Bri the Builder Bites: Should You Join the Trades If Your Parents Don’t Support It?
One of the most common questions I get—especially from younger people or career-changers—is this:
“I want to join the trades, but my parents don’t want me to. What should I do?”
So let’s talk about it. Honestly. Without fluff. And without shame.
When Your Parents Say No, But Something in You Says Yes
A lot of parents still come from a mindset where success looks like:
College
A degree
A “safe” office job
And I get it. Most parents want stability for their kids. They want security. They want you to avoid struggle.
But here’s the thing they don’t always see:
The trades are stability.
Skilled trades aren’t a backup plan. They’re a career path. One that:
Can’t be outsourced
Is in constant demand
Builds real, usable skills
Creates opportunities for ownership and independence
If the trades are calling to you, that’s worth listening to.
You Don’t Need Permission to Build a Life You Love
Here’s something I wish more people understood earlier:
You are the one who has to live your life—not your parents.
That doesn’t mean disrespecting them.
It doesn’t mean cutting them off.
It means making thoughtful, informed decisions about your future.
Sometimes parents don’t say no because it’s a bad idea.
They say no because it’s unfamiliar.
What’s the Best Trade to Start In?
If you’re brand new and wondering where to begin, my advice is this:
👉 Start with a trade that lets you learn, move, and see the big picture.
Some solid starting points:
Carpentry – you learn structure, problem-solving, and how buildings actually come together
Electrical or Plumbing (as a helper/apprentice) – high demand, strong earning potential, and clear growth paths
General construction – great exposure before specializing
The “best” trade isn’t about what sounds impressive.
It’s about:
What you can physically handle
What keeps your interest
What gives you room to grow
You can always pivot later. Most people do.
A Trade Is a Skillset — Not a Dead End
One of the biggest myths about the trades is that they’re limiting.
They’re not.
Trades can lead to:
Business ownership
Project management
Consulting
Teaching
Investing
Freedom most desk jobs never offer
But it starts with learning how to work with your hands and your brain.
Final Thoughts
If you’re feeling pulled toward the trades and getting pushback from people you love, pause—but don’t ignore it.
Ask questions.
Learn the industry.
Find mentors.
Get informed.
Then make the decision that aligns with who you are becoming, not just what makes others comfortable.
Have a question you want answered on Bri the Builder Bites?
Drop it in the comments or send it in—I’ll break it down, no gatekeeping.
Best,
Bri Clark
Bri the Builder
Helping homeowners renovate with confidence
I run two Middle Tennessee–based companies that often work together depending on the stage of your project:
🔨 Bri the Builder
Residential construction, remodels, additions, and virtual consulting
👉 Visit: brithebuilder.com
🚜 Bri Excavations
French drains, foundations, utilities, grading, and site prep
👉 Visit: briexcavations.com
Not sure where to start? Book a consult and I’ll help you map it