As tariffs raise costs and slow hiring across key industries, Gen Z graduates are entering a workforce growing more uncertain by the month.
Tariffs, which are taxes on imported goods, can significantly disrupt the college-to-career path for Gen Z by increasing economic uncertainty and affecting specific industries. This can lead to hiring freezes, fewer entry-level jobs, and a need for graduates to acquire new skills.
The ripple effect of tariffs goes beyond the immediate price increase of goods. They can slow down the entire economy, causing businesses to become cautious about spending and hiring. This is particularly challenging for new graduates who need entry-level positions to gain experience and pay off student loan debt.
Increased Demand For Domestic Labor
Tariffs can be disruptive, but they may also increase demand for domestic production and skilled labor. This shift could benefit graduates with degrees in engineering or skilled trades, though it may limit remote opportunities they hoped for. Many will need to adjust expectations about where and how they work.
Reduced Hiring In Import-Dependent Sectors
Industries that rely heavily on imported materials, like automotive and electronics manufacturing, face increased costs due to tariffs. These companies may respond by cutting costs, often through hiring freezes or layoffs, which directly impacts the number of entry-level positions available to new graduates with degrees in engineering or supply chain management. A report from the Steel Industry estimates that tariffs could eliminate over 300,000 U.S. jobs.
Supply Chain Disruptions
Tariffs can disrupt global supply chains, making it difficult for businesses to get the parts or products they need. This can lead to production delays and a decrease in business activity. Students with degrees in logistics or operations management may find that the jobs they studied for are less stable as companies adjust to these new trade realities.
Higher Cost Of Living
Tariffs on everyday goods, from electronics to clothing and food, increase the cost of living for everyone, including college students. For Gen Z, who are often already on tight budgets, this makes it harder to afford necessities. Many are struggling with higher prices on laptops and other technology essential for their studies.
Shift In Consumer Spending
With higher prices on imported goods, consumers may reduce their spending, which in turn hurts the retail and hospitality sectors. Students pursuing degrees in marketing, retail management, or hospitality may face a more challenging job market as companies in these fields struggle with lower demand.
Retaliatory Tariffs On U.S. Exports
When the U.S. imposes tariffs, other countries often retaliate with their own tariffs on American goods. This can hurt U.S. companies that export products, leading to job cuts in sectors like agriculture and manufacturing. This impacts graduates in agricultural sciences or international business.
Pressure On Business Profitability
Tariffs can squeeze corporate profits, as companies may be unable to pass all increased costs on to consumers. This financial pressure can lead to a reduction in graduate programs, internships, and entry-level positions. This affects students in a variety of majors, as companies across the board look to cut costs.
Need For New Expertise
The complexity of tariffs and global trade disputes creates demand for new expertise. Companies are now looking for specialists who can navigate these policies. This could create opportunities for graduates with degrees in international relations or economics who have a deep understanding of trade policy and can advise companies on how to mitigate the impact of tariffs.
Reduced Global Mobility
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Tariffs can strain international relations, potentially making it more difficult for students to secure work visas or international internships. This affects those with majors in global studies or foreign languages who were hoping to start their careers abroad.
Higher Costs For Education
Colleges and universities are not immune to the effects of tariffs. The cost of imported lab equipment, furniture, and technology can rise, and these increases are often passed on to students through higher tuition or fees. Schools already face growing expenses for essential items, which adds more strain to students.
Shift Towards Skills-Based Hiring
With the economy in flux, many employers are shifting their focus from degrees to specific, in-demand skills. A 2024 report from the Global Skill Development Council noted that 60% of companies had adopted a skills-based hiring approach, a trend accelerated by economic uncertainty. This means Gen Z may need to supplement their degrees with certifications or vocational training to remain competitive.
More articles:
- They’re not loud—but Gen X is quietly running the economy
- Gen Z is starting to look more like Boomers when it comes to money
- Gen X is struggling more with credit card debt than Gen Z: 12 traps catching the middle class
Disclosure: This article was developed with the assistance of AI and was subsequently reviewed, revised, and approved by our editorial team.
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