The skilled trades are an important part of our everyday lives. These tradesmen are responsible for the construction, maintenance, and repair of our homes, businesses and important infrastructure. Therefore, if you’re considering a career change or just curious about the different skilled trades careers, this blog post will help to guide you through the basics and hopefully answer some of your questions about what is a skilled trade and the different skilled trades jobs in demand today. Also, we will explore what the skilled trades are, ways to help you determine if a trades job is the right fit for you and some of the steps that you can take to get started in an interesting and rewarding skilled trades career.
What are the skilled trades?
When considering a career in the trades, many people may ask what are the skilled trades? The skilled trades are often referred to as hands on or technical careers that encompass a wide range of professions requiring specialized skills and experience. Furthermore, these professions are essential in keeping our society functioning and operating smoothly. Here are some common examples of skilled trades jobs that we are all familiar with: Carpenters, Electricians, Plumbers and HVAC Technicians. These trades jobs are just a few examples of the skilled trades, but there are many more specialized skilled trade occupations. Skilled tradesmen are essential for the construction of homes, buildings, maintaining infrastructure, and ensuring that the systems we rely on every day operate and function properly. To learn more about individual skilled trades jobs in demand today view our list of skilled trades jobs.
How to determine if the skilled trades is right for me?
Not everyone is cut out for a career in the skilled trades, however, if you have certain qualities and interests, the skilled trades can be an excellent career choice. Here’s some considerations to help you determine if skilled trades are right for you.
You have an interest in hands on work: If you enjoy working with your hands, solving problems, and seeing completed results, the skilled trades may be an interesting and rewarding career choice.
You like to troubleshoot and solve problems: The skilled trades often involve troubleshooting and finding solutions to complex problems. For this reason, problem solving skills are very valuable in the trades.
An interest in technical skills and learning new skills: If you’re interested in learning how things work and have an aptitude for technical knowledge and learning new skills, you may find the skilled trades interesting and challenging.
Interest in an apprenticeship instead of college: Many trades require apprenticeships or some kind of formal training. Joining an apprenticeship is a great way to begin a skilled trades career. Apprenticeships provides on-the-job training from an experienced tradesmen, training in a classroom and you get paid throughout the apprenticeship program. For more information on apprenticeship programs take a look at our apprenticeship guide.
Steps to take to get into the Skilled Trades
So if you’ve decided that a skilled trades career may be the right career path for you, here are some steps that you can take to help you get started.
Research the various skilled trade occupations: Take a look at our list of skilled trades jobs that are in demand today and select one that aligns with your interests and career goals.
Complete education and training: Complete high school and enroll in a trade school, vocational program or community college to gain the necessary training and skills for your trade of interest.
Consider joining an apprenticeship: Consider joining an apprenticeship to gain classroom training and practical field experience. Find an apprenticeship program through a local trade union.
It’s a great time to begin a trades career and Go Skilled Trades!
The Skilled trades can offer an interesting and rewarding career path for those with the right skills and interests. Whether you’re interested in electrical work, plumbing, carpentry, HVAC, or any other trade, taking the time to explore the various skilled trades jobs that are in demand today and learning about the different ways to obtain training will set you on the path to success in a new skilled trades career. Today is a great time to Go Skilled Trades and begin a new, interesting and challenging skilled trades job! Visit our website www.GoSkilledTrades.com to learn more about the skilled trades.
