How does schooling help with skilled trades jobs versus business jobs?

I'm weighing my options between going into a skilled trade or a business career. How does education play a role in each path, and is there a significant advantage of schooling for trades compared to business roles?

Education plays an essential part in both skilled trades and business careers, albeit its role differs significantly.

In skilled trades, which include jobs like an electrician, plumber, welder, or carpenter, vocational school or an apprenticeship is usually the path to entry. These education tracks focus on providing hands-on training and developing practical competencies needed for a specific trade. Experienced professionals usually oversee apprenticeships, allowing students to learn valuable skills while earning a living.

For example, a student studying to become an electrician might spend time learning about safety protocols, electrical codes, and technical skills in their vocational school or apprenticeship program.

For business roles on the other hand, a bachelor's degree in a related field (like Business Administration, Finance, or Marketing) is often the minimum requirement. In these degree programs, students generally learn theories and principles that guide business practices and decision-making and have the opportunity to specialize in areas like human resources, marketing, or finance.

Graduates from business degree programs can leverage their education to target entry-level roles in their chosen fields. Advanced degrees, like an MBA, can also boost career prospects significantly, offering opportunities for higher-level roles and greater earning potential.

But here's the thing, the 'value' of education in these two paths is largely dependent on your career goals. If you like working with your hands and have a strong interest in a specific trade, a trade school or apprenticeship can provide the necessary education without the time and financial commitment of a four-year degree. On the other hand, if you aspire to a career in business, a university degree can open doors to a broad range of opportunities and give you a solid foundation in business principles.

In conclusion, neither path holds a 'significant advantage' over the other – it mostly depends on your career goals, learning preferences, and interests. Both paths provide useful education and skills that can lead to successful and rewarding careers.