Did you know that only about half of Gen Z students plan on attending college?1 Though college can lead to a rewarding career path for some, for students who may be unsure about higher education, skilled trades offer a rewarding alternative. Many in-demand, high-paying careers in the skilled trades require only a high school diploma along with some on-the-job training or apprenticeships. These careers are crucial to the functioning of our society, as skilled tradespeople build, maintain, and repair the essential infrastructure and systems we rely on every day. From electricians to plumbers and HVAC technicians, these professionals ensure the quality of life we often take for granted.
What Do Skilled Tradespeople Do?
Skilled tradespeople are the backbone of our society, ensuring that the buildings, infrastructure, and systems we rely on every day are built, maintained, and repaired with precision. If your child is interested in problem-solving and working with their hands, skilled trades could be a natural fit.
Demand in the Skilled Trades Careers:
The demand for skilled trades continues to grow, with job stability and competitive salaries making them a smart choice for those not seeking a college degree. Here are some promising trades for students to consider:2
- Electricians install and maintain and diagnose problems in residential and commercial power systems.
- Education: Highschool diploma, with apprenticeship and license
- Projected job growth (2022-2032): +6%
- Average Median Salary: $61,590
- Elevator and Escalator installers and repairers work on assembly and upkeep of these machines. This includes evaluating blueprints, assembly and making emergency repairs.
- Education: High school diploma and apprenticeship
- Projected job growth (2021-2031): +1%
- Average Salary: $102,420
- Industrial Machinery Mechanics maintain factory equipment and machinery. They disassemble machinery, diagnose problems. Typically, they work full time and are on call during weekends.
- Projected Job growth (2021-2031): +15%
- Median Annual Salary$61,420
Is a Skilled Trade Career Right for Your Child?
Before considering college, parents and teachers should ask these important questions:
- Does your child enjoy working with their hands and solving practical problems?
- Are they interested in a physically engaging career?
- Do they thrive in finding solutions to technical challenges?
- Do they have an eye for detail?
If the answer is “yes” to any of these, your child may find skilled trades to be a rewarding career option, offering financial security and personal satisfaction.
The Skills that Make a Successful Tradesperson
Skilled tradespeople develop expertise in specific fields, but there are universal skills that are important for success across all trades. These include:
- Adaptability: Adjusting to different tools, technologies, and work environments is key as the field evolves.
- Time Management: Meeting project deadlines and managing workloads efficiently are crucial skills.
- Attention to Detail: Whether measuring materials or diagnosing issues, precision is vital to success in the trades.
How to Get Started in a Skilled Trade Career
There are many paths to entering the skilled trades, each offering a blend of hands-on experience and training. These options can often be completed faster and more affordably than a four-year college degree:
- Apprenticeships: Many trades offer formal apprenticeship programs where beginners learn on the job from experienced mentors.
- Trade Schools: Vocational schools provide structured education, equipping students with the skills they need to succeed in specific trades.
- On-the-Job Training: Some students enter trades as helpers or laborers and learn through hands-on experience.
- Certifications: Industry-specific certifications can boost career prospects and demonstrate expertise, allowing students to quickly enter the workforce.
At the Align Center for Workforce Development, we work with employers, job seekers, and students to help equip Lenawee County with the most in-demand careers. Contact us today to explore resources for students and parents who are considering the skilled trades as an alternative to the traditional college route.