New Research from Manufacturing Corporation of America Shows Gen Z Misjudges Blue-Collar Work

elizabeth • November 18, 2025


Misconceptions around opportunity, cleanliness, safety and technology deter younger generations from manufacturing careers 


MIAMI — Nov. 19, 2025 —  New research from the Manufacturing Corporation of America (MCA) reveals a striking disconnect in how Americans view today's manufacturing sector. Despite offering opportunities for high-tech, clean, flexible and well-paying careers, the industry continues to struggle with an outdated image problem: younger generations still envision factory floors as dirty, dangerous, and technologically backward, as if lifted straight out of a Charles Dickens novel. 


“People assume manufacturing is old, archaic and doesn’t involve much technology, but that couldn’t be further from the truth,” said Jerry Bailey, president of manufacturing at MCA, an investor-owned, industrial-focused business dedicated to revitalizing American manufacturing. “Modern manufacturing jobs are not defined as working on an assembly line or doing heavy lifting. Instead, they often involve highly skilled work that involves interfacing with modern tech, such as robotics. Manufacturing jobs are much more mentally challenging and less physically demanding, embracing innovation, safety, flexibility and opportunity.” 


The Perception Gap 

The survey uncovered deep-rooted misconceptions: 

● 20% of Americans – and 25% of women – say they’re not at all familiar with what modern blue-collar work actually involves 

● 62% of respondents believe schools and society push Gen Z away from the trades 

● 60% of 18–24-year-olds believe their generation looks down on blue-collar work 

● When asked what would make hands-on, skilled trade careers more appealing to younger generations, 38% cited higher starting pay, 17% mentioned modern tools and tech and 13% pointed to less negative stigma and greater social respect 


Reality vs. Perception

These findings highlight the urgent need to “rebrand the trades” and replace outdated stereotypes with an accurate view of modern manufacturing, an industry that is technologically advanced, vital to the economy and increasingly flexible, with many facilities now offering four-day workweeks. The rise of AI-driven manufacturing has created strong demand for skilled workers who earn competitive wages without the burden of debt for advanced degrees. Yet, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, more than half a million manufacturing positions remain unfilled nationwide. 


“Because of outdated perceptions, Gen Z has been taught to reject blue-collar work,” Bailey added. “The challenge now is to reshape the narrative and show that a modern trade career offers stability, creativity and real opportunity. At MCA, we are positioned to lead the effort to reshape that perception and ensure the next generation of workers, and the public at large, understand the opportunities in manufacturing and the critical role of trades in shaping America’s future.” 


About Manufacturing Corporation of America 

Manufacturing Corporation of America (MCA) is dedicated to securing the future of the American industrial base by strategically acquiring successful legacy industrial manufacturing businesses. Our goal is to preserve their heritage and expertise while fostering innovation and growth in the dynamic industrial landscape. With each strategic acquisition, MCA strengthens its position as an industry leader and contributes to the prosperity of American manufacturing. For more information, visit our website: https://www.madebymca.com/ 


Media Contact 

Sam Brancato PRforRevitalizationUnlimited@bospar.com 



September 17, 2026
HUNKER, Pa. — Sept. 18, 2026 — TRUKD, the Pennsylvania-based innovator behind modular truck bed rack systems and overland-ready accessories, today announced the launch of its Pop Out Shower Awning, designed to solve a common limitation of traditional vehicle-mounted shower enclosures: limited access to vehicle doors, storage and gear while the enclosure is deployed. The Pop Out Shower Awning uses a proprietary, fully boxed aluminum structure and gas-strut- assisted arm that extends directly from the vehicle, providing 12 inches of much-needed additional clearance beyond what traditional shower awnings offer. The result is a more spacious enclosure with greater privacy while preserving access to the vehicle and gear. “TRUKD engineered the Pop Out to solve a problem the category has ignored: forcing users to choose between privacy and access to their gear,” said Ben Azzam, President of TRUKD. “The Pop Out gives overlanders more usable space without making the vehicle less accessible and reflects TRUKD's broader mission to make truck-based outdoor living more functional.” Built for Strength, Stability and Access Designed for overlanders and off-grid campers who need extra room in their shower awning systems, TRUKD’s Pop Out model combines a rigid aluminum structure with hardware designed for repeated deployment in demanding outdoor environments. Key features include: ● Pop-out design for total gear and door access while the shower enclosure is deployed ● Gas-strut assisted, effortless deployment ● Fully boxed aluminum construction, maximum rigidity, minimum weight ● ⅜-inch, full-length stainless steel hinge pin with a lifetime warranty ● Locking plunger pin keeps the arm securely closed while traveling ● Durable textured black powder coat finish ● Universal fit for most standard awning mounts and shower awnings ● Backed by TRUKD's engineering-led, lifetime-warranty product philosophy Reengineering the Traditional Shower Awning The Pop Out Shower Awning was developed in response to a fundamental limitation in conventional shower enclosure designs: users are often positioned directly against the side of their vehicle, making it difficult to open doors, reach storage, or access equipment while the enclosure is in use. “The Pop Out Shower Awning design concept is a structural rethink of a product category that hasn’t changed much,” Azzam said. “Traditional shower enclosures keep users tight against the vehicle, often limiting access to doors, storage and gear, an issue the additional foot of space the Pop Out Shower Awning eliminates.” Addressing a Growing Demand TRUKD’s launch comes as the overlanding market continues to grow, shifting from a niche pursuit to a mainstream outdoor activity, and dovetails with the company’s target audience of overland travelers and off-grid campers who already run shower/awning setups and desire a more functional, durable solution. Industry research from Overland Expo's 2025 Overland Industry Report states U.S. overlanding participation includes about 12 million people in 2025, up from 8 million in 2024, with intermediate overlanders (those with one to five years of experience), now comprising the market's core and its heaviest spenders on gear and vehicle upgrades. Availability The TRUKD Pop Out Shower Awning is priced at $549 and will begin shipping early in Q4 2026. For more information, visit gettrukd.com . About TRUKD TRUKD, an MCA Company, designs and manufactures premium modular truck bed rack systems built for adaptability, strength and real-world performance. Engineered for overlanding, work and adventure, TRUKD systems are constructed from USA-made aluminum and stainless steel to deliver exceptional durability without unnecessary weight. Designed and manufactured in Pennsylvania, every TRUKD system is built to evolve — expanding, reconfiguring and integrating seamlessly as truck owners’ needs change. From rooftop tents and recovery gear to job site equipment and everyday utility, TRUKD creates modular solutions trusted by overlanders, outdoor enthusiasts and hardworking truck owners across the country. Media Contact Sam Brancato PRforRevitalizationUnlimited@bospar.com
By Lalit S • August 31, 2026
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