Is it really worthwhile to spend the money and put in the effort to get a bachelor's degree? This is a question that a great number of people are asking themselves these days. As a result of the continuously rising price of tuition, an increasing number of individuals are considering any and all education alternatives that can lead to a lucrative career.
Trade school programs are one of the educational alternatives that so many are looking into, and for good reason. Many trade school programs provide lower-cost educational options as well as a variety of programs to choose from.
Given the variety of programs available through trade school programs, there are a variety of careers that one can pursue when choosing to attend a trade school. In fact, there are some careers you may be surprised to discover don’t require a bachelor’s degree.
A trade school is a specific kind of educational institution that teaches students the skills necessary to work in a certain profession. Trade schools may also be referred to as vocational or technical schools. Programs offered by trade schools normally span between one and two years and lead to the completion of a certificate or diploma.
Some vocational institutions also provide associate's degrees in their respective fields. Programs will vary in duration, but many can be completed within two years. This is because trade programs are designed in such a way that students are taught the essential skills for that given career path, as opposed to traditional universities that require a variety of pre-requisite courses in order for a degree to be obtained.
Attending a trade school may provide one with several advantages, including the following:
One of the primary benefits of attending a trade school is the lower cost of tuition.
In 2022, studies found that the average student attending a 4-year, in-state university is paying over $25,000 in tuition.
The cost of attending a trade school might vary widely depending on the program and institution that you choose; nevertheless, on average, these costs are far less than those of regular universities.
Another advantage of attending a trade school is that the programs are often far more condensed than those offered at regular colleges. The majority of programs offered at trade schools may be finished in one to two years.
Given that the duration of these programs is shorter, individuals who pursue a trade school education have the opportunity to enter the workforce sooner than students who attend a 4-year university.
Another significant benefit of attending a trade school is the variety of programs that are available. The benefits that we’re listing out aren’t solely for the more commonly known trades, such as welding, plumbing, and electrical. There are a significant amount of programs that can lead to very lucrative and enjoyable careers. We’ll go over those in just a moment.
One of the many advantages of attending a vocational school is the possibility of flexible course schedules. When you have a full-time job or when you are responsible for taking care of your family, it can be a bit overwhelming to try and add school into the mix.
Trade school programs offer flexible schedules and online program opportunities so that individuals who are juggling more than one responsibility can tackle classes and work towards their education when it works for them.
Without a doubt, one of the factors that sets trade school programs apart from those of 4-year universities is the learning approach. Given that many trade programs require one to be a master of their skill, most programs will have hands-on learning and training to provide real-world experience with the trade.
So, not only will you be able to acquire the abilities you need by listening to lectures, but you will also have the chance to learn those skills by really doing them. The ability to spend time physically completing the skill can contribute to additional confidence once actually starting a job in the profession.
A further benefit of attending a trade school is that, in comparison to four-year universities, the typical class sizes at trade schools are more manageable. Given that programs are shorter, most trade schools are able to run various programs throughout the year, meaning that classes don’t have to be large in order to run. This setup provides the opportunity for additional one-on-one discussions with instructors.
Many programs offered by trade schools also include internships or other chances to obtain practical experience in the real world. This may be an excellent opportunity for you to break into the field that you have decided to pursue. Again, this opportunity to gain some experience in the real world can contribute to confidence levels and make getting started in the workforce significantly less intimidating.
Many trade schools will have good relationships with companies that are eager to hire individuals within a certain trade. Many trade schools, including PCI, will help students build connections so that finding a job post completion of the program can be significantly easier. Alongside that, there are some trade schools that have relationships with companies so that students can network directly with these professionals even while they’re still completing the program.
Many students who attend a traditional university will spend their time in classrooms, learning the ins and outs of a career, but they will get very little hands-on exdperience or opportunities to prepare for the workforce. That’s simply not the case when it comes to trade school programs.
Of course, many programs will have an intensive classroom portion where students will learn aspects of the career, but many trade programs will encourage hands on learning so that students can truly learn these skills.
