I'm a junior in high school thinking about a trade career in Michigan. Can anyone tell me which trade jobs are currently in demand here? I want a guide to what skills employers are looking for in the state.
Absolutely, it's great that you're considering a trade career pathway. In Michigan, certain trade jobs are observing growth and demand. Here are a few in-demand skilled trade careers:
1) Electricians: With the increasing technological advancement and reliance on electricity, electricians are consistently in demand to handle new installations and maintain existing systems. Electricians can also specialize in areas like residential or commercial wiring, or newer areas like home automation or renewable energy.
2) Plumbers: Since every home and business needs functional plumbing, well-trained plumbers tend to find steady work. In addition to the traditional pipe and drain work, plumbers can also specialize in areas like natural gas piping or green plumbing solutions.
3) HVAC Technicians: Michigan's fluctuating weather patterns mean that there's a high demand for skilled HVAC technicians to install, repair, and service heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems.
4) Welders: From manufacturing to construction, the demand for skilled welders is high. Different forms of welding can be learned, and there are also niche fields like underwater welding for the truly adventurous.
5) Auto Mechanics: Michigan is home to the Detroit auto industry, which can provide opportunities for trained mechanics. Specializations could be in areas such as electric vehicles, high-performance tuning, or heavy-duty truck repair.
6) CNC Machinists: Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machinists operate high-tech machinery used to produce parts for countless applications. This career path often requires additional training on specific machines or programming languages.
Make sure you look into the necessary qualifications, training, and certification for these jobs as requirements can vary. Trade schools and community colleges often offer specific programs designed to prepare you for these careers, and apprenticeships are another great way to get the necessary training while also earning an income. Remember, the best trade job for you will also heavily depend on your personal interests and long-term career goals.
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