6 Reasons To Learn A Trade That You Might Want To Be Considering
Many people still believe that a college education is still the key toward building a solid career and financially successful life. And while a degree is necessary if you want to pursue a career as a doctor, dentist, or teacher, a college degree isn't necessary for everyone.
If you learn a trade from a skilled trade school, you might be surprised how many lucrative opportunities are available to help you build financial stability and even a business of your own.
Let's take a look at 6 good reasons to learn a trade:
1. Learn a Trade and Gain Immediate Experience
Many people struggle in a classroom environment with lots of lectures and would do better in more of a hands-on setting. If you're among those who do better with learning on the job and you're hoping to gain "real world" experience along the way, a skilled trade might be the way to go.
When you learn a trade, you gain immediate experience during your apprenticeship. Instead of trying to compete for an unpaid internship, you'll start off gaining skills from experienced professionals right away.
2. The Cost is Easier to Swallow
Traditional college education comes with a hefty price tag, more so than ever before. The average cost of tuition at a public college for in-state students is $10,000 a year. If you're an out-of-state student or attending a private university, you can expect to pay even more.
Plus, many college graduates leave with a lot of student debt and little experience in which to pursue a career. Those who pursue a trade typically carry far less debt once they're done with school.
3. Trade School Takes Half the Time
College students can expect to spend at least 4 years in university to obtain a Bachelor's degree while trade skill students are done in about two years after which they can begin earning a good income. Learn a trade and waste no time making an income you can support yourself and a family with.
4. Skilled Trade Experts Make a Decent Living
Statistics show that the average college graduate makes less than $50,000 out of college. But an entry-level sheet metal worker, for example, can make an average of $52,100 a year according to the U.S. News & World Report. With added experience comes even better pay.
Though salaries will vary depending on the company size, state of employment, industry, and experience, skilled trade experts make a good living across the board.
5. A High Demand for Tradespeople
There's a big demand for people with skills in various trades. As the population continues to grow and baby boomers are retiring in large numbers, there's a big need for knowledgeable plumbers, carpenters, welders, metal fabricators, HVAC technicians, and more.
Since these trades are always needed, there's plenty of opportunity for employment, growing your own business in one of these trades, and strong job security.
6. Put Your Skills to Use
Many college graduates end up settling for careers that aren't even related to their degree and many of them go into student loan debt for degrees that don't open many doors.
With a trade skill, you gain the education and training for the specific job you're interested in, and you can put those skills to use in the industry you intended. With these skills, you can apply for a specific job and chances are good you'll get the job.
Begin Today
If you want to learn a trade and begin a promising career, there's no better time than the present! If you feel like this might be a good path for you, there are many reasons to be optimistic about moving forward with learning a trade.
While you're here, be sure to check out our other useful resources for people who are serious about succeeding in business, no matter what kind of business piques your interest.