The Average Blue Collar Worker in Maryland has just 2 College Educated Friends, Finds New Study

Originally published by cherrydigital.

New Study Reveals Disconnect Between Blue Collar Workers and College-Educated Individuals in Maryland.

  • 34% of blue collar workers felt that they were not respected or valued by their college-educated peers.
  • Marylanders without a college degree are more likely to have friends and social connections within their immediate community, rather than outside of it.
  • Infographic included.

A recent study conducted by Cherry Digital, a public relations news agency, has highlighted the disconnect between blue collar workers and college-educated individuals in Maryland. The study, which surveyed a sample of 3,000 blue collar workers, aimed to explore the social and professional connections between individuals with different levels of education.

The results reveal that the average blue collar worker in Maryland reported having just 2 college-educated friends. The majority of respondents reported having little to no interaction with individuals who have attended college, and many said that they did not know anyone with a college degree.

This finding is particularly concerning given the increasing importance of a college education in today’s economy. College graduates are more likely to have access to higher-paying jobs and career advancement opportunities, and are also more likely to be involved in civic and community organizations.

The survey also found that blue collar workers in Maryland are more likely to have friends and social connections within their immediate community, rather than outside of it. This is in contrast to college graduates, who tend to have a more diverse and geographically dispersed network of friends and social connections.

This disconnect has far-reaching implications for the state’s workforce and economy. Research has shown that individuals with diverse social networks and professional connections are more likely to succeed in their careers and have higher earning potential. A lack of interaction and understanding between blue collar workers and college-educated individuals could lead to missed opportunities for career advancement and economic growth.

The study also found that 34% of blue collar workers felt that they were not respected or valued by their college-educated peers. Respondents reported feeling stigmatized and looked down upon by individuals with higher levels of education, which can further contribute to the disconnect.

Some policymakers argue that state governments should enact programs to encourage individuals to make an effort to connect with people from different backgrounds and to actively seek out diverse perspectives. They also say local businesses and organizations should create opportunities for blue collar workers to interact with college-educated individuals. This could include initiatives such as mentorship programs, networking events, and community college classes that are tailored to the needs of blue collar workers.

The study’s lead author, Jamie Clarke, stated that “these findings suggest that blue collar workers are at a disadvantage when it comes to accessing the social and professional networks that can help them succeed in today’s economy.” He adds that, “Without access to these networks, blue collar workers may find it more difficult to find good jobs, advance their careers, and improve their overall quality of life. Breaking down barriers between blue collar workers and college-educated individuals will create a more inclusive and prosperous society for all residents of the state, so it is within everyone’s interest. “