What training do I need to pursue a career in trade jobs?

I'm thinking about going into a trade job after high school, but I'm not sure what kind of training or education I should focus on. Are there specific programs or certifications that are essential for different trades?

Indeed, different trade careers require different educational and training paths, often including a mix of formal education, apprenticeships, and licensing. Here are some examples:

- Welders: Often need a high school diploma and some technical training, which can come from a certificate program at a community college or a vocational school. After completing a program, welders generally go on to an apprenticeship from 1 to 5 years, where they gain on-the-job training under the watch of experienced welders.

- Electricians: Typically start with a high school diploma and then move into an apprenticeship, which can last about 4-5 years. These apprenticeships combine paid hands-on work with classroom instruction on safety practices, blueprint reading, electrical code requirements, and more. To work as an electrician, you may also need to be licensed by your state, which usually involves passing an exam.

- Plumbers: Like electricians, plumbers usually need a high school diploma followed by an apprenticeship that can last from 2 to 5 years. This apprenticeship also combines paid work experience with classroom instruction. Plumbing licensing requirements vary by state, so you'll need to look at your specific locale's regulations.

- HVAC technicians: Some HVAC technicians get started by completing a 6-month up to 2-year program at a technical or trade school or a community college. The program should provide you with a foundation of knowledge about heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems. This is typically followed by an apprenticeship that lasts 3-5 years.

In many cases, these careers also require certain certifications to showcase your skills and knowledge to potential employers. For instance, in the HVAC industry, you might want to get certified in handling refrigerants. The type of certification will largely depend on your chosen trade and the regulations in your state or country. After your initial training, there's also often a need for continuing education to stay up-to-date with changes in the field.

Remember, careers that involve manual labor or working with machinery will also place a premium on safety training. You might consider taking classes in basic first aid or workplace safety. Employers will value this kind of knowledge, and it can help protect you and your coworkers on the job.

This is a broad overview and your path may look slightly different depending on your specific interests and location. The best next step would be to research a trade that interests you and find out the specific qualifications required in your area.