Like working with your hands? Interested in earning money right out of high school while building toward a gainful, high demand career? Learn a trade and build a career! If you don't think a 4 year college is right for you and interests, look at the following links for more inforamtion about skilled trades! You can build a career by apprenticeship, programs of study at local community colleges, Alabama's Ready to Work Program, and Workforce Training Programs. Many two year colleges have scholarships that will help pay tuition! Reach out to any two year college of your choice for more information. Also, if you are taking classes at CATA, they will help you prepare for the next step after high school as well. Reach out to those teachers and your CATA counselor, Mr. Gamble, for more information and assistance!
There's been a lot of talk in the last few years about the importance of skilled trades in the economy. Most notably, in reinforcing the benefits of learning a skilled trade to younger people as they think about the work they want to do after school. But what exactly defines a skilled trade? And why is this category receiving such a focused attention and what options do they offer for your future?
Specialized Training is the KeyAt the most basic level, a skilled trade is any job that requires a specialized skill, usually obtained through a technical school, college, or on-the-job training through an apprenticeship or internship. Typically, skilled trades don't require a four-year degree, but some may require a specific certification or license earned through a school or state agency.
Most of the time, you'll see skilled trades broken down into three categories, with a variety of jobs in each category.
Specialized Training is the KeyAt the most basic level, a skilled trade is any job that requires a specialized skill, usually obtained through a technical school, college, or on-the-job training through an apprenticeship or internship. Typically, skilled trades don't require a four-year degree, but some may require a specific certification or license earned through a school or state agency.
Most of the time, you'll see skilled trades broken down into three categories, with a variety of jobs in each category.
- Industrial: welders, fabricators, machinist, pipefitters
- Construction: electricians, cement and concrete finishers, drywall, carpentry
- Motive Power: engine mechanics, electrical systems technicians, heavy duty equipment repair paint and body technicians
- Transportation: commercial drivers, heavy equipment operators
- Services: hair stylist, property and building maintenance, electronic service technician, field technician, dental assistants, computer repair technicians, kennel assistance, and chefs