How can I find trade schools with high paying job prospects?

I'm thinking about attending a trade school instead of a traditional college. How can I find trade schools that offer training for high-paying jobs? I'm open to different fields and would love some recommendations or search tips.

To find high-paying career opportunities through trade schools, you would start the same way as you would in a traditional college search - by identifying your interests and strengths.

Once you've shortlisted potential fields, research each one to determine the earning potential and job market outlook. The Bureau of Labor Statistics' Occupational Outlook Handbook is a valuable tool for this. It provides comprehensive information about various professions, including median pay, job outlook, and what kind of vocational training or education is required.

Now with a narrower set of options, you can embark on finding suitable trade schools. Remember to look for schools that are accredited, as this ensures you are getting a quality education and that your certification will be recognized by employers.

As an example, if you have an interest in tech, a high-paying trade to consider might be becoming an elevator installer or repairer. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, their median annual wage was $86,200 in May 2020. Some fields like this may require an apprenticeship rather than schooling.

Another profession to consider might be radiation therapy which generally requires an associate’s degree from a program accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology. The median annual wage for radiation therapists was $86,850 in May 2020.

Additionally, ask to speak to current students or alumni of the programs you're interested in, if possible. They can provide insight into the program's strengths and weaknesses, and potentially give you an idea of what kind of job opportunities are available after graduation.

Finally, check the school's job placement rate as an indicator of how successful they are at preparing students for the job market. Schools with high placement rates typically have strong relationships with local agencies and employers, which can greatly assist you in the job search process following graduation.

And remember, it's essential to consider not only the potential income but also whether you would enjoy the daily work and if it would be fulfilling to you. Job satisfaction and income often go hand in hand, and contentment with your chosen profession can be equally, if not more, valuable than the pay check.