Around 69% of students who complete high school go to college in the fall. What if you’re among the 31% who didn’t make it this time?
You have many other options. For instance, have you considered going to trade school?
After all, the world needs tradespeople even more than it needs university graduates. Check out these trade school ideas that could lead to a rewarding career.
1. Elevator Installer and Repairer
This is one of the most lucrative trade school career ideas, with a net income of over $88,000 per year and a 7% job growth rate.
Elevator technicians help assemble, repair, and maintain escalators, chairlifts, moving walkways, and any other kind of lift you can think of. They can advise building owners on the best fit for their buildings by reading the blueprints.
These technical specialists usually work as contractors for private equipment companies. You can become an elevator repairman by completing a 4-year apprenticeship in conjunction with attending trade school.
2. Dental Hygienist
Most dental hygienists achieve their 3-year associate degree in dental hygiene at trade schools. Once qualified and licensed, the job entails working as a dentist’s right hand, performing important accessory tasks.
These include checking for disease, taking x-rays, cleaning teeth, and educating patients on dental hygiene. Office management and documentation tasks are also part of the job.
Dental hygienists earn around $74,000 per year and this job market’s growing by 10% every year.
If you enjoy working with people, this is a good career path for you.
3. Metal Working Trade School Ideas
Metalworkers are in high demand for jobs in various fields. They work to create useful objects out of metal, ranging from enormous ships and bridges to delicate engine parts and jewelry.
You’ll need to choose a trade school that specializes in the type of metalworking you’re interested in. For instance, Montana Tech offers a wide range of courses from sheet metal work to precision metalworking.
Graduates of the American Gunsmithing Institute can build firearms from scratch, customize existing ones, or conduct expert repairs when needed. They’re often hired by high-paying collectors to ensure their precious firearms receive the best care possible.
If you’re handy with tools and have a creative flair, metalworking is a good option for you.
4. Plumbing
Plumbing is an essential and popular trade that presents boundless business opportunities once you’ve earned some experience.
Plumbers don’t only spend their time unblocking drains and toilets, they can also install, maintain, and replace gas and water lines and plumbing fixtures.
When you work as a plumber, you’ll need to deal with unpredictable hours, but you’ll also enjoy a high income, flexible hours, and stability.
5. Electrician
Electricians are a vital part of the home improvement and construction industry. They plan, install, and inspect electrical systems, and ensure wiring and fuse boxes operate at an optimum.
You’ll learn the basics at trade school, before going on to complete a four or five-year paid apprenticeship. Once you’re qualified and licensed, you can become an independent contractor and start your own electrical business.
Find Your Niche in Life
We hope these trade school ideas have filled you with hope for a promising future without the burden of excessive college debt. Trade schools offer a huge variety of interesting career options, and they offer much cheaper access to tertiary education.
So, before you sign up for the first dead-end job that comes along, look at what some of the trade schools in your area have to offer.
Are you curious about more career options? Explore our website for some extra tips.
