Is going to college a scam?

I'm a 16 year old Junior in High School, and occasionally I think to myself whether I should go to college, or going to trade school or any other alternatives, ultimately avoiding college. Most people end up still paying their college loans 15 years or longer after entering the work force (depending on salary). Should I place myself in that predicament where I have to pay this debt so many years of my life? I'm still figuring out what I should do in my career, but right now I'm kind of lost with no trajectory in my future. I have a slight interest in tech, but if I can be successful in jobs like plumbing, HVAC, and other skilled trades, what should I do? Please guide me.