Skilled trades are making a comeback — and this time, they’re backed by a new federal law that could make it easier to afford the training you need.

The U.S. just passed a major education funding reform as part of the “One Big Beautiful Bill,” and tucked inside it is a powerful change to how 529 education savings plans can be used. For the first time, these plans now cover job-focused trade programs, not just traditional college degrees.

This is the moment when trade careers are re-entering the spotlight. They’re respected, essential, and often pay more than entry-level office jobs — without the four-year wait.

And now, it just got a little easier to afford them.

What Changed — And Why It Matters Now

Manufacturing is making a comeback in America. Across industries, companies are building again — right here at home.

And that’s created a problem: we don’t have enough skilled workers to keep up.

Tradespeople are retiring faster than they’re being replaced. Welders, machinists, maintenance techs, and electricians are in short supply. At the same time, a lot of Americans are rethinking college — especially as tuition costs keep climbing and debt piles up.

This is the moment when trade careers are re-entering the spotlight. They’re respected, they’re essential, and they often pay more than entry-level office jobs — without the four-year wait.

That’s why Congress expanded how 529 education savings can be used.
The old rules were made for a different economy. The new rules reflect what’s really needed now: more access to hands-on, job-ready training.

So, What Is a 529 Plan?

A 529 plan is a tax-advantaged savings account designed to help families pay for education. Until now, that mostly meant tuition at four-year colleges or universities.

But under the new law, certain trade programs now count too. If a program leads to an industry-recognized credential — and it’s listed in state directories, military credentialing portals, or vetted by the Department of Labor — you may be able to use a 529 plan to help cover:

Tuition and fees
Required books, supplies, and equipment
Testing or licensing costs
Continuing education needed to maintain a credential

That opens the door to career paths that were previously out of reach for many families.

Who This Helps — and How

Let’s say you want to become a certified CNC operator, a maintenance technician, or even a CDL truck driver. These jobs are in high demand, pay well, and usually take months — not years — to qualify for. Now, if you or your family have a 529 plan, you may be able to use those funds to pay for training.

You could go from saving for college… to funding your skilled trade career instead.

And if you're a parent or grandparent who has money saved in a 529 for your child, you now have more flexibility to support them in choosing the path that fits them best — not just the one that fits an outdated system.

Want to See What’s Possible?

If you're wondering which careers are worth pursuing, check out these resources:

These aren’t “fallback” careers — they’re serious, high-opportunity jobs that keep the country running and the economy growing.

But What If You Don’t Have a 529 Plan?

Don’t worry. A lot of people don’t. You’re not behind — and this law still benefits you indirectly.

It’s part of a larger shift in how the workforce is being shaped. More people are choosing trades. More funding is opening up. And more employers are recognizing the value of job-ready, certified talent — with or without a degree.

Plus, many of the programs eligible under this new law are also:

Eligible for WIOA training funds
Covered under GI Bill benefits
Available through community colleges and union apprenticeships

In other words, there are more ways than ever to get trained — and get hired.

Ready to Make Your Move?

Here’s how to take advantage of the new rules:

Check your 529 plan – See how much is saved and who the beneficiary is.
Find an eligible program – Search your state workforce board for recognized certifications and apprenticeships.
Talk to an advisor – Make sure your training is qualified under the new rule.
Enroll and get certified — or start working now and train as you go.
Either way, we’ll help you turn your effort into a real career.