08/03/2026
The conversation shouldn’t start with “What is a livable wage?” It should start with, “How do we help more people build skills that earn one?”
I hear people say all the time that everyone deserves a livable wage. I understand the heart behind that. But I think the more important conversation is how we help people develop skills that create lasting value.
When you become highly skilled, you’re no longer competing solely on your time—you’re competing on your expertise. The more problems you can solve, the more valuable you become in the marketplace.
In the trades, we see this every day.
When we need someone with a specialized skill to complete a difficult scope of work, we don’t ask what minimum wage is. We ask, “Who can do the job?” And those people command a premium because they’ve invested years into learning their craft.
The goal shouldn’t be to spend your life hoping someone raises the floor. The goal should be to keep raising your ceiling.
Invest in yourself. Learn a trade. Master a craft. Become someone whose skills are in demand.
A paycheck can be given.
A skill set can’t be taken away.
What do you think—is the better long-term solution raising wages, building skills, or both?
