Trade Job vs. Office Job: Which to Choose?

I'm trying to decide between pursuing a trade job or an office job after high school. What are the main differences in lifestyle and career progression between these two paths? I'm looking for opinions to guide my decision.

To start, it's essential to grasp that both trade occupations and office work have their unique sets of benefits and potential downsides. Your personal preferences, skills, and career goals will also be a deciding factor.

Trade jobs often involve manual labor and require specific technical skills. Electricians, plumbers, and carpenters are examples of trade workers. Tradespeople often find satisfaction in producing tangible results and have opportunities for physical activity. Jobs in this path often offer on-the-job training or apprenticeships, allowing you to start earning money without needing a four-year degree. However, it's also worth mentioning that trade jobs can be physically demanding and sometimes work in challenging environments.

Career progression in a trade job might include becoming a journeyman, then a master in your trade, or starting your own business. You could also specialize further, for example, a plumber might specialize in the installation of certain types of systems. Trade jobs are often in high demand, so job stability is generally good.

On the other hand, office jobs often entail work within fields such as management, finance, or IT. These jobs may require a bachelor's degree, depending on the role. Office jobs usually involve working in a structured environment and can allow for more indoor, sedentary work.

Career growth within corporate settings often has a clear pathway, such as being promoted from a junior role to a management role, then potentially to the executive level. Office jobs tend to offer a broader range of roles and opportunities to pivot laterally within the business world, as many skills (like management) are transferable across industries. However, the job market can be competitive in certain fields or locations, and office work often comes with its own stressors, such as high-pressure deadlines, work politics, or sometimes less physical activity.

Ultimately, choosing between a trade job and an office job depends on many factors, including your personal interests, your preparedness to invest in education, your preferred work style, your long-term career goals, and the kind of lifestyle you desire.