As an alternative to a more conventional four-year university, many recent high school graduates find that trade school provides a more stable and cost-effective way to enter the workforce and advance in their careers. Trade schools, sometimes called technical colleges or vocational schools, help students get specialized training in in-demand occupations so that they can find work after graduation. Discover the best trade school careers in our comprehensive guide.
We’ll go over the qualifications needed, salary range, and everyday tasks for each profession. Additionally, we will go over the predicted expansion of these prominent trade school careers.
Trade School Careers
There are many other paths to a comfortable life outside of getting a bachelor’s degree. Many people are increasingly choosing trade school programs that give them the essential information and practical skills for the career they have chosen. These trade school programs help students become job-ready in a shorter amount of time. They provide a more inexpensive and stable path, with specialized hands-on instruction in the highest-paying trade school positions.
Trade schools provide programs ranging in length from eight weeks to two years. A trade school certificate would take less time, whereas an associate degree could take up to two years. Graduates can become apprentices, take licensure examinations, or look for work directly after graduation.
#1. Marine Mechanics
Marine mechanics must have highly specialized skills to keep watercraft working properly. Seaports and marinas are common places to find work. However, there are boats in inland regions as well, such as amusement parks. There are also mobile marine mechanics that locate and assist stranded vessels. This position’s duties include testing electrical systems, fuel systems, rigging, and other duties.
To keep the watercraft functioning smoothly, mechanics test and replace parts as needed. Other responsibilities include educating clients on necessary repairs and preventative maintenance.
#2. Web Developers
These information technology (IT) specialists design websites, including the overall appearance and page layout. Web developers, depending on their function, are also in charge of back-end technical aspects such as the site’s performance speed and traffic capacity. They can also serve as webmasters, updating content, assessing usability, and resolving issues such as broken links.
Note: While some web developers learn on the job, the vast majority have an associate's degree in the field, which combines visual design with computer programming. A bachelor's or master's degree in web development is usually required to work in management or for specialist positions like full-stack development.
#3. Plumber
Professional plumbers install and maintain liquid and gas piping systems in residences, business buildings, and industrial sites. Plumbers assess homes and prepare cost estimates for tasks such as adding a bathtub and fixing a damaged pipe or fixture. Construction plumbers operate in groups to guarantee that the plumbing on a job site meets building rules and federal standards.
Almost two-thirds of plumbers work for a contracting firm. To become a plumber, you’ll normally need to finish a 4-5 year apprenticeship. Many plumbers have a certificate or an associate degree as well. Although they may work independently, most states require plumbers to apply for a license.
#4. Auto Body Technician
Repairing damaged vehicles and trucks is what auto body repairmen do all day. These workers prepare car pieces by painting and sanding them before assembling the vehicles. Auto bodyworkers are also renowned for restoring antiquated autos. This job requires a lot of labor with power tools, which can be quite noisy. Workers often come into contact with a lot of paint fumes and dust. However, most shops have good ventilation.
Auto body repair workers are often in cramped quarters and uncomfortable positions, so being physically fit is advantageous.
Top Trade School Careers
Trade school programs can be completed in six months or less. Trade schools, which are solely dedicated to vocational education, provide a curriculum that includes hands-on training as well as classroom theories while excluding general education subjects. Every course in a vocational or trade school aims to teach specific skills and provide practical knowledge. Welders, for example, only attend welding courses and practical training, and plumbers only take plumbing courses and practical training.
Upon completing your trade school education, you will have the necessary qualifications and job experience to enhance your value as an applicant. By forming partnerships with businesses that run apprenticeship programs, the majority of trade schools additionally assist their graduates in finding employment.
#1. Computer Programmer
The primary responsibility of a computer programmer is to write and test codes that assure the proper operation of software and applications. While the job outlook for programmers is expected to diminish through 2030, computer programming remains one of the highest-paying trade skills today, and learning a new programming language is essential for thriving in this lucrative field.
On the other hand, computer programmers typically work in computer systems design and have an associate degree; however, some have a bachelor’s degree. Employers often prefer to hire programmers who specialize in a certain programming language. Computer programmers are analytical and detail-oriented individuals.
#2. Dentist/Dental Hygienist
Overall, dental hygienists are the ones who examine patients for indicators of oral illness to aid dentists in maintaining oral hygiene. Dental hygienists provide preventive care and teach patients how to care for their teeth. Dental hygienists often hold an associate degree that takes three years to finish. Most states require licensed dental hygienists.
Dental hygienists are proficient in evaluating patients’ dental health. Some states allow dental hygienists to work without the supervision of a dentist. They are problem solvers and are well-versed in dental procedures.
Dental hygienists must also have strong interpersonal and communication skills, both verbal and nonverbal, to offer their services.
#3. IT Professional
IT technicians, often known as computer support professionals, work in departmental teams to install and manage WANs, LANs, and internet networks. They also protect themselves by protecting against cybercriminals and recovering stolen digital assets. IT specialists may occasionally provide customer assistance by educating consumers on how to utilize new software or hardware and assisting them in troubleshooting typical issues.
#4. Legal Assistants
Legal assistants and paralegals assist lawyers by completing administrative chores such as managing digital filing systems, preparing formal documents such as mortgages and contracts, and enabling contact between witnesses, law enforcement, and outside suppliers. They also help with trial preparation by researching applicable rules and personal backgrounds.
The majority of legal assistants work for law offices and law firms, with the remainder working for government agencies and financial institutions such as banks and insurance companies.
Although an associate degree is usually required to work as a paralegal or legal assistant, many employers give preference to applicants with a bachelor’s degree in paralegal studies and a certificate from an ABA-approved institution.
