Brian Evans: Don’t discount the value of a college education
Published 1:30 am Saturday, June 26, 2021
By Brian Evans / Herald Forum
I was disappointed to read a recent letter to the editor in The Herald that questioned the value of a college education compared to training in the trades. I was not disappointed because I don’t think the trades are an important or worthy profession; they most certainly are.
However, to infer that a college degree is no longer valuable is certainly not backed by fact, and to suggest that a college degree is undesirable in today’s economy is inaccurate. According to the 2019 Census Bureau report, the average annual earnings of a worker over 18 is about $40,000 for a high school graduate, $73,000 for a bachelor’s degree, and $106,000 for an advanced degree. These are the figures; “numbers don’t lie.”
Personally, I grew up on farms in Skagit County. I tried the trade of farming, but I may be the worst person on the planet at using tools and equipment. My brain isn’t geared that way. I tell my own children to “find their lane.” Your lane is probably what you enjoy, are good at doing, and that pays well enough for your financial goals.
There may be a place for everyone in higher education. Saying otherwise undermines the ability to reach those whose lives can be most transformed with a college degree, particularly first-generation college students, and those experiencing poverty. To be clear, I just identified most of the people here in Snohomish County, and most of our current and future workforce.
Snohomish County has among the lowest degree attainment rates in the state. That means we have never seen the strength of a local economy powered by a homegrown, appropriately educated workforce. Suggesting that college isn’t for everyone only encourages closing paths to success for our kids.
College is an investment. It is an investment of time and money by a student and their family. It is an investment by our community to create the opportunity for industry training that takes an individual from a worker to an expert and a leader. It is a worthy investment in community involvement and leadership opportunities that will influence the trajectory of our children’s lives forever.
The world’s challenges are getting more complex, not less complex. A college degree cultivates the skills and critical thinking essential to make an impact in a world full of complex challenges. I’m glad this failed farmer chose a four-year degree at Washington State University many years ago. I now employ over 30 people in the Snohomish County area with a very high average wage.
Brian Evans, CPA/PFS owns Bauer Evans, CPAs and Madrona Financial Services, both based in Everett. He is also the host of Growing Your Wealth, heard daily on KIRO, KOMO, KVI and KTTH.
