Trade Jobs in Demand Without College

I'm on the lookout for trade jobs that don't require a college degree but are still in demand. I want to enter a field right after high school that offers stability and growth. Any suggestions?

There are quite a few trade jobs that have a high demand and present opportunities for growth and stability. Here are four areas to consider:

1. Plumbing: As a plumber, you could be installing, repairing, or maintaining plumbing fixtures in homes or commercial buildings. Plumbing is a job that's always in demand due to the persistent need for clean water and proper waste disposal.

2. Electrician: In this role, you'd have the responsibility of installing, maintaining, and repairing electrical wiring or equipment. With the growing use of electricity, both in homes and in the commercial sector, there's a continuous need for experienced electricians.

3. HVAC Technician: Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning technicians, or HVAC technicians, work on systems that control the temperature, humidity, and overall air quality in residential and commercial buildings. With increasingly unpredictable weather patterns and the need for well-maintained temperature control systems, this job is always in demand.

4. Welder: Welding is a key part of many industries, including construction, aerospace, and manufacturing. As a welder, you could be involved in everything from building bridges to repairing machinery.

To enter these fields, you typically need to complete a vocational program or apprenticeship and may need to obtain licensing or certification, depending on state requirements. Doing an apprenticeship allows you to learn the trade while getting paid, which can be a great alternative to college for many students. The length of an apprenticeship varies but can be from 1-5 years.

Remember to thoroughly research any potential jobs you're interested in. You'll want to understand the daily responsibilities, the work environment, and the long-term career growth opportunities. It's also a good idea to reach out to professionals working in these fields to gain a firsthand perspective. I hope this helps!