Student Loan Repayments Start May 5th: Time to Pivot.

Student Loan Payments Restart May 5th: Pivot to Manufacturing for a Stable Future

As federal student loan collections resume on May 5th, many borrowers face a harsh reality: defaulted loans are back on the table, and for some, degrees haven’t delivered the expected financial return. The U.S. Department of Education announced that involuntary collections, including wage garnishment and seizure of tax refunds or Social Security benefits, will restart for over 5 million borrowers in default, marking the end of a pandemic-era pause that began in March 2020. Read more about the May 5th restart here.

With this financial pressure looming, now is an opportune time to reassess career paths—especially if your degree feels like a costly misstep. Manufacturing is a promising alternative. The sector is thriving, with growing demand for skilled workers in areas like automation, robotics, and advanced production. These roles often offer competitive wages, solid benefits, and long-term stability, accessible through training programs, apprenticeships, or certifications that don’t require expensive degrees.

Top jobs in manufacturing.

Before collections hit, visit your loan servicer’s portal to review payment schedules or explore income-driven repayment plans, loan rehabilitation, or consolidation to avoid default consequences. More importantly, consider manufacturing as a strategic pivot. Local trade schools or workforce development programs can help you transition into a career that delivers financial security. May 5th is a deadline, but it’s also a chance to forge a path that pays off.

Schedule a call today and get started with Timpl.