What's the Best Way to Enter the Trade Jobs Workforce?

I'm starting to think about entering the workforce straight out of high school, specifically in a trade job. What are some of the best steps I can take now to prepare myself for entering the trade jobs workforce after graduation?

If you're thinking about pursuing a career in a trade job right out of high school, there are several steps you can take to prepare yourself.

1. Career Research and Decision-Making: Start by researching the different types of trade jobs. The categories range from electricians to plumbers, from carpenters to auto mechanics. Identify what interests you the most. Keep in mind the demand, job growth, and median salary for these trades as well.

2. Volunteer or Part-Time Work: To gain practical experience, consider volunteering or getting a part-time job relevant to the trade you're interested in. This could provide you with firsthand experience and help confirm whether the trade really aligns with your interests. For example, if you're interested in being an auto mechanic, try to intern or work at a local car shop.

3. Trade School: After high school, attending a trade school is one common path. These are specialized educational institutions that teach skills related to specific jobs. They offer vocational education to prepare you for jobs in various fields such as healthcare, technology, and the skilled trades.

4. Apprenticeships: These programs offer a combination of on-the-job training and classroom instruction under the supervision of an experienced tradesperson. Many trade unions and individual businesses offer apprenticeships.

5. Certification: Depending on the trade, certification can make you more attractive to employers. There are different certifications for different trades, so look into the ones that are relevant to your trade of interest.

6. Networking: Use your time in school or in a part-time job to start building your network. The connections you make can open up job opportunities when you're ready to start working full-time.

Be sure to align your choice with your long-term goals and interests. With a well-thought-out plan and intentional steps towards your goal, you can successfully enter the workforce in a trade job.