At 21, school dropout earns £50,000 after choosing carpentry over university
A 21-year-old school dropout who rejected university for a carpentry apprenticeship now earns up to £50,000 a year. Hugo Helms says his trade offers financial independence and peace of mind from AI replacing his work. He is saving for his first home, runs a business supporting apprentices and hopes to reach £100,000 within five years.
Hugo Helms, a 21-year-old school dropout from Portsmouth, Hampshire, has defied expectations by becoming a fully qualified carpenter and earning up to £50,000 annually. Hugo chose a carpentry apprenticeship over university, stating that leaving school was the "best decision" he has ever made. His father, a successful business owner, encouraged him to pursue this trade.
Hugo has used his earnings to save for his first home and continues to invest in his carpentry business, which includes building various elements in homes such as wardrobes, kitchens, and roofs. Hugo believes his trade career offers a sense of responsibility and independence that university studies do not provide, and he hopes to help other young people recognize the value of the trades as a respected career path.
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