Comparing skilled trade vs office jobs

I'm trying to decide between pursuing a skilled trade or going for an office job after graduation. What are the main differences in terms of lifestyle, salary, and job satisfaction? Any advice from those who had to make this choice?

Indeed, the choice between a skilled trade and an office job can be quite challenging because it involves considering factors like lifestyle, salary, and job satisfaction. To make this easier, let's break these down.

In terms of lifestyle, skilled trade jobs are usually more physically demanding and require hands-on work. This means that you'll likely be on your feet, outside, or working with tools more often than you might in an office job. On the plus side, this could be great if you enjoy being active and working with your hands.

Office jobs, on the other hand, tend to offer a more sedentary work environment, often requiring prolonged periods seated at a desk. Depending on the role, they could involve various tasks ranging from data analysis and project management to client relations and administrative work. Additionally, office jobs can offer more predictable hours compared to skilled trades, which can sometimes include overtime, night, or weekend shifts.

When it comes to salary, it can be a bit harder to generalize. Some skilled trade jobs, particularly after you've gained some experience or specialized certification, can be quite lucrative. For instance, a master plumber or electrician can earn a higher-than-average salary. Office jobs can also be very well-paying, especially in certain sectors like finance, tech, or upper management. However, entry-level salaries for office work can sometimes be lower than for skilled trades.

As for job satisfaction, this is deeply personal and can vary significantly from person to person. For instance, you might find immense satisfaction in doing physical, tangible work that a skilled trade offers. Conversely, you might feel more fulfilled in an office job, where you could be working on diverse projects, solving complex tasks, or having a wider range of career progression opportunities.

Ultimately, you need to carefully consider the pros and cons of each career path and determine which aligns best with your interests, skills, goals, and lifestyle preferences. Speaking to professionals in both areas or arranging job shadowing experiences could also provide you with valuable insights to help inform your decision.