Beyond hands-on experience, PCI also helps students prepare for the work force in additional ways. Something that is covered in all of the programs that we offer at PCI is a resume building workshop where we help students create a strong resume that they can use once they’ve completed the program.
With a little more knowledge on what a trade school is and how it differs from a traditional university, let’s take a look into some of the career options available through trade school. Here are some of the most popular career opportunities:
Electricians are responsible for the installation, maintenance, and repair of various electrical systems. In addition to this, they electricians complete tests on electrical equipment to guarantee that it is both risk-free and operationally sound.
Although certain positions may need completion of an apprenticeship program, electricians typically have a high school diploma or equivalent as their minimum educational requirement.
Being an electrician calls for a strong physical presence, skill with one's hands, and a keen sense of equilibrium. Electricians usually work full-time, and in order to fulfill their deadlines, they may have to put in extra hours.
Installing, maintaining, and repairing heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems are the primary responsibilities of HVAC professionals. In addition to this, HVAC technicians carry out preventive maintenance on the systems to ensure that they continue to function normally.
The majority of HVAC technicians have completed an HVAC technician program through a trade school and have a high school education at the very least. A license to practice as an HVAC technician is also necessary in certain states.
As a technician for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC), it is required of you that you be physically strong and able to move heavy things. In addition to this, you should be able to solve problems effectively and be self-sufficient in your job. Having strong communication and organizational skills are additional traits that can help an individual within the HVAC industry.
Plumbers are responsible for the installation, repair, and maintenance of plumbing systems. Plumbers will also install fixtures that are tied to pipes in any way, some of the more common being toilets, showers, and sinks.
Even while certain positions may call for completion of an apprenticeship program, the majority of plumbing employment requires applicants to have at least a high school education.
Being a plumber calls for a strong physical presence, skill with one's hands, and an acute awareness of one's surroundings. Plumbers often work full-time, and in order to reach their deadlines, they may have to put in extra hours.
Welders use heat from a welding machine to attach pieces of metal to one another. In addition to that, welders may also utilize other techniques, like as brazing or soldering.
The majority of welders have at least the equivalent of a high school diploma. Aside from a high school diploma, welders are required to complete a trade school program where they will learn techniques, safety protocols, and the like. Additional training and education can be completed if there is a specific industry or type of welding that an individual wants to pursue.
Welders need to have a strong physical build and excellent hand-eye coordination in order to be successful. They also need to be able to function well in confined quarters.
Carpenters are responsible for the construction, maintenance, and installation of wooden structures, including but not limited to buildings, scaffolding, and bridges.
The majority of people who work in carpentry have at least a high school education. There are two primary ways that carpenters acquire their expertise: via an apprenticeship program and thro Tower Technicianugh on-the-job training. A majority of carpenters will have also taken a handful of classes that help them learn basic carpentry skills, but a majority of their talent will be developed after they’ve completed a variety of projects.
Carpenters are required to have a strong physique and the ability to carry heavy things. In addition to this, they need to have excellent hand-eye coordination and attention to detail.
Tower technicians are the professionals that are in charge of the building, maintenance, and installation of mobile phone towers and other structures that are associated to this industry.
The majority of tower technicians have completed some level of secondary schooling post high school graduation. Apprenticeship programs and training gained on the job are the two ways by which individuals might acquire and fine tune their skills, but there is often a base of knowledge that they start the job with.
In order to be effective in this field, tower technicians need to have a robust physical build in addition to outstanding hand-eye coordination. In addition to this, they need to be able to perform well in restricted spaces.
Wind turbine technicians are responsible for the maintenance, repairs, and installation of wind turbines across the country.
The vast majority of professionals who work in this industry have completed a trade school program where they gain the base knowledge needed to enter the wind turbine industry. Apprenticeship programs and training gained on the job offer a huge opportunity for individuals to gain additional skills.
