Trade vocational jobs: What are they?

I'm considering going into a trade after high school and I've heard the term 'trade vocational job' used often. Can someone explain what these jobs typically involve and how I can prepare for them?

Trade vocational jobs are careers that focus on providing a specific set of skills necessary for a particular profession. These are often hands-on jobs that are learned through practical training rather than a traditional four-year degree program. This can include a wide variety of fields such as plumbing, HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) work, automotive technology, electrical work, and more.

To prepare for these jobs, students usually attend a vocational or trade school instead of a four-year college or university. These can be public or private schools and offer programs that are typically two years or less. The focus of the curriculum is on providing practical, job-specific skills.

In addition to formal education, many trade jobs also require on-the-job training or an apprenticeship. These programs provide hands-on experience and often include a combination of training and paid work. This allows students to learn the necessary skills from experienced professionals in the field.

Furthermore, some trade jobs may require certification or licensing, which often includes passing an exam and meeting certain education and experience requirements. It's also important to note that vocational trades can offer solid job stability and competitive wages, especially in industries where there's a high demand for skilled workers.