points on the body to regulate the flow of Qi (vital energy) to restore health and balance the functions of the body, mind and spirit. Acupuncture therapies combines Chinese medicine...
Study Method In-class, Online
Location Adelaide South Australia +5
Job Outcomes Acupuncture +4
Bachelor of Health Science (Chinese Medicine)
Chinese medicine is a whole medical system that seeks to balance the functions of the body, mind and spirit and restore health. It combines theory (philosophies and principles) and practices including acupuncture, moxibustion, medical Qi Gong, Chinese...
Study Method In-class, Online
Location Adelaide South Australia +5
Job Outcomes Acupuncturist +2
Diploma of Beauty Therapy (QLD Only) SHB50121
Turn your passion for beauty into a career that actually goes somewhere. The SHB50121 Diploma of Beauty Therapy is Demi International’s comprehensive beauty course — covering everything from skin science and facial treatments to massage, hair rem...
Study Method In-class, Online
Location Brisbane Queensland +4
Job Outcomes Graduates of the Diploma of ... +9
Certificate III in Hairdressing Course (QLD Only) SHB30416
Hairdressing is one of those careers where you see the impact of your work every single day — in the mirror, and on the face of your client. The SHB30416 Certificate III in Hairdressing gives you the technical skills and creative foundation to start yo...
Study Method In-class, Online
Location Brisbane Queensland +4
Job Outcomes A Certificate III in Hairdre... +6
Certificate III in Hospitality (Perth Only) SIT30622
The SIT30622 Certificate III in Hospitality is the perfect qualification for those looking for a career in hospitality including working as barista, bar attendant, waiter/waitress. Whether you imagine working in a restaurant, hotel, motel, funky bar, c...
Study Method In-class
Location Western Australia
Job Outcomes Barista +3
Diploma of Sustainable Operations MSS50122
Looking to develop your skills to manage and measure your organisation’s carbon footprint? By studying this course, you will be equipped with the technical and theoretical skills to ensure your organisation is adhering and optimising its sustainability...
Study Method In-class, Online
Location Anywhere
Certificate III in Individual Support (Perth Only) CHC33021
The Certificate III in Individual Support equips students with the skills and knowledge to provide person-centred care to individuals in aged care, disability, or community settings. This course is ideal for those passionate about supporting people to...
Study Method In-class
Location Perth Western Australia
Job Outcomes Care Supervisor +1
Bachelor of Cyber Security (VIC, NSW, QLD and WA Only) CRS1401441
The Bachelor of Cyber Security offered by AIBI Higher Education is a technical course designed to prepare students for entry-level roles leading to an exciting career in Cyber Security. Students will first learn the foundations of information technolog...
Study Method In-class
Location Brisbane Queensland +3
Job Outcomes Entry-level Cybersecurity An... +4
Certificate III in Early Childhood Education & Care (Perth Only) CHC30121
To work in Early Childhood Education and Care you are required to have an Education and Care qualification. With our Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care qualification you will gain skills and knowledge to work in a range of early chil...
Study Method In-class
Location Perth Western Australia
Job Outcomes Early Childhood Educator +4
Certificate III in Fitness SIS30321
This exciting course is the fitness industry’s entry-level qualification and it provides a thorough education on the human body, and the best & safest techniques for maximising its potential. With a Certificate III in Fitness you will gain the know...
Study Method In-class, Online
Location Adelaide South Australia +9
Job Outcomes Gym & Fitness Instructor +2
Complete Personal Trainer Program – Certificates III & IV in Fitness SIS30321,SIS40221
Our Personal Trainer Program is a combined Certificate III and Certificate IV in Fitness course that is simply the very best way to become a fully qualified personal trainer. NHFA is devoted to excellence in teaching, learning, implementation, and to d...
Study Method In-class, Online
Location Adelaide South Australia +9
Job Outcomes Personal Trainer +1
Certificate IV in Fitness SIS40221
This course is specifically designed to build on the knowledge and skills gained in a Certificate III in Fitness, and to equip you with a complete understanding of how to train and inspire your own clients to achieve optimum results. You will use a div...
Study Method In-class, Online
Location Adelaide South Australia +9
Job Outcomes Personal Trainer
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"