Technicians who work on wind turbines need to have a robust physical build in addition to outstanding hand-eye coordination in order to be successful in their careers. In addition to this, they need to be able to perform well in restricted spaces.
Air traffic controllers play a vital role in the aviation industry by providing instructions to pilots and ensuring the safety of everyone involved.
The majority of air traffic controllers have completed some level of tertiary education, although this is not always a requirement. In some cases, air traffic controllers may be able to enter the field with on-the-job training or even an apprenticeship program.
Air traffic controllers need to have sharp reflexes and excellent hand-eye coordination in order to be successful at their jobs. They also need to be able to think quickly and make decisions under pressure.
Technicians in wind energy technology are the professionals who are in charge of building, maintaining, and installing wind turbines.
The vast majority of professionals who are employed in this sector have, at the very least, finished some type of secondary education to provide them with their base knowledge required for this industry. Apprenticeship programs and training that is acquired on the job are the two primary ways that people can improve and learn additional skills for the job. That being said, this is one of the professions where additional education in the form of an associates or bachelors degree is also possible.
To be successful in their employment, technicians who work on wind turbines need to have a sturdy physical build in addition to having excellent hand-eye coordination. This is because wind turbines are large, complex machines. In addition to this, they need to be able to function well in confined areas.
Installers and repairers of elevators are the individuals who are accountable for the construction, maintenance, and repair of elevators.
Even though it is not usually required, the majority of elevator installers and repairers have at least a secondary education when entering the work force. However, this is not always the case. Apprenticeships and other forms of on-the-job training may sometimes be sufficient to qualify individuals for entry-level positions in this industry.
In order to be effective in their occupations, those who want to work as elevator installers and repairers need to have a robust physical build. They should also be able to think swiftly and make judgments even when they are under a lot of stress.
Installers and repairers of electrical power lines are the individuals who are accountable for the construction, maintenance, and repair of electrical power lines.
Even though having a high school diploma or the equivalent is not necessarily necessary, the vast majority of people who work in the field of installing and repairing electrical power lines have at least that level of education. Apprenticeships and other forms of on-the-job training may sometimes be sufficient to qualify individuals for entry-level positions in this industry, but given that this role does work so closely with live wires, additional training or education may be required by companies in order for someone to get hired on.
In order to be successful at their employment, those who want to become electrical power-line installers and repairers need to have a robust physical build in addition to having outstanding hand-eye coordination. This is necessary in order for them to install and repair electrical power lines. They also need to have the ability to perform successfully at elevated positions.
The building of boilers, as well as their upkeep and repairs, are the responsibilities of boilermakers. Additionally, it is possible for them to be accountable for the building, maintenance, and repair of several different kinds of pressure vessels.
Although it is not necessarily necessary, most boilermakers will have finished high school before starting their career. In this industry, an apprenticeship and additional on-the-job training is fairly common.
To be successful in their work, those who want to become boilermakers need to have a robust physical build. Boilermakers are responsible for lifting heavy objects. They also need to be able to operate heavy machines and work well in precarious environments.
Machinists are professionals that build, maintain, and repair various types of machines. They are also responsible for ensuring that these machines work safely. This might refer to anything from simple household motors to complex pieces of heavy manufacturing equipment.
Although it is not usually required, the majority of machinists have completed at least some level of secondary school. Given that a machinist will work on various pieces of machinery, professionals in this industry will often have additional training to get familiar with the blue prints and functionality of the various machines.
In order to be successful in their work, those who want to become machinists need to have exceptional hand-eye coordination and an aptitude for mechanics. In addition to that, they need to be proficient with various kinds of tools and machines.Patience and problem solving skills are also valuable traits to have as a machinist.
Dental hygienists are the professionals in charge of providing preventive dental treatment in addition to cleaning patients' teeth. On addition to this, they need to instruct patients in the proper ways to care for their teeth and gums.
It is required that persons have finished at least an associate's degree in dental hygiene in order for them to be eligible for employment as dental hygienists. In addition to this, the state in where they want to operate requires that they have a license in order to legally practice there.
