In 2018, the average cost for an out of state college student was 25,000 dollars. After factoring in room and board, the cost exceeds 40,000 dollars. This rising cost for a four year degree has some students exiting High School and looking at the skilled trades as a potential career. Anne Lassere , a builder in Charlottesville, Virginia says that this debt can be crippling to a young adult. she touts apprenticeships as a viable alternative to training.