I'm a high school junior in Texas eager to learn about skilled trades. What are the best trades to pursue immediately after graduation, and what resources can help me get started?
Your eagerness to pursue a skilled trade after high school shows that you have a clear vision. Texas provides a variety of lucrative opportunities in this field, and there can be a lot of benefits to pursuing a trade, including often having a shorter and less expensive educational pathway compared to a traditional four-year degree.
One of the highest demand trades in Texas is plumbing. Texas has a shortage of skilled plumbers making it a lucrative trade to go into. Being a licensed plumber can offer job stability, good wages, and opportunities for advancement. Electricians and HVAC technicians are also much-needed trades in Texas, similarly offering good career prospects.
To get your start, consider taking some courses specifically for trades at your high school or at a local community college if available. Often, they will have programs in the trades or partnerships with local businesses that could help you acquire hands-on experience.
The Texas Workforce Commission has an Apprenticeship program that's worth looking into. They sponsor apprenticeships in a variety of trades, including electricians, plumbers, and HVAC. These programs combine classroom instruction with on-the-job training, providing a fully rounded education.
The Texas Construction Careers website is another resource that provides valuable career tips, job listings, and information on construction apprenticeships. TexasTradeSchools.net also offers a great list of trades and the schools in Texas that offer related programs.
Just remember that entering a trade often requires a degree of physical stamina and can sometimes entail irregular hours. It's wise to do informational interviews or job shadowing to get an idea of what a day in the life of a tradesman might look like. This will help you ensure that you are making the best decision for your strengths, interest, and long-term career goals. Good luck!
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