2 answers
Jose
Student
2
Questions
Asked
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What is the hardest part about being in the trades, and what have you learned?
Do you have any life lessons or just general knowledge about your field. Medical coverage, job security, good pay etc.
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2 answers
Doc Frick
Career Coach and Mentor
1870
Answers
California, CA
Updated
Doc’s Answer
Jose trade jobs can be a great option if you enjoy challenging, hands-on work. Jobs in this field usually require vocational schooling or training and often pay well for the specialized skill set they require. While many trade jobs require you to attend a trade or technical school, some require you to complete an apprenticeship through an employer. An apprenticeship program is a type of paid vocational training program that teaches industry skills for a specific position. Most apprentices are full-time, paid employees. Many apprentices complete these programs to learn skilled trades, such as Electrical, Carpentry, Mechanical, Welding, Plumbing, etc. Take a moment to think about what kind(s) of trades you are interested in. Then, do some research to find a trade that aligns with you interests and talents.
1️⃣ SOLAR INSTALLER: Starting Salary $70,000
A solar installer, also known as a solar photovoltaic installer, is responsible for the installation, maintenance and repair of solar energy systems. They primarily set up solar panels on rooftops and other structures to convert sunlight into renewable energy. Solar installers play a crucial role in promoting environmental sustainability, leading to cleaner air, reduced water usage and a significant decrease in greenhouse gas emissions. To pursue a career as a solar installer, it's generally preferred to have a high school diploma or equivalent. Enrolling in a trade school program is an effective way to acquire the necessary skills for becoming a solar technician. These specialized programs can range in duration from six weeks to one year
2️⃣ ELECTRICIANS: Starting Salary $66,000
Electricians have been keeping the lights on for over a century— They install, maintain, and repair electrical systems and equipment that allows everything from microwaves to massive manufacturing equipment to run. Becoming an electrician usually means going through specialized training courses at your local trade school or through local trade unions like the IBEW, which offer apprenticeships. While it can take a few years to become a journeyman or master electrician, most apprentice electrician jobs pay while you learn and get to apply your training in real time.
3️⃣ PLUMBERS: Starting Salary: $63,000
In this line of work, you’ll assemble, install, and repair pipelines or pipe systems. It requires thinking ahead and being able to communicate clearly with both clients and your peers. Much like electricians, training to become a plumber or pipefitter typically involves attending trade courses at your local trade school, as well as apprenticeships. From there, most plumbing and pipefitting locals pay their apprentices, so you’ll get paid while you learn.
4️⃣ AUTO TECH: Starting Salary $60,000
An automotive technician specializes in the inspection, maintenance and repair of vehicles. These professionals ensure that cars and trucks operate safely and efficiently. To qualify as an automotive electrician, obtaining a high school diploma or GED is essential, along with gaining practical experience through trade school programs. Earning industry certifications, such as those offered by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence, can improve employment opportunities in this field.
5️⃣ CARPENTERS: Starting Salary: $55,000
Carpenters will literally always be in demand—after all, this job is thousands of years old and has withstood the test of time, wars, and the digital age. They have acute mathematics and coordinating skills and have a discerning eye for quality in their work. Community colleges across the country provide affordable carpentry certificates that you can earn within less than a year. However, many professional training programs and trade unions also offer paid training and apprenticeships so you can get on-the-job training.
CONCLUSION
Trade jobs, particularly those focused on technology and sustainability, are rapidly emerging as the careers of the future due to their growing demand. The accelerated development of technology across industries has created a need for skilled workers who can install, maintain and repair complex systems.
Hope this was helpful Jose
1️⃣ SOLAR INSTALLER: Starting Salary $70,000
A solar installer, also known as a solar photovoltaic installer, is responsible for the installation, maintenance and repair of solar energy systems. They primarily set up solar panels on rooftops and other structures to convert sunlight into renewable energy. Solar installers play a crucial role in promoting environmental sustainability, leading to cleaner air, reduced water usage and a significant decrease in greenhouse gas emissions. To pursue a career as a solar installer, it's generally preferred to have a high school diploma or equivalent. Enrolling in a trade school program is an effective way to acquire the necessary skills for becoming a solar technician. These specialized programs can range in duration from six weeks to one year
2️⃣ ELECTRICIANS: Starting Salary $66,000
Electricians have been keeping the lights on for over a century— They install, maintain, and repair electrical systems and equipment that allows everything from microwaves to massive manufacturing equipment to run. Becoming an electrician usually means going through specialized training courses at your local trade school or through local trade unions like the IBEW, which offer apprenticeships. While it can take a few years to become a journeyman or master electrician, most apprentice electrician jobs pay while you learn and get to apply your training in real time.
3️⃣ PLUMBERS: Starting Salary: $63,000
In this line of work, you’ll assemble, install, and repair pipelines or pipe systems. It requires thinking ahead and being able to communicate clearly with both clients and your peers. Much like electricians, training to become a plumber or pipefitter typically involves attending trade courses at your local trade school, as well as apprenticeships. From there, most plumbing and pipefitting locals pay their apprentices, so you’ll get paid while you learn.
4️⃣ AUTO TECH: Starting Salary $60,000
An automotive technician specializes in the inspection, maintenance and repair of vehicles. These professionals ensure that cars and trucks operate safely and efficiently. To qualify as an automotive electrician, obtaining a high school diploma or GED is essential, along with gaining practical experience through trade school programs. Earning industry certifications, such as those offered by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence, can improve employment opportunities in this field.
5️⃣ CARPENTERS: Starting Salary: $55,000
Carpenters will literally always be in demand—after all, this job is thousands of years old and has withstood the test of time, wars, and the digital age. They have acute mathematics and coordinating skills and have a discerning eye for quality in their work. Community colleges across the country provide affordable carpentry certificates that you can earn within less than a year. However, many professional training programs and trade unions also offer paid training and apprenticeships so you can get on-the-job training.
CONCLUSION
Trade jobs, particularly those focused on technology and sustainability, are rapidly emerging as the careers of the future due to their growing demand. The accelerated development of technology across industries has created a need for skilled workers who can install, maintain and repair complex systems.
Hope this was helpful Jose
Brianna Tillman, MBA
Program Coordinator
4
Answers
Houston, Texas
Updated
Brianna’s Answer
I used to work in the facilities department at a hospital, and I have some advice. Your skills will always be valued. The hospital I worked at offered pension, 401K, PTO, and more. The work is physical but steady. Look into the hospital industry for trades positions. Keep up with your skills and if your job pays for school then pursue your degree in construction management or business administration. This will give you leverage for leadership/management positions.