Interested in learning a skilled trade? It is a smart move with multiple benefits. Here are five of the most significant benefits:
1. Affordability
Working in a skilled trade is much more affordable than getting a four-year college degree. The average cost of a four-year college degree is now $127,000. The average cost of learning a skilled trade, on the other hand, is just $33,000.
While you may need some training to work in the trades, many companies hire people with no or little experience as apprentices. You may also be able to pick up any training you need in specific, individual courses, which cost less than a degree program.
2. Job Availability
There are many jobs available in the skilled trades, for several reasons. First, baby boomers are retiring every day, and companies need replacements. Second, jobs in construction and related fields such as bricklayers and electricians need to be performed by someone local to the construction being done. Those jobs will not be sent to another country. Surveys show that demand will be robust every year for skilled trades jobs.
3. Daily Practice of Skills
In many jobs which require a four-year degree, people spend most days not doing anything related to their skills. But in skilled trades, people by definition do their jobs every day. A carpenter builds, a construction worker builds homes, offices and more as part of a team, and so on. The opportunity to practice your skills daily is a huge benefit, because people who practice daily get really good at their jobs.
4. Flexibility
While people in white-collar jobs are increasingly at the beck and call of computers and mobile phones 24/7, skilled tradespeople are not. The job ends at the end of the day.
Plus, there are many opportunities to become your own boss if you have an interest in doing so. Skilled tradespeople can become contractors as they become more experienced and know the market
5. Career Growth
You can begin as an apprentice and grow into mastery status. You can get additional training in rapidly growing fields such as solar power. You can become certified by taking industry- or company-specific training. In addition, crews need foremen, so there are always opportunities to be promoted to management status.
Work With a Staffing Agency That Works for You
Interested in working in the skilled trades? We can help. Contact Nesco Resource today.
