Best Trade School Jobs After Graduation

I'm thinking about enrolling in a trade school soon and want to know which trade school jobs are in high demand. What's the job market like for trade school graduates? Any specific careers or skills I should focus on?

There are a multitude of middle-skills jobs (those requiring more than a high school diploma but less than a four-year degree) that are in high demand and offer good salaries. The career path you choose depends largely on your interests and strengths, but several trade careers stand out for their future job prospects. Here are a few you might consider:

1. Electrician: With an increasingly automated world, the need for skilled electricians to install, maintain, and repair electrical systems isn't going away. After graduating from trade school, you will often require an apprenticeship period, but once licensed, electricians often find steady work.

2. HVAC Technician: As long as we have buildings that need to be cooled and heated, HVAC technicians will be needed. This field is continually evolving with the development of new technologies and systems, offering many opportunities for ongoing learning and advancement.

3. Plumber: Just like electricians, plumbers are essential in maintaining our modern life. The skills required are complex, making it a profession that remains in high demand. Plumbing can also be a very lucrative field, especially if you choose to establish your own company.

4. Welder: Welding skills are used in a variety of fields, including construction, automotive, and even aeronautics. Welding offers a wide range of opportunities and versatility, and skilled welders can often command higher salaries.

5. Medical Technologist: If you're more inclined towards the healthcare field, medical technology is a great option. As a medical technologist or technician, you'd work in a clinical lab conducting tests that doctors use to diagnose and treat their patients. This is a rapidly growing field due to our aging population and the ongoing improvements in medical technology.

6. Dental Hygienist: Another great option in the healthcare field, dental hygienists are in high demand. This trade requires an associate’s degree and licensure, but it can lead to a well-paying job with flexible hours.

Remember, one of the best ways to assess your fit for a specific career is by getting exposure to the work. Try to get some hands-on experience, whether it's a part-time job, an apprenticeship, or a job shadowing experience, before fully committing to your educational path. This will provide insight into the day-to-day realities of the job and help ensure that you enjoy the work you're training for.