Making a career change can be an intimidating prospect.
What field best suits your skills, strengths, and passions?
And how do you get started?
The good news is that trades offer an excellent place to start carving out a new path. Trades can provide steady work, good pay, and opportunities for growth and advancement.
And best of all, many trades have relatively low barriers to entry, requiring little more than a willingness to learn, practice, and work hard. If you’re ready to mix up your career, here are some trades you can start today.
HVAC Technician
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems are critical to keeping homes, businesses, and other buildings comfortable and healthy. As an HVAC technician, you would install, repair, and maintain these systems, using your knowledge of mechanics, electrical wiring, and safety codes.
HVAC technicians typically earn about $23 per hour and often receive on-the-job training or attend vocational schools or community colleges.
If you’re interested in becoming an HVAC technician, there are a few places you can look for training. Many trade schools offer programs specifically designed for aspiring HVAC technicians.
Community colleges also often have courses and certification programs available. You can also reach out to local heating and cooling companies to inquire about apprenticeships or on-the-job training opportunities.
It’s important to research and compare different training options to find the best fit for your needs and schedule. Additionally, some states require HVAC technicians to be licensed, so be sure to check your state’s requirements before beginning your training.
Pest Control
Pest control work may not be the first thing that comes to mind when considering a career change, but it can offer stability and satisfaction. As a pest control worker, you would inspect buildings and properties for signs of pests, identify the type of infestation, and use appropriate methods to eliminate them.
This trade requires attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and physical stamina. Many pest control workers learn on the job, but some states may require Structural Pest Control Board certification. The average hourly wage for a pest control worker is $19.35.
Aircraft Technician
The aviation industry is always in need of skilled aircraft technicians to keep planes safe and in proper working order. As an aircraft technician, you would inspect, repair, and maintain various systems and components of airplanes. This trade requires specialized training and knowledge of mechanics, electronics, and safety procedures.
Training programs can be found at vocational schools or community colleges, with on-the-job training also offered by some employers. The average hourly wage for an aircraft technician is $31.51, making it a well-paying trade to consider.
Carpenter
Carpentry involves constructing and repairing structures made of wood or other materials. Carpenters work on everything from homes and buildings to furniture and cabinets, using skills such as measuring, cutting, and shaping materials, and operating power and hand tools.
As a carpenter, you would need to have good hand-eye coordination, a willingness to work outdoors, and an ability to read and interpret blueprints and schematics. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, carpenters earn about $24 per hour, and many receive on-the-job training or attend vocational schools.
Learning carpentry not only provides you with a valuable trade that is in demand, but it also offers several other advantages. First and foremost, carpentry allows for creativity and the satisfaction of seeing your work come to life.
You have the opportunity to work on a variety of projects and see tangible results from your hard work. Additionally, carpentry can be physically demanding, providing a sense of accomplishment and keeping you active.
Mechanic
Mechanics are essential in keeping vehicles and equipment running smoothly. Whether working on cars, trucks, or other machines, mechanics use their knowledge of engines, hydraulics, and electronics to diagnose issues and make repairs.
This trade requires a strong understanding of technical systems and the ability to work with precision and attention to detail. Many mechanics learn through apprenticeships or vocational schools, and the average hourly wage is $19.57.
If you’re interested in pursuing a career as a mechanic, there are several options for learning the trade. Many vocational schools offer programs specifically for aspiring mechanics, providing hands-on training and experience with different types of vehicles and equipment. Community colleges also often have courses and certification programs available.
other related articles of interest:
College is Not for Me – What’s Next?
Trade School Vs Traditional College: Which is Right for You?
Plumber
From fixing leaky faucets to installing complex plumbing systems in new buildings, plumbers play a crucial role in maintaining our water supply and infrastructure. As a plumber, you would need to have a good understanding of pipe systems, be physically fit and comfortable working in tight spaces.
Training for this trade can be found at vocational schools or through apprenticeships, and the average hourly wage is $26.49. With an expected growth rate of 14% over the next decade, plumbing offers a promising career path.
Trades offer a wide range of opportunities for those looking to make a career change. From carpentry to pest control, these trades provide stability, good pay, and opportunities for growth.
With relatively low barriers to entry and many options for training and education, it’s never too late to mix up your career and find a fulfilling trade that suits your skills and interests. So don’t be afraid to take the leap and explore these trades that you can start today!
Image Credit: check out these trades by envato.com
end of post … please share it!
| envato.com |
FIND: getting ready for winter
Comments