Young entrepreneurs prove skilled trades can outearn university degrees

Two young entrepreneurs are proving that skilled trades can be both profitable and fulfilling. Zames Chew and his brother built a successful business, Repair.sg, despite early criticism. Their story highlights a growing trend of valuing hands-on work over traditional university paths. Zames Chew started Repair.sg at just 16 years old. He spent €20 on a website domain and began offering repairs, plumbing, electrical work, and ventilation services. By 2024, the company generated €1.1 million in revenue.

Chew and his brother chose to skip university to focus on their business. They faced stigma from family, friends, and strangers for pursuing a trade instead of higher education. Yet, they overcame the criticism and proved the value of skilled work.

Elsewhere, 27-year-old Lexis Czumak-Abreeu switched from aspiring to be a surgeon to becoming an electrician. Now, she earns €180,000 a year and uses social media to promote skilled trades to Gen Z. Her success further challenges outdated perceptions about trade careers. Repair.sg’s growth and Czumak-Abreeu’s high earnings show the potential of skilled trades. Both examples demonstrate that these careers can be lucrative and rewarding. The stories also encourage younger generations to consider alternatives to university education.