Did you recently complete high school and wondering what to do next? Or perhaps you’re pondering a career switch.
Getting a college education is the first thing that comes to mind in such a situation, but consider going to a vocational or trade school. While they might not be as alluring as universities and professional colleges, vocational schools are becoming popular – and with good reason.
In this article, we’re diving into the benefits of vocational education. Read on to learn why getting vocational training could be a smart decision.
1. A Growing Demand for Skilled Trades
Nobody thought that a day would come when the demand for skilled tradespeople would outstrip the demand for jobs that require a college degree, but the labor market is shifting in many countries.
As AI replaces millions of jobs, it’s worthwhile to note that it cannot replace jobs like plumbing, electrical work, and construction.
Whether you want to become a mechanic or an electrician, there’s no doubt that you’ll have plenty of jobs to choose from. And to add a cherry to the cake, salaries for tradespeople are growing as their demand rises.
If you’re already a skilled tradesperson but would like to explore another career path, how about becoming a trainer? You just need to complete a TAE online course and you’ll be ready to get started.
2. Low-Cost Occupational Training
The cost of getting a college degree is staggering. In the U.S., for instance, students are graduating with about $30,000 in debt.
Yes, professional training is crucial, but in a challenging economy, nobody needs to pay an arm and a leg for college. Thankfully, vocational schools only cost a fraction of what you’d pay at a university.
With vocational training being more affordable, you might not need to rely on lender financing. But if you do, you’ll still have access to education credit facilities.
3. Short Programs
A bachelor’s degree requires at least four years of your time. For professions like medicine and law, you will spend almost a decade getting the necessary training.
There’s nothing wrong with that, but if spending years in college isn’t your kind of thing, you can get technical education in a year or less. A plumbing apprenticeship, for example, takes between 9 and 18 months, depending on the school.
The short nature of these programs makes it easier for people to pursue multiple programs. Being multi-skilled increases your career flexibility and can make you more attractive to employers.
4. Start Your Own Business
One of the best things about being a tradesman is you don’t have to look for a job. You can move into self-employment right away.
If you’re a plumber, you just need adequate startup capital and business acumen to run a plumbing company. In no time, you’ll be creating job opportunities for other plumbers and living your dream as a boss.
Reap the Benefits of Vocational Education
The benefits of vocational education might not outweigh the benefits of getting a college degree, but they’re certainly attractive enough to catch your attention. Find a program that suits your needs, choose a school, and start your journey to a fruitful career in the trades.
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