Do trades offer a better job placement outlook than a college degree?

I'm really considering going into trades after high school instead of college. I've heard that skilled trades can sometimes offer better job prospects than a degree. Is this true? What are your experiences or advice on this?

There's definitely merit to considering a career in the trades after high school. Skilled trades are often in high demand, so they can indeed offer good job placement prospects. Also, the average time to complete a trade program can be shorter than a traditional four-year college, which means you would be able to enter the workforce sooner.

However, it's important to note that the outlook can vary greatly depending on the specific trade, the region you live in, and the current economic conditions. For example, a plumber or electrician might have a higher demand in a region undergoing significant construction and development. So it's critical to research your specific field of interest when considering job placement rates.

Keep in mind, that your long-term career goals should also shape your decision. If you have aspirations of eventually moving into managerial roles or starting your own business, the experience and training in trades would be invaluable. But, there may be additional requirements you'd need to meet - like earning a business degree or a certification in project management.

On the other hand, if your career ambitions align more closely with fields that require a college degree (like engineering, healthcare, law, education, etc.), then attending college would be a more suitable path.

Overall, it's not about determining whether college or a trade school is categorically better, but rather about assessing your interests, ambitions, and the type of career you desire, then choosing the path that lines up best with those things.