Getting Into Skilled Trades in Tennessee Right After High School?

I'm a junior exploring options in skilled trades in Tennessee for after high school. What jobs are available, and what steps should I take to land a good position right after graduation?

There are a variety of skilled trade opportunities available in Tennessee, including positions in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC), electrical work, automotive repair, carpentry, and plumbing. To increase your chances of landing a good position right after graduation, here are some steps you may want to consider:

1. Career and Technical Education Programs: Investigate Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs in your high school or a nearby vocational school. CTE programs often offer hands-on learning experiences and may have relationships with local businesses, allowing for potential internships or apprenticeships. This will not only provide training but will also give you real-world experience.

2. Apprenticeships: After high school, consider pursuing an apprenticeship in your chosen field. Apprenticeships usually involve on-the-job training under a professional in the trade and related classroom instruction. This approach can offer you an income while you gain the technical skills and knowledge required to excel in your field.

3. Certifications: Depending on the field you choose, there may be certifications that can increase your employability. Some fields have clear certification paths such as automotive repair which has certifications like the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certification. Remember, holding these accreditations can make you a more attractive candidate to employers.

4. Networking: Start building relationships now in your desired trade. This could be through a CTE program, a part-time job, or even online communities.

5. Career Research: Understand what job prospects look like in your desired field. This could mean doing some research on the salary range, job growth, and types of jobs available in Tennessee. You can use resources like the Bureau of Labor Statistics or the Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development.

6. Post-secondary Education: While many skilled trades can be learned through work experience and on-the-job training, there are others that may require additional education. For instance, some positions in the medical or IT (Information Technology) sector, like a medical coder or IT technician, may require a degree, diploma, or certificate program.

Remember, a skilled trade can be a rewarding career and can often provide opportunities for entrepreneurship if you ever want to start your own business. Developing a roadmap for your future in the skilled trades now will set you on the path to a successful career. Good luck!