Why Choose a Career in the Trades?
For high school students looking for a stable, high-paying career without the burden of student debt, the skilled trades offer an excellent path. Careers like electricians, plumbers, welders, and truck drivers are in high demand, with opportunities for career growth, job security, and even entrepreneurship.
Planning early can set students up for success in the trades. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to prepare.
Step 1: Explore Different Skilled Trades
The first step is to research and find a trade that matches interests and career goals. Some of the most in-demand skilled trades include:
- Electrician – Works on electrical systems in homes and businesses.
- Plumber – Installs and repairs plumbing systems.
- HVAC Technician – Specializes in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning.
- Welder – Joins metal parts for construction and manufacturing.
- Carpenter – Builds and repairs structures.
- Heavy Equipment Operator – Handles large construction machinery.
- Diesel Mechanic – Repairs trucks and heavy vehicles.
- Truck Driver (CDL-A) – Drives freight across the country (requires age 21 for interstate jobs).
Each trade has different education, training, and licensing requirements. Talking to professionals, job shadowing, or watching online trade videos can help with decision-making.
Step 2: Take the Right High School Courses
While in high school, students should focus on courses that provide relevant skills for their chosen trade:
- Math & Science – Essential for electrical work, HVAC, and mechanics.
- Shop/Technical Education – Offers hands-on experience with tools and materials.
- Computer Skills – Useful for modern trade jobs that use automation and digital tools.
- Business or Economics – Helpful for those who want to start their own trade business.
Many schools offer Career & Technical Education (CTE) programs, which provide hands-on experience in trades like welding, auto repair, and construction.
Step 3: Gain Hands-On Experience
To build skills and industry connections, students can:
✅ Join a CTE program if their school offers one.
✅ Participate in internships or job shadowing with local trade businesses.
✅ Work part-time in construction, landscaping, or auto repair.
These experiences can help confirm career interests and provide a head start in the trade.
Step 4: Choose the Right Training Path After High School
Students have several training options to enter the skilled trades:
1. Apprenticeships (Earn While You Learn)
- Hands-on paid training with classroom instruction.
- Often sponsored by unions or trade associations.
- Examples: Electricians, plumbers, HVAC techs.
2. Trade School (Technical Colleges)
- Programs last 6 months to 2 years.
- Focus on job-ready skills.
- Best for careers like welding, diesel mechanics, and HVAC repair.
3. Community College
- Some offer certifications or associate degrees.
- More affordable and provides flexibility.
4. Joining a Union
- Provides structured training and high-quality apprenticeship programs.
- Unions help with job placement, licensing, and benefits.
Step 5: Get Licensed & Certified
Many trades require licenses and certifications to work legally. This may involve:
- Passing state or national exams
- Completing a set number of work hours
- Renewing certifications periodically
Popular Trade Certifications:
- OSHA 10 or 30 Certification (Safety training)
- CDL License (For truck drivers)
- EPA 608 Certification (For HVAC techs)
- Journeyman/Master Licenses (For electricians, plumbers)
Step 6: Build Experience & Keep Learning
Once in the field, students should:
✅ Start as an entry-level worker or apprentice to gain experience.
✅ Network with experienced professionals for mentorship.
✅ Stay updated on new tools and industry trends.
✅ Consider business courses for future self-employment opportunities.
Step 7: Plan for Career Growth
Many trade careers allow for advancement over time:
- Start as an apprentice → journeyman → master tradesperson.
- Specialize in high-paying niches.
- Start a contracting business.
- Move into supervisory or management roles.
- Teach or mentor new trade workers.
Final Thoughts
The skilled trades offer great job security, high salaries, and career advancement opportunities. Unlike traditional college degrees, trade careers allow students to start working and earning faster without accumulating heavy student debt.
With early planning, hands-on experience, and the right training path, high school students can build a successful and fulfilling career in the trades.
