Welcome to the Blog
Tips & Tricks to entering the trades
Now is a great time to start a career as a skilled tradesperson. Nearly all trades are currently facing a shortage of skilled labor, which has resulted in fierce competition for capable workers. Although some young professionals have been hesitant to pursue “blue collar work” in recent years, securing a job as a skilled tradesperson today means embarking on a lucrative, respectable, and increasingly sophisticated career.
We believe that understanding what to expect and how to prepare will help you succeed in a skilled trade, regardless of your area of specialization. Here are some valuable tips and tricks to consider before embarking on your new career journey.
Technical institutions are all about hands-on skills and know-how for specific trades. They focus on what you need to get right into the workforce. On the other hand, colleges and universities dive deeper into the theory, which is great if you’re looking to get into fields like engineering, architectural planning, or construction management. If you’re not set on those specialized roles or a management position that needs some business chops, a vocational program is usually a solid choice to kick off your career.
But that’s not the only route! You could also consider military technical training, adult education programs run by the government, or even some four-year colleges that offer relevant courses. So, whether you’re looking to get hands-on training or a more academic approach, there are plenty of options out there to kick off your career in the trades!
When you’re thinking about a career or maybe switching things up, there’s a lot to consider. You’ve got to think about what you enjoy, what you’re good at, and the nitty-gritty details like hours, pay, working conditions, and benefits. It’s definitely worth taking some time to check out different industries and career paths, especially the cool stuff that comes with working in various trades!
If you’re feeling a bit lost about whether a trade career is the right move or which trade might be your jam, there are some fun assessments out there that can help. They’ll guide you in figuring out what matters most to you in a job and help you discover a trade that fits your interests. So go ahead, dive in, and see what sparks your passion!
The skilled trades are a fascinating world of jobs that require specific skills and a lot of hands-on work, which is pretty different from the usual 9-to-5 office grind. There’s a whole bunch of professions that fall under this category, so it’s definitely worth diving in and checking it out. Take some time to explore the different sectors within the trades—there’s everything from plumbing and electrical work to carpentry and welding. Each has its own unique opportunities, and you might be surprised at what’s out there. Plus, thinking about a future in the skilled trades could open up some exciting paths for you. Who knows? You might find a passion for a trade that you never considered before!
To kick off your research here are the categories of skilled trade jobs include:
- Agriculture technology: Pest control, agricultural operator, greenhouse manager.
- Construction: plumber, electrician, painter.
- Transportation: bike mechanic, subway operator, automotive mechanic.
- Service: hairdresser, chef, manicurist.
- Manufacturing: welder, machinist, tool maker.
Remember, exploring new opportunities is a journey that can lead to personal growth and satisfaction. It’s not just about finding a job, but about finding a role that resonates with who you are and what you want to achieve in life. Consider reaching out to professionals in fields you’re curious about for informational interviews. This can provide firsthand insights into different trades and help paint a clearer picture of what daily life in those careers might look like.on costs, that four-year degree increasingly feels like a risky investment rather than a guaranteed opportunity. In contrast, attending a trade school for a manufacturing career allows you to land an entry-level position without the heavy debt, plus you can start saving for retirement much earlier! There are numerous pathways into manufacturing, including apprenticeships and on-the-job training, all of which can pave the way for a successful career in half the time and with half the debt compared to a traditional university
Choosing a career path is a big step, and it’s great that you’re thinking about the resources you’ll need! Investing in a good laptop and the right tools can really set you up for success. It might feel a bit overwhelming with rising costs, but don’t forget to look for benefits, grants, or awards that can help lighten the financial load. Plus, if you’re considering skilled trades, you’ll be happy to know that many of these positions offer solid salaries, which means you’ll be able to pay off your investments in no time. You’ve got this!
Choosing a career path is a big step, and it’s great that you’re thinking about the resources you’ll need! Investing in a good laptop and the right tools can really set you up for success. It might feel a bit overwhelming with rising costs, but don’t forget to look for benefits, grants, or awards that can help lighten the financial load. Plus, if you’re considering skilled trades, you’ll be happy to know that many of these positions offer solid salaries, which means you’ll be able to pay off your investments in no time. You’ve got this! the skilled trades industry is that there are so many different job positions and opportunities. Just because
Most importantly: don't give up!
Starting out in a trade can feel a bit like being stuck in the “grunt work” phase, where you’re doing a lot of basic tasks just to familiarize yourself with the industry. It might seem boring or frustrating, especially when you’re not seeing big bucks right away. But trust us, this is all part of the process!
Once you get through this initial phase, you’ll find that the skills you’re building are super valuable, and there’s a ton of demand for them. So, take the time to really learn the ropes. Do your research, set clear goals, and dive into your trade with enthusiasm. Staying committed and determined will pay off big time down the road! Your hard work now is laying the foundation for a rewarding career ahead. Keep pushing through, and you’ll be glad you did!
Sources:
Duffy, Stephanie. “Five Tips for Starting Your Career as a Skilled Tradesperson: Nvent.” nVent Blog, nVent, 28 May 2019, blog.nvent.com/five-tips-for-starting-your-career-as-a-skilled-tradesperson 2/#:~:text=Be%20a%20problem%2Dsolver%2C%20never,to%20work%20effectively%20with%20customers.
Studios, Arsenal, and Zander Buel. “5 Tips for a Successful Career Change into a Skilled Trade.” Tulsa Welding School, 18 June 2019, www.tws.edu/blog/skilled-trades/5-tips-for-a-successful-career-change-into-a-skilled-trade/.
“Want to Get into the Skilled Trades? Here’s Some Advice.” Make It Right®, 21 June 2024, makeitright.ca/holmes-advice/mike-skilled-trades/want-to-get-into-the-skilled-trades-heres-some-advice/.
Infographics, eLearning. “Choosing the Right School for Your Career Path Infographic – e-Learning Infographics.” E, 5 May 2016, elearninginfographics.com/choosing-the-right-school/.
Martensen, Lisa. “Skills Trade Gap: How to Attract in-Demand Skilled Trades.” Skills Trade Gap: How to Attract In-Demand Skilled Trades, Milwaukee Tool, 14 Sept. 2022, onekeyresources.milwaukeetool.com/en/tips-for-attracting-skilled-trades-in-demand.
