Can someone explain what a 'trades job' really means? I'm curious about what kinds of work are considered trades and what skills one might need. I'm in high school and exploring options beyond the traditional college path.
A 'trades job' refers to a career that requires specific training, often hands-on and practical, but doesn't always demand a four-year college degree. These jobs are often in specific lines of work, typically dealing with crafts, constructing, maintaining, or repairing physical structures, equipment, or machinery. Popular examples include electricians, plumbers, construction workers, mechanics, and HVAC technicians.
You can prepare for these positions through various pathways such as apprenticeships, vocational schools, or community college programs where you get both hands-on training and theory. Over time, many tradespeople go on to open their own businesses and become self-employed.
In terms of skills, it depends on the trade. However, most trades jobs require problem-solving skills, attention to detail, physical strength and stamina, as well as a certain level of manual dexterity. It might also be beneficial to have strong skills in math, reading, and critical thinking, as many jobs will require you to follow technical manuals, specifications, or blueprints.
A key advantage of trades jobs is the strong demand for skilled tradespeople. In many parts of the world, including the U.S., there is a shortage of tradespeople leading to excellent job prospects and competitive salaries for individuals who pursue these pathways.
So, if you're interested in working with your hands, solving practical problems, or perhaps running your own business someday, a trade might be an excellent path to consider.
CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.