While artificial intelligence reshapes the world of work, there’s one high-paying job that’s not only weathering the storm but thriving—and it’s not what you’d expect.
Manual labour makes a comeback
In a time when the economy feels as unpredictable as the British weather and AI seems poised to replace half of us at the office, it’s easy to feel a bit anxious about job security. Many employers are tightening their belts, with nearly a third putting hiring plans on ice. And with diplomas multiplying faster than inbox spam, even the highly qualified are struggling to stand out.
Yet, amidst the gloom, there’s a quietly booming profession that’s dodging the digital axe. Spoiler: it’s not about coding or crunching data. It’s about getting your hands a little dirty—in the best possible way.
The surprising rise of the electrician
Forget the stereotypical image of trades being old-fashioned or underappreciated. Electricians are having a real moment. They’re in demand, well-compensated, and increasingly sought after by people looking for solid, future-proof careers.
Recent data shows that manual and craft professions have seen a 15% increase in demand over the past three years. And among the sea of plumbers, welders, and builders, one trade shines brighter than the rest: electrician. With an average of 6,600 online searches each month for “how to become an electrician,” it seems many are already rethinking their career paths.
The reason is simple. Our homes are smarter, our gadgets are multiplying, and the demand for skilled professionals who can wire it all together is only going up. Whether it’s installing solar panels or reconfiguring a dodgy fuse box, electricians are the backbone of the energy transition—and people are noticing.
The money’s not too shabby either
Here’s the bit that might really make you consider a career U-turn: the pay. Starting salaries for electricians in France sit between €1,800 and €2,500 gross per month, which is already respectable. But if you decide to go solo and build a solid reputation? That number can soar.
According to job experts, self-employed electricians can earn over €4,000 a month, depending on their skills and visibility. Think about that: a stable income, freedom to choose your clients, and no boss breathing down your neck—tempting, isn’t it?
So, why now?
It’s not just about the money. There’s a growing cultural shift, a kind of reappreciation for jobs that involve real-world, practical skills. In a world where so many of us spend hours glued to screens, there’s something deeply satisfying about doing work that’s tangible—flipping a switch and seeing the lights come on.
Plus, this is a career AI isn’t coming for anytime soon. You can’t download someone to rewire your kitchen. It’s a job that’s still all about human know-how, judgement, and a good pair of hands.
Is it right for you?
If you’re after a career change, have a logical mind and a knack for fixing things, this could be your golden ticket. Training options are increasingly accessible, and with demand growing, the opportunities aren’t likely to disappear overnight.
And if nothing else, at least you’ll never have to ring up a pricey electrician again—because you’ll be the one sending the invoice. Not bad for a profession once seen as a backup plan.
