In a recent episode of And So It Flows, Roland Ligtenberg, co-founder of Housecall Pro, joined host Kristen Bayles to discuss how AI, changing workforce priorities and evolving technology are driving renewed interest in careers across plumbing, HVAC and other home service trades.

Listen to the full episode

One of the clearest trends, according to Ligtenberg, is a growing reconsideration of career paths among younger workers and even mid-career professionals. As automation increasingly impacts traditional white-collar roles, the trades are being viewed as a more stable and durable option.

“It’s becoming clear that it’s a very viable and a very durable path for a lot of individuals,” Ligtenberg said, noting an uptick in people exploring trade schools and alternative career routes.

This shift is part of what he describes as a broader “blue-collar revolution,” fueled by both economic realities and a long-overdue reassessment of the value of skilled labor. For years, trades were often undervalued or positioned as a fallback option. Today, that perception is beginning to change.

“There’s just such an undersupply of talented labor because historically it’s been so undervalued and under talked about,” Ligtenberg explained. “Now it’s finally coming full circle.”

At the same time, technology is transforming how work gets done within the trades themselves. Rather than replacing skilled labor, AI and digital tools are helping contractors eliminate administrative burdens and focus on the work they were trained to do.

“The things that are considered busy work, that all gets compressed,” Ligtenberg said. “It’s allowing pros to recapture time and put it back into the thing that is truly unique and difficult.”

This evolution is particularly appealing to younger generations entering the workforce. Gen Z workers, in particular, are drawn to roles that offer purpose, independence and tangible impact, qualities that align closely with careers in the trades.

There is also a growing awareness of the financial opportunity within the industry. Social media and increased transparency around earnings are helping reshape outdated perceptions.

“So many of our pros are millionaires, multimillionaires,” Ligtenberg noted. “They’re running seven-figure, eight-figure businesses.”

Another key shift is happening at the business level. As experienced contractors approach retirement, more companies are transitioning to the next generation, whether through family succession or mentorship-based handoffs. At the same time, younger workers are bringing digital tools into traditionally analog operations, modernizing workflows and improving efficiency.

“The majority of our customers still come from pen and paper,” Ligtenberg said. “But, you’re seeing that shift where someone younger comes in and starts digitizing the business.”

Technology is also playing a growing role in training and development. From AI-powered tools to immersive learning platforms, new approaches are making it easier to build skills without the risks associated with hands-on trial and error.

Looking ahead, Ligtenberg sees multiple entry points for those considering a career in the trades. Whether through trade school, apprenticeships or simply starting in an entry-level role, opportunities are expanding, particularly for those willing to combine technical skills with digital fluency.

For those still unsure, his advice is simple: get exposure.

“Put yourself around people in the trades and hear their stories,” he said. “You may surprise yourself.”

As the industry continues to evolve, one thing is becoming increasingly clear. The intersection of technology and skilled labor is not replacing the trades, it is redefining them, and opening the door for a new generation to step in.