Do you have a passion for do-it-yourself projects? Or perhaps you’re thinking a four-year college degree path may not be right for you? Many Americans choose to forge their own way by choosing a trade school or a trade certification program over college.
Let’s discuss a few certification options for practical, real-world careers that can propel you into a secure financial future after high school.
1. General Contracting + Building
Are you the go-to in your family to work on a bathroom remodel or pull up old carpet? If you’re handy with a hammer, you may consider a career as a general contractor. You’ll get to work with your hands and communicate one-on-one with clients while you transform property to fit your shared vision.
Within contracting, there are many specialized skills you can study, but you must first apply for your Class A, B, or Class C contractor’s license and comply with the various regulations in your state in order to begin. Construction laws and permits vary by state; get your education from a reputable source so you can safely begin your career in construction.
2. Plumber
Would you like to learn how pipes fit in a house like a beautiful, technical maze? You may be interested in becoming a plumber or pipefitter. Plumbers are responsible for more than just clogs and burst pipes; you’ll be able to create blueprints for how pipes are installed throughout homes, factories, or office buildings.
A plumber must be an excellent problem solver who is a great people person. Most plumbers become an apprentice and train under an expert when they first start out, alongside studying for a trade certification in this discipline. If you want to become a plumber, you can start by joining an online course as there are many online plumbing courses.
3. Industrial Engineering Technician
If you are interested in learning how factories run and assisting in smooth and efficient machine operation, consider becoming an industrial engineering tech. Much like a dental technician, this position supports the industrial engineer. You work together alongside a team of specialists to optimize equipment layout, perfect operation methods, and perform other integral duties that make equipment run more efficiently.
Most industrial engineering techs attend a technical school or get an associate’s degree before they become certified. If you’re interested in learning more about this career, consider becoming an apprentice. You can also visit onlytradeschools.com to join online classes for online courses offered by various institutes.
4. Mechanic
If you have a passion for motor vehicles and what makes them tick, consider becoming a car mechanic. Spend your day dissecting cars and diagnosing various issues for customers in your community, or become a mobile equipment mechanic and repair machinery and vehicles used for farming, construction, and transportation.
Due to the complex nature of these machines, many want to hire a mechanic who has gone through a two-year certificate program and learned how to handle the latest technology.
5. HVAC Technician
If you have a passion for helping others and want to work on improving homes in your community, consider starting an HVAC company. These specialized mechanics work on installing and repairing refrigeration systems, ventilation, and heating and cooling for various homes and businesses. HVAC technicians usually earn a certificate from a specialized trade school or attend community college.
6. Sheet Metal Worker
If you are interested in working with your hands, becoming a sheet metal worker may be a great option for you. Sheet metal workers install and construct various projects using sheet metal, and spend their days carefully measuring, marking sheets for building. For more information on the qualifications needed, check out the education requirements for welding. This job can also entail welding, riveting, cutting, and soldering sheet metal for construction. Most sheet metal workers become an apprentice while they study for their trade certification from a technical school.
These are just a few of the many options out there for you; if you’re interested in pursuing a trade, learning a specialized skill, or getting a trade certification, there are many different paths you can take. When you choose a trade school or certification, you can save money while learning a future-focused skill that will financially provide and propel you into the future.
