Why You Should Consider the Trades

Did you know the trades offer highly rewarding careers and substantial earning potential right from the start? There are numerous options for training and development through trade schools, technical colleges, and apprenticeships, entering a trade can lead to a rewarding and prosperous career. Being educated about the pathways, certifications, and licensure involved in trade careers can empower students to make informed decisions that align with their interests and strengths.

Whether you're drawn to the creativity of carpentry, the precision of electrical work, or the problem-solving involved in HVAC, a career in the trades can offer the fulfillment and stability you seek. Below are four key points for pursuing a trade career:

Demand: Skilled trades are in high demand. As older generations retire, there is a significant need for new workers.
Earning Potential: Many trades jobs offer competitive salaries that are comparable to or exceed those of some college-degree careers.
Less Tuition Debt: Training time for trades varies (typically less than 24 months) meaning the cost is significantly less traditional student debt.
Practical and Engaging Work: Trades careers are ideal for those who enjoy working with their hands and solving practical problems.

Understanding Certifications and Licensing

Certifications and licenses in the trades are the credentials that validate a professional's skills and knowledge to employers and clients.

Certification: Certifications are issued by professional bodies and demonstrate that an individual has achieved a certain level of skill or knowledge in a trade. They are often taken voluntarily to improve employment prospects or wages. For instance, a welder might obtain a certification from the American Welding Society.

Licensing: Unlike certifications, a license is a legal requirement to practice certain trades in many states. For example, electricians, plumbers, and contractors must be licensed. Licensing requirements vary by state but generally involve passing an exam and having a certain amount of experience (often achieved through apprenticeships).

It is important to do the research to know exactly what is required in the field you want to pursue. Watch the video to see the top jobs in trades and what they require!