What Are Trades?
- Professions requiring specific skills learned through vocational schools, apprenticeships, or on-the-job training.
- Trades span various industries, offering financial and professional satisfaction.
Benefits of Learning a Trade
- Lower Costs:
- Typically no college degree needed; trade schools and apprenticeships are affordable.
- Start Earning Young??:
- Begin earning wages straight out of high school or after short training programs.
- High Earning Potential:
- Many trades backed by unions; opportunities to start your own business.
- Fulfilling Careers:
- Trades provide pride in skilled, meaningful work.
- Job Security:
- Mastered trade skills are in demand throughout your career.
Popular Trade Categories
1. Medical Trades
- Examples:
- Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)
- Occupational Therapist
- Registered Nurse
- Radiation Therapist
- Benefits: Financially rewarding and personally fulfilling.
2. Residential Trades
- Examples:
- Electrician
- Plumber
- Carpenter
- HVAC Technician
- Benefits: Hands-on work with stable demand for home improvement.
3. Energy and Industrial Trades
- Examples:
- Solar Installer
- Diesel Mechanic
- Heavy Machine Operator
- Wind Energy Technician
- Benefits: Outdoors, physical, and high-paying opportunities.
4. Cosmetic Trades
- Examples:
- Aesthetician
- Hair Color Specialist
- Nail Technician
- Benefits: Creative careers enhancing personal beauty.
5. Technology Trades
- Examples:
- Web Developer
- App Developer
- Game Developer
- SEO Specialist
- Benefits: Opportunities to work with cutting-edge tech.
6. Additional Skilled Trades
- Examples:
- Locksmith
- Truck Driver
- Interior Designer
- Welder
- Benefits: Versatile, with options for specialization.
Training for Trades
- Duration: Varies; apprenticeships may last 2-5 years, while some trades take months.
- Options:
- Vocational/trade schools
- On-the-job training
- Apprenticeships
To Sum Up
Trades offer a practical and rewarding path to career success, combining skill-building with financial stability and personal fulfillment.