I'm a high school junior in New Jersey thinking about vocational school. Which vocations are doing well here, and are there any specific programs or certifications I should look into?
New Jersey presents a variety of promising vocational careers that you could potentially consider. They span across different industries, so it would be helpful to have an idea of which fields interest you most, but here are some top vocational professions in the state:
1. Healthcare professions: With several large hospitals in NJ, healthcare vocations have high demand. Jobs such as medical assistants, phlebotomists or physical therapist assistants are all popular and accessible with vocational training.
2. Construction and Trade: Plumbing, Electrical and HVAC technicians are always on demand due to the weather conditions in the state throughout the year. A vocational program with apprenticeships in these fields would be a valuable route to take.
3. Automotive technician: With numerous motorway networks in NJ, there's a high demand for well-trained automotive technicians. This field might be an excellent option if you are mechanically inclined.
4. IT Services: With the surge in the tech industry, roles like IT Technician, Network Support Specialist, and Security Analyst are viable options. Certification in certain tech platforms or skills (like ITIL, CompTIA A+, Network+, Security+) could be useful in this context.
5. Paralegal: If you're interested in law but not looking to become a lawyer, paralegal work might be a good fit. Many vocational schools offer paralegal studies associate degrees.
Please remember that it's important to pursue a vocation that aligns with your interests and skills. It would be beneficial to do thorough research or consult a career counselor before deciding on a specific program. You may also want to look into state-run resources such as NJ’s Department of Labor and Workforce Development. They offer various apprenticeship programs that provide both education and hands-on experience.
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