I'm a high school junior exploring options after graduation, and trade jobs have caught my interest. Can anyone share what types of trade jobs are out there? I'd love to know more about the variety and what's available.
There are indeed many trade jobs available, each with their own unique set of skills and requirements. Here are a few examples:
1. Electrician: These professionals install and repair electrical power systems, lighting, and control systems in homes and businesses. Training usually consists of an apprenticeship.
2. Plumber: This is a profession that involves installing and maintaining systems used for drinking water, sewage, and drainage. A mix of classroom education and hands-on experience through an apprenticeship is typical for plumbers.
3. HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) Technician: These professionals install, repair, and maintain heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems. Training can be completed through a trade school or an apprenticeship.
4. Carpenter: Carpenter jobs involve working with wood to create and repair structures and furniture. They can specialize in construction, finishing work, or custom designs.
5. Automotive Mechanic or Technician: automotive technicians repair cars and trucks, performing maintenance work to prevent future problems. They might specialize in certain types of vehicles or certain aspects of vehicle repair.
6. Welder: Welders use heat to fuse materials together. They may work in a variety of industries, anywhere from construction to aerospace.
7. Lineman: This job is all about installing and repairing cables or wires used in electrical power or distribution systems. The work often involves physical labor and can be dangerous.
8. Construction Manager: While more managerial, this role oversees construction projects, including managing contractors, creating schedules, and ensuring that the project adheres to the budget.
Each of these trade jobs requires some amount of training or apprenticeship post high school, but they typically don't require a 4-year degree. Additionally, these positions often offer good job security and salaries. It's important to explore each trade job's education and training requirements, working conditions, and potential pay to determine which might be the best fit for you.
CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.