Are there skilled trade job opportunities for the legally blind?

I'm legally blind and curious about pursuing a skilled trade. Does anyone have insights on which trades might be more accessible or any programs that support people with disabilities in this field?

Absolutely, opportunities in skilled trades do exist for people with visual impairments. Of course, it heavily depends on the nature and extent of the visual impairment since not all trades might be accessible. However, many legally blind individuals successfully pursue careers in various skilled trades.

For example, do consider the field of music. Tuning pianos is a highly specialized skilled trade, and it relies much more on the sense of hearing than of sight. Many blind individuals have successfully pursued careers in this field, as well as others related to music like instrument repair and teaching music.

Massage therapy is another field that heavily relies on touch and does not require keen eyesight. Many massage and physical therapy programs are accessible for individuals who are visually impaired and can lead to rewarding careers.

Technology fields also provide opportunities. With the use of tools like screen readers and braille keyboards, individuals who are visually impaired can learn coding and computer repair.

Be sure to check out organizations like National Industries for the Blind (NIB), which provide job training and employment for visually impaired individuals in a wide range of fields.

Additionally, vocational rehabilitation agencies exist in every state to provide resources and support to individuals with disabilities looking to join the workforce. They offer services like job training, job placement, and counseling.

However, the most critical aspect would always be interest and passion in the trade one chooses to pursue. A supportive environment and accessible tools can make many careers possible, irrespective of any physical limitations. As an example, Charles Brooks, a blind gentleman, invented the street-sweeping truck, proving that one's abilities are the only limitation to what one can truly achieve.