School dropout ditched university for carpentry apprenticeship, now earns £50,000 at 21, targets £100,000 in five years and says AI won’t replace his job

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.