Best-Paying Trade School Careers
People who wish to earn a solid income without spending years in college might consider attending trade school. In fact, many trade school jobs pay more than the national average for college graduates. Here are some of the highest-paying trade school jobs:
#1. Elevator Installation and Repair
These technicians build, maintain, and repair elevators, escalators, moving walkways, chairlifts, and other automobile lifts. Before installing and testing the elevator, they read construction drawings to determine what type of machinery and related components to use. Elevator technicians do routine maintenance to guarantee compliance with building rules and government safety standards, in addition to detecting issues.
Elevator technicians often work as contractors for private firms’ equipment.
#2. Electricians
Electricians are responsible for the installation, maintenance, and repair of electrical systems. They work on both business and residential properties. Electricians can earn a median annual salary of $56,180.
#3. HVAC Specialists
HVAC specialists install, maintain, and repair heating and air conditioning systems. They work on both business and residential properties. These are only a few of the numerous high-paying trade school jobs accessible. With a little investigation, you can choose a trade school that will provide you with the training you need to launch a successful career in an area that interests you.
#4. Dental Hygienist
Dental hygienists play an important role in assisting patients in improving their dental health. They seek out indicators of disease and treat them with cleanings, preventative measures, and patient education before they worsen. They use a variety of devices, motorized tools, and X-rays.
Where Can You Find Dental Hygienists?
Most dental hygienists work in dental offices. In 2021, 94% of dental hygienists worked in private and community dental offices, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
The majority of dental hygienists hold an associate degree. A bachelor’s degree in dental hygiene can help you find work in hospitals, health clinics, community centers, and schools.
Online Trade School
Online trade schools provide a handy and cost-effective option to learn a new trade. You can learn at your own pace and on your schedule by attending online trade schools. Subsequently, you also receive the same high-quality education that you would receive at a regular trade school.
There are numerous kinds of online trade schools to choose from. Some colleges provide programs in a range of trades, while others specialize in one. There are programs available in anything from welding to carpentry to cosmetology.
It is crucial to conduct research when selecting an online trade school. Check to see if a reputable organization has accredited the school. You should also look at the school’s job placement rate to see how its alumni do.
The cost of attending an online trade school varies depending on the school and program you select. A program, on the other hand, will normally cost between $5,000 and $10,000. Some colleges provide financial aid, so inquire about it when you apply.
Overall, online trade schools can be an excellent method to learn a new skill and launch a new career. You can select the ideal school for you and begin your new path with a little investigation.
Generally speaking, the type of online trade school program determines whether or not it is accessible.
A large number of trade school programs rely on experience in the classroom, making fully online education impractical. However, practical training in vocational programs sometimes necessitates hands-on experience, and online learning can supplement that.
Getting students hands-on experience is a cornerstone of many trade programs, including those for plumbing, nursing, and electrical work. Internships are a requirement of many vocational certificate programs, giving students the chance to put what they’ve studied into practice while also networking with working professionals.
What Is the Best-Paying Trade Job?
To a large extent, the oil and gas sector offers the best-paying trade jobs. Working on an oil or gas rig can earn you a median salary of $107,510 per year, or so the BLS reports. Plumbers ($56,330), HVAC technicians ($56,180), and electricians ($81,240) are a few other well-paying technical occupations.
Undoubtedly, your geography, interests, and skill set will determine the highest-paying trade employment in your area. You should be ready to put in a lot of time and effort if you want to work in the oil and gas sector. Still, you’ll get to travel the world while contributing to some of the most ambitious projects, and your salary can be terrific.
What Are the Highest Paying Trade School Salaries?
In May 2021, the typical yearly salary for professionals working in the elevator industry was approximately $100,000, according to the BLS. This puts them at the top of the list. Furthermore, according to the BLS, dental hygienists and radiation therapists earn median yearly wages of more than $77,000, putting them among the top trade earners.
Equally, factors like experience, licensure, and geographic location can have a significant impact on earning potential.
What Is the Hardest Trade to Learn?
Many people believe that trade jobs that demand a lot of physical strength, stamina, and expertise are the most challenging. Some examples of occupations in this category are operating heavy machinery, welding underwater, operating ironworkers, and oil rig workers.
What’s the Quickest Trade to Learn?
Buildings, furniture, and homes are just some of the things that carpenters create, renovate, and install using wood and other materials. This is one of the quickest trades to master, with training programs taking like six months to a year at the most.
How Long Are Trade School Programs?
There is no set duration for a trade school program; however, most fall anywhere between eight months and two years. Students at trade schools do not get a bachelor’s degree like those at four-year universities; instead, they get a certificate or diploma in their chosen field.
Can You Attend Online Trade School Programs?
There are a wide range of online trade schools to choose from. Some schools provide credential programs in multiple fields, while others focus on a specific cluster of professions, like HVAC or car repair.
What Trades Will Be Most in Demand?
To begin, have a look at this guide that lists all of the skilled trade jobs that will be in demand in 2024.
Expertise in the following areas: residential electrical work, plumbing, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVACR) systems, construction, carpentry, industrial engineering, automotive repair, and diesel mechanics.
Check out the: Top 20+ Skilled Trades for Women in 2023: Salary and Prospect
Conclusion
You should now have a better notion of what kinds of trade jobs pay the most, thanks to the list of the highest-paying trade jobs. There are several factors to consider before deciding that a trade school is the best option for your postsecondary education rather than a four-year university. Think carefully about your situation and weigh the pros and cons of trade school vs. college.
When compared to four-year colleges, trade schools provide several benefits that could be crucial to your future professional success.
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