Are you seeking a hands-on career path that leads to quick entry into the workforce? Career Trade Programs, also known as vocational programs, offer a direct route to developing specialized skills for in-demand professions. For individuals eager to gain technical expertise and begin their careers swiftly, exploring the best jobs for trade school graduates is a smart move.
Discovering the Right Trade Program for Your Career Goals
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- Leading trade jobs span across various sectors, including healthcare, technology, and skilled trades.
- Career trade programs are specifically designed to impart the technical expertise necessary for particular occupations.
- The duration of vocational programs typically ranges from a few weeks to two years, offering flexibility and speed.
- Trade schools often prioritize focused training, reducing the need for extensive general education coursework.
For many individuals, particularly after high school, career trade programs present a more accessible and efficient pathway to starting a career and achieving professional growth compared to the traditional four-year university route. These institutions, also known as technical or vocational schools, emphasize specialized job training in sectors with robust job markets, thereby equipping students for successful employment.
This guide will explore some of the most promising trade jobs, providing detailed insights into the requirements, potential earnings, typical responsibilities, and projected job growth for each profession. We aim to give you a comprehensive overview of the best career trade program options available.
Understanding the Distinction: Trade School Versus Four-Year College
What are the fundamental differences between a trade school and a traditional four-year college? Understanding these distinctions is crucial when considering your post-secondary education options.
Unlike a traditional four-year university that offers a broad-based education rooted in liberal arts and humanities, a career trade program focuses intensely on providing students with the specific technical knowledge and practical skills required for a particular job. For example, programs might specialize in fields like automotive technology, welding, or electrical systems repair.
Trade schools can be public or private institutions, and it’s important to note that some operate as for-profit entities. When researching potential schools, always verify their accreditation status to ensure the quality and recognition of the program before applying. Accreditation ensures that the institution meets certain standards of educational quality.
Vocational program durations vary, typically from eight weeks to two years, depending on the type of credential you seek – whether it’s a certificate, diploma, or associate degree. Upon graduation, individuals may proceed to licensing exams, apprenticeships, or directly enter the workforce.
Considering Alternatives: Online Bootcamps for Skill Development
[bootcamp-widget] If a traditional trade school isn’t the right fit, online bootcamