Trade vs Office Job: Which Should I Consider?

I'm in high school and trying to figure out my future career path. I'm considering both trade jobs and office jobs. What are the pros and cons of each? Any advice on deciding between these options?

While deciding between a trade job and an office job is ultimately a personal decision, understanding the pros and cons of each can help inform your decision.

Trade jobs, also known as skilled or vocational jobs, tend to emphasize manual or practical skills. This category includes fields like electricians, plumbers, welders, and carpenters. Some of the pros of trade jobs are:

1. Shorter Education Time: To prepare for a trade job, you may need to complete a certificate program or an associate's degree, which typically takes less time than a four-year bachelor's degree. This means you could potentially enter the workforce sooner.

2. High Demand: Many trade jobs are in consistent demand. You might find it easier to find a stable job in these fields.

3. Opportunities for Entrepreneurship: Many trade jobs provide opportunities to start your own business in the future.

Still, trade jobs do have some cons:

1. Physically Demanding: These jobs can often be physically strenuous and might involve working in uncomfortable or hazardous conditions.

2. Potentially Lower Earnings: While this isn't a rule, on average, trade jobs sometimes pay less than jobs that require a bachelor's degree.

Office jobs, on the other hand, typically involve more mental or creative work, like professions in business, technology, or the humanities.

Firstly, office jobs have their pros:

1. Higher Potential Earnings: On average, jobs that require a bachelor's degree tend to have higher salaries overall compared to trade jobs.

2. Greater Variety: Office jobs span a wide range of industries and roles, which can offer more variety in terms of your daily tasks and responsibilities.

However, office jobs also have their cons:

1. Longer Education Time: Most office jobs require at least a bachelor's degree, which means spending more time in education before you start earning.

2. Competitive Field: Office jobs are often highly competitive, and it may be challenging to secure a position, especially in popular industries.

Start by reflecting on your interests and strengths—are you someone who enjoys hands-on work, or do you thrive in a desk-based environment? Consider what you value in a job—stability, earning potential, variety—and how these factors align with each career path. It would also be beneficial to speak with professionals in both areas to gather firsthand insights and gauge what might suit you best in the long run. Remember that there is no right or wrong answer—it's about finding the path that suits you best.