In This Article
The narrative is shifting. For decades, the path to success was clear: go to college, get a degree, get a corporate job. In 2026, that formula is breaking down — and tradespeople are emerging as the unlikely winners.
The Numbers Don't Lie
The average college graduate starts their career with $35,000+ in student debt and an entry-level salary of $55,000-$65,000. The average skilled tradesperson has zero debt, starts earning immediately, and can build a solid full-time income within a few years.
When you factor in student debt, a tradesperson who starts earning at 20 is often $200,000+ ahead of a college graduate by age 30. That's the combined effect of no debt + earlier income.
Demand for Skilled Trades Is Exploding
America faces a critical shortage of skilled tradespeople. An entire generation was funneled into college instead of trades, creating a massive supply gap. Electricians, plumbers, and yes — window tinters — are in high demand with not enough people to fill the need.
Window Tinting: The Modern Trade
Window tinting is uniquely positioned among the trades. It has the lowest barrier to entry, the highest margins, and the fastest path to profitability. You don't need 4 years of apprenticeship — you need 4-8 weeks of training and practice.
Our students — many of whom chose tinting over (or after) college — are building profitable businesses while their degree-holding peers are still paying off loans. The trades aren't a consolation prize — they're the fast track.
The Ownership Advantage
Perhaps the biggest difference: tradespeople own their income. When you run your own tinting business, there's no salary cap, no waiting for promotions, and no boss deciding what you're worth. Your income is directly tied to your effort, skill, and ambition. In the corporate world, your income is tied to someone else's budget.
Ready to Start Your Tinting Career?
Join 3,000+ graduates who turned window tinting into a full-time income.