Hand-eye coordination and manual dexterity are two skills that are essential to success in the field of dental hygiene. In addition to this, they need to have the ability to communicate well with patients.
Web developers are the people who are in charge of the design, creation, and ongoing maintenance of websites. They are responsible for ensuring that the websites they design are not difficult to navigate and are appealing to the eye.
Individuals need to possess at least a bachelor's degree in computer science or a discipline that is closely linked to it in order to work as web developers. In addition to that, they need to have a strong command of a variety of programming languages and the tools used for web development. Additional training or education can be completed in the case that an individual wants to have a learn more about a specific topic within the web development world.
Web developers need to have great problem-solving abilities. In addition to this, they have to be able to keep their cool and operate well under time constraints.
Film editors are charged with the obligation of collecting all of the raw material that has been collected by a film team and stitching it together to produce a narrative that is consistent throughout. Because of this, it is necessary for them to have excellent detail awareness as well as a grasp of how to successfully convey a tale.
There is not a single predetermined course of study that one must follow in order to become a film editor. On the other hand, the majority of people working in this field have some degree of secondary school behind them. In addition to that, the majority of them have acquired training on the job by climbing the ranks of the business from lower-level roles to higher-level ones.
Anyone who wishes to have a career in film editing absolutely has to have exceptional organizing abilities. Additionally, in order for them to properly interact with the other members of the film team, they need to have excellent communication skills. Aside from that, a creative touch that one can turn into a vision is an extremely important trait for film editors to have.
The provision of assistance and support to cardiovascular surgeons is the responsibility of cardiovascular technicians. This involves preparing the operating room and the equipment to be used in it, scrubbing in for surgery, and assisting with the care of the patient once the procedure has been completed.
Those who wish to work in the area of cardiovascular technology need to have earned at least an associate's degree in a discipline that is related to the occupation. In addition to that, they are required to graduate from a certification program that is tailored to the particular field in which they work.
Technicians who work in the cardiovascular system need to have the ability to work under stressful situations. In addition to this, they have to be able to keep their cool under pressure and be very good at finding solutions to difficult problems. Communication is another skillset that proves to be extremely beneficial in this industry.
Food service managers are responsible for overseeing the daily operations of a food service establishment. This includes tasks such as menu planning, inventory management, and staff supervision.
Those who want to become food service managers need to have at least a high school diploma. In addition to that, they must complete a Food Protection Manager Certification Program. That being said, there are many instances where on the job training can provide ample education and experience for someone to move into a food service management position.
Food service managers need to be able to effectively communicate with those that they are supervising. In addition to this, they must have great organizational skills and be able to multitask effectively.
Court reporters are the individuals who are tasked with the duty of providing an accurate record of the events that take place in a court setting. As part of this, you will be responsible for responsibilities such as documenting objections, rereading evidence, and transcribing witness statements.
There is no one predetermined course of study that must be followed in order to become a court reporter. On the other hand, the majority of people working in this field have at least some degree of secondary education. In addition to this, they are required to graduate from an accredited court reporting school and get a passing score on the associated certification test.
The ability to type swiftly and properly scribe what is taking place in a court room is a need for those who work as court reporters. In addition to this, they need to have exceptional listening skills and the ability to pay close attention to detail.
Those who work in the field of multimedia art and animation are responsible for the production of 2D and 3D pictures that may be utilized in a wide range of various media. Among these activities is the creation of storyboards and storyboards for characters, as well as scene animation.
Those who are interested in working in the area of multimedia as animators or artists must get at least a bachelor's degree in a discipline that is relevant to the job, though entry level positions may accept individuals with lower levels of education. In addition to this, they need to have great creative abilities and be adept in the usage of a variety of software packages that are used on computers.
Creativity is an essential skill for anyone working in the fields of multimedia art and animation. They must also be able to operate well under duress and be able to fulfill stringent time constraints.
Professionals known as home inspectors are the individuals who are employed by prospective homebuyers in order to evaluate the state of the property prior to the completion of the sale of the house. As a part of this, they will be responsible for inspecting aspects of the house such as the state of the foundation, the roof, the gutters, and the downspouts.
In the majority of states, being a certified home inspector does not need any particular type of certification or degree. That being said, most individuals in this industry that intend to join this sector have at least some expertise in building or a field that is connected to construction. In addition to this, the majority of states require home inspectors to graduate from a training curriculum that is designed specifically for their jurisdiction so that they can better understand what to look for as inspections are completed.
It is necessary for home inspectors to be able to communicate clearly not just with their customers, but also with the individuals who are selling the house. In addition to this, they need to be able to pay careful attention to the smallest of details and have a comprehensive understanding of all the many elements that comprise a house.
Geological technicians are specialists that work with geologists to gather samples and perform different tests. Geologists rely on geological technicians to assist them in their job. They may be responsible for a variety of tasks, including performing land surveys and drilling holes in the ground in order to acquire samples. Among other things, this may fall within their purview.
A person has to have at least an associate's degree in an area related to geology in order to work in the field of geological technology. In addition to this, the majority of businesses also favor applicants who have previous experience working in the industry in question.
Geological technicians need to have excellent following skills and the ability to focus intently on the smallest of details. In addition to this, they need to be in good physical shape since the work often needs them to do a lot of walking and carry heavy equipment.
Collecting samples by drilling into the earth
Carrying out inspections and mapping of the land
Conducting analyses of the samples utilizing a variety of scientific techniques
Keeping track of data and putting up reports
Paralegals are skilled trades who give help to attorneys in a range of different ways. Lawyers may rely on paralegals for a variety of services. They could be responsible for a variety of tasks, such as performing research, creating papers, and engaging with customers, among other things. In some circumstances, they could also be accountable for performing routine administrative responsibilities.
The majority of legal assistants have earned at least an associate's degree in a field related to legal studies. On the other hand, certain businesses could favor applicants who have a bachelor's degree or higher in education. In addition to this, the majority of states require paralegals to get their certification before they are allowed to begin working in the field.
Communication skills, both verbal and written, are essential for success in the field of paralegal work. In addition to that, they need to be able to pay careful attention to the smallest of details and be very organized.
Brokers of real estate are specialists that assist clients in the buying and selling of real estate. They may be responsible for a variety of tasks, including the search for properties that are suitable for their customers, the negotiation of pricing, and the organization of financing. After the sale of the property, they may also be held accountable for its management in certain circumstances.
The majority of people who work in real estate have at least a high school education. Certain businesses may give preference to individuals who have completed at least one year of college. In addition to this, the majority of states require real estate brokers get a passing score on a license examination before they are allowed to begin operating.
It is necessary for real estate brokers to be able to communicate clearly not just with their customers but also with the individuals who are selling the property. In addition to this, they need to be well-versed in the real estate industry and have a solid understanding of the region in which they will be operating, especially when they're working with other professionals such as construction managers and construction and building inspectors.
Rehabilitation counselors are the experts who assist individuals with impairments, whether those disabilities be physical, mental, or emotional, in leading independent lives. They may be accountable for a variety of tasks, including the execution of evaluations, the formulation of treatment plans, and the provision of counseling services, among other things. They may also be responsible for working with other service providers to ensure that their customers get the highest level of care possible. This may fall within their purview in certain circumstances.
As one of the highest paying trade jobs, the majority of people who work in rehabilitation counseling have a bachelor's degree in rehabilitation counseling or a profession closely linked to it. In addition to this, the majority of states require rehabilitation counselors to first get a license prior to beginning employment in the field.
The ability to speak clearly and concisely with clients is an essential skill for rehabilitation counselors. In addition to that, they need to be capable of working alone and have excellent organizational abilities.
A person who works in the health care field as an occupational therapy assistant assists patients in regaining the capacity to conduct activities of daily living and improving their overall quality of life. It's possible that they'll be in charge of a wide range of responsibilities, such as the implementation of treatment plans, the delivery of therapeutic services, and the completion of administrative responsibilities, among other things, which makes this one of the best trade school jobs in the list.
The majority of persons who work in occupational therapy have an associate's degree in occupational therapy or a degree in an area that is very closely linked to occupational therapy. On the other hand, certain firms may offer people who have finished a bachelor's degree program priority for available positions. In addition to this, the practice of occupational therapy requires a license, which must first be obtained before a person may legally begin working in the field.
It is essential for occupational therapists to have strong communication skills in order to provide quality care to their patients. In addition to this, they need to have technical skills and in-depth knowledge of the human body and the processes that it goes through. In addition to that, they have to be sensitive and great at finding solutions to problems.
The coordination and control of the warehousing and transportation of commodities is within the purview of a logistics manager. This could involve the administration of distribution operations, inventory control, and storage facilities. In addition to this, it is possible that they will also be accountable for the creation as well as the execution of logistical strategies.
The majority of persons who work in logistics management have a bachelor's degree in business administration or in an area that is very closely linked to business administration. On the other hand, certain companies may grant people who have finished a master's degree program advantage over other applicants.
It is essential for those in charge of logistics to have the ability to communicate clearly and effectively with their staff. In addition to this, they need to be able to operate well under pressure and have strong problem-solving abilities. In addition to that, they need to have excellent organizing skills and a keen eye for details.
A person who plans events is called an event planner, and it is their job to organize and oversee the coordination of events. This may include weddings, business activities, parties, and several other types of social gatherings. In addition to this, they could also be accountable for managing the event workforce as well as the budget.
The majority of individuals who are employed in event planning have a bachelor's degree, either in event management or in an area that is very closely linked to it. On the other hand, certain companies may grant people who have finished a master's degree program an advantage over other applicants.
It is essential for those who arrange events to be able to communicate clearly and concisely with the people they serve. In addition to this, they need to be able to operate well under pressure and have strong problem-solving abilities. In addition to that, they need to have excellent organizing skills and a keen eye for details.
A fashion designer is a person who is in charge of creating new clothes and other fashion accessories. This might refer to either the clothing worn by men or women. In addition to this, they could also be in charge of the administration of a team that is responsible for fashion design.
A bachelor's degree in fashion design or a degree in an area that is very closely related is often required for employment in the fashion design industry. On the other hand, certain companies may grant people who have finished a master's degree program an advantage over other applicants.
It is essential for a fashion designer to have a strong creative sense in addition to exceptional talents in sewing and patternmaking. In addition to this, they are required to have an in-depth knowledge of the fashion sector. In addition to that, they need to have excellent organizing skills and a keen eye for details.
If you are looking for a trade school job that requires an immense depth of creativity, then a graphic designer position might be for you.
Graphic designers are the individuals who are in charge of the production of many forms of visual communication products. Logos, graphics, ads, and even the design of websites might fall under this category. In addition to this, they could also be accountable for the administration of a group that focuses on visual design.
The majority of individuals who work in graphic design have at least a bachelor's degree, either in graphic design or in an area that is very closely linked to graphic design. On the other hand, certain companies may grant people who have finished a master's degree program an advantage over other applicants.
In order to succeed in the field of graphic design, one must possess both creative ability and superior computer abilities. In addition to this, they are required to have an in-depth knowledge of the graphic design sector. In addition to that, they need to have excellent organizing skills and a keen eye for details.
Those are just a few of the career opportunities that one can achieve without attending the traditional four-year university. Many of these programs can be completed in as little as a year or two, and they offer you the chance to start working and earning sooner than many four-year college degree programs.
Pinnacle Career Institute (PCI) can help you enter the workforce quickly and efficiently. We have a wide range of programs that will fit your needs, from trade and technical school jobs to those in the medical field. And, our graduates are in high demand – meaning you can earn a good salary right out of school!
If you are interested in learning more about our programs or taking the first step towards a new career, contact us today!