A nationally representative survey of more than 1000 people by Plumbing World revealed 72% were concerned AI would reduce entry-level office roles over the next decade.
As uncertainty surrounding traditional career pathways increased, 76% of respondents believed a specialised trade provided greater long-term stability than a corporate-focused university degree.
Plumbing World parent company NZPM Co-operative chief executive Brett Cruickshank said the findings reflected a shift in how New Zealanders viewed their future options.
‘‘What we are seeing is a renewed appreciation for careers that are hands-on, highly skilled and essential to our communities,’’ Mr Cruickshank said.
‘‘That is something the trades have always offered.’’
In response to the rising interest, Plumbing World added an apprentice category to its Young Plumber of the Year competition for the first time in its nine-year history.
‘‘By introducing an Apprentice category this year, we are encouraging newer members of our plumbing community to get involved, meet like-minded colleagues and build a career with real, long-term potential,’’ he said.
She will compete at the Queenstown Southern regional finals in August and, if successful, will advance to the Hamilton national final in October.
Ms Pearce works for local plumbing, drainage, electrical and gas fitting company Adams.
AI was a tool she used but she believed it would never replace her practical role.
‘‘I have used Chat GPT before if I don’t quite understand something,’’ Ms Pearce said.
‘‘I will be like, oh, I have got this problem ... What could it be?
‘‘So I have used it, but I have never actually, you know, it is never going to take my job.’’
The technology helped save time during problem-solving at work, she said.
‘‘Instead of me going through 10 different websites to try and find what I am looking for, you normally just put in your model number of what it is and or whatever brand it is and they give up all these options.’’
The sector provided absolute employment security and global opportunities, she said.
‘‘I am pretty much set for life, eh? I mean, I can travel anywhere.’’
Ms Pearce said the trade offered continuous pathways for learning, which had kept her coming back to the Young Plumber of the Year competition.
Despite AI rapidly advancing, Ms Pearce remained confident about the need for skilled plumbers in the future.
‘‘I am still going to have plenty to do for sure, definitely.’’
