You may be familiar with the terms “blue collar” and “white collar” workers. If not, blue collar workers
are known for performing manual labor while white collar workers are connected to work in an office
setting. Blue collar work typically involves less formal education and more skill-based training.
Conversely, white collar work is often associated with bachelor degree programs and advanced
coursework with years of formal education. Jobs in construction and manufacturing are linked to blue
collar work while business and law professions are aligned with white collar work.
In recent years, a new type of worker has emerged as a result of technological changes in the labor
market: “The New Collar Worker.” These workers perform jobs that do not require a bachelor’s degree
but involve highly specialized, technical training. Computer tech jobs are often linked to the “new collar”
field. However, other careers include Registered Nurse, Machinist, and Radiologic Technologist.
Many companies are looking to fill positions in these high-demand, high-paying career fields that require
advanced training but not a bachelor’s degree. However, it is difficult to find workers for these positions
given that the labor market has mostly promoted the four-year college pathway, which does not involve
students learning the technical skills of “new collar” work.
To train for a “new collar” career, you can look into affordable certificate and associate degree programs at
community colleges. Furthermore, some jobs may even be learned through online training programs. It
all depends on the career. Learn more about high-paying “new collar” jobs here. Contact CareerDriven for guidance on exploring “new collar” opportunities!