Boom in Job Market Lifts Non‑College Workers While Grads Lag

A Burning Glass Institute analysis finds unemployment for 22–34-year-olds without a college degree at multi‑decade lows, while degree‑holders—especially those with advanced degrees or STEM backgrounds—face a tougher stretch as blue‑collar and service jobs surge. Factors include an aging skilled‑trades workforce, slower immigration, and AI taking on entry‑level tasks. August payrolls rose by 162,000 with restaurants adding 59,000, underscoring growth in non‑college sectors, though the raw numbers mask a shrinking gap between degree and non‑degree workers. Experts warn the trend could be temporary and urge new grads to stay flexible and even consider trades as a hedge against volatility.