I'm exploring alternatives to college and have heard about trade schools. What are the various types of jobs available after completing a trade school program? Any recommendations for schools with strong job placement programs?
Trade school, or vocational school, can indeed be an excellent alternative to four-year colleges. The training is often hands-on, focused, and tied directly to the skills needed for a specific vocation. As such, the career possibilities after trade school vary widely depending on the field of study. Here's a short list of jobs available to trade school graduates:
1. Electricians: They install and repair wiring and electrical systems in homes, businesses, and factories. Electricians are a high-demand trade, and the profession is projected to grow in the coming years.
2. HVAC Technicians: HVAC techs repair, replace, and install heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems. Like electricians, HVAC technicians are in high demand, especially as technologies evolve.
3. Dental Hygienists: Dental Hygienists work in dental offices, cleaning teeth, taking x-rays, and educating patients on oral health.
4. Paralegals: Paralegals assist attorneys with research, drafting legal documents, collecting statements, and organizing evidence.
5. Welders: Welders use tools to join metal parts. Opportunities in welding are varied and span industries like construction, manufacturing, and even aerospace.
6. Medical Imaging Technologists: They operate machinery to diagnose health issues, including X-ray machines, MRI scanners, and CT scanners.
7. Culinary Chefs: If you have a passion for cooking, a culinary school could lead to a career as a chef or a baker in various establishments, from restaurants to bakery shops.
Where to attend trade school depends on the specific field you want to pursue. However, some schools are known for their excellent and comprehensive programs, such as Lincoln Tech, Universal Technical Institute, and Tulsa Welding School. These schools also tend to have solid job placement programs.
Remember, the key to finding a high-quality trade school is to look for ones that are accredited, have transparent outcome statistics, teach up-to-date industry practices, and support their students with robust career services.
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