I'm seriously considering jumping into a trade after high school rather than heading straight to college. Does anyone have a good list of trade jobs that you can start right out of high school or through an apprenticeship?
Sure, entering a trade can be a great career move and you have a wide range of possibilities available. Here's a list of some trade jobs you can consider right out of high school:
1. Electrician: Many electricians start their careers through an apprenticeship program where they get hands-on experience in this field.
2. Plumber: Like electricians, most plumbers learn their trade through participating in extensive apprenticeship programs.
3. HVAC Technician: Technicians in heating, ventilation, and air conditioner (HVAC) can learn their trade at a technical school or through an apprenticeship.
4. Welder: Welding often needs a technical training program to get started, which can be found in many trade schools and community colleges.
5. Carpenter: Carpentry can be learned both on the job and through apprenticeship programs, and lends itself to different specialties (e.g. finishing carpentry, framing, etc.)
6. Automotive Mechanic: In this role, you would be repairing cars and trucks. A high school diploma is usually enough to start, though some mechanics will go on to earn a certification.
7. Construction Equipment Operator: These positions can start with on-the-job training, progressing to an apprenticeship program for more specialty operating.
8. Mason: Bricklayers, Stonemasons, and Tile and Marble Setters learn their trade, often via on-the-job training and formal apprenticeship programs.
9. Diesel Mechanic: If you have a knack for large engines, learning to repair diesel engines in trucks, buses, and other heavy vehicles might be up your alley. Usually, a training program is required.
Remember, for each of these trades it is useful to research apprenticeship and certification requirements, as well as projected demand and earning potential. It can be helpful to know the field's prospects before getting into it. Ultimately, there are many paths to success, and trade jobs can provide a fulfilling and stable career path right out of high school.
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