I'm considering getting into a skilled trade after high school but I'm not sure about the job market in Rochester, NY. Does anyone know if there are a lot of opportunities there and which trades are in demand?
Rochester, NY, has a diverse job market that absolutely includes opportunities in various skilled trades. These often range from electricians to HVAC technicians, to carpenters, and more. It's also important to mention Rochester's long-standing history in manufacturing which can provide ample opportunities for machinists and other trade professionals.
CareerOneStop, a resource sponsored by the U.S. Department of Labor, provides a wealth of information about job prospects in specific areas. According to their site, careers such as electricians, HVAC technicians, and plumbers have a relatively high projected growth rate in the Rochester area.
Rochester's local trade schools and community colleges often have programs specifically designed to meet the need of local industries. For example, Monroe Community College has a workforce development program specifically designed to meet current and future industry demands.
Ultimately, your decision could depend on your personal interest and aptitude for a certain trade. It might be helpful to visit job fairs, connect with local trade unions or associations, or even shadow a professional in the field you're interested in to get a feel for the trade. This could provide some more context on the potential job opportunities and what working in that trade might look like on a day-to-day basis.
Keep in mind that career opportunities can fluctuate with changes in the economy and technological advancements, but skilled trades often remain in high demand given the need for continuous building, maintenance, and repairs in various sectors.
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