If you’re a junior or senior in high school, chances are many people are asking you what your plans are after graduation. Your friends are filling out college applications or narrowing down their career options, but you’re unsure what you’d like to do.
One excellent option you may have overlooked is a trade school.
What is a Trade School?
A trade school is a post-secondary educational institution specializing in technical or hands-on skills. These programs often lead to apprenticeships and certifications to enter one of many career options.
What are the Benefits of Trade Schools?
It’s always good to carefully consider all your options. And in this economy, enrolling in a trade school is one of the smartest choices you can make. So, read on for a few reasons to consider applying to a trade school program.
Trade Schools Jobs Pay Well
Many people plan to start working immediately after high school. However, they can end up at low-paying jobs without a long-term plan. In addition, with only a high school diploma, you may be limited to jobs that don’t pay very well, have inconsistent schedules, or don’t have a clear path to advancement.
On the other hand, trade schools prepare you for jobs with high-earning potential so you can start making money immediately.
Trade School Jobs are In-Demand
Trade jobs are in high demand now. And, because many baby boomers are retiring from trade careers, the job outlook is expected to stay good.
Jobs that require college degrees, on the other hand, are more hit or miss. As a result, many graduates regret their college majors, especially when they aren’t tied to a clear job path.
Trade School Takes Less Time Than College
The average bachelor’s degree takes four years to finish. And even then, it may not lead directly to a career. After graduation, you still need to gain work experience through internships or entry-level jobs. So, while college is the right direction for some, hitting the books for at least four years after high school, isn’t for everyone. And, many university programs are a long, arduous process with no guaranteed outcomes.
On the other hand, when you decide to enroll in a trade school, you can immediately choose a career path, gain all the knowledge and understanding you need, and then learn on the job. All in all, most trade school programs take less than two years to complete.
Trade School is Often Less Expensive than College
With college and university costs at an all-time high, fewer students choose to attend college. The most common reason is that students wonder if they will see a return on their investment. Students also say that college degrees take too long to earn, cost too much, and are seen as less relevant than they once were.
Trade schools offer great value at an affordable price. The average cost of attending a traditional college is three times higher than a trade school. In addition, because of the high costs of student loans, college graduates are putting off buying houses and starting businesses. Trade school offers lower tuition fees and a clear career path.
Trade School Jobs May Be a Better Fit for Your Interests and Skillset
An estimated 20-50% of students who start college don’t declare a major immediately. While that’s not a decision they should make lightly, the fact is that many who start college have no clear direction. Some students have trouble finding a major that truly fits their interests and skills.
If you like to work with your hands and do your best when learning the ins and outs of a complete system – such as electrical or HVAC – trade school may be your best option. Not only will you be able to start learning about it immediately – with no fluff or filler classes – but you also have a clear path to a successful career as soon as your graduate.
Are you ready to consider a trade school?
If you think trade school is the right option, check out our available concentrations and contact us today to learn more. We are ready to answer your questions and share about our pre-apprenticeship programs designed to get you the training you need and on to earn while you learn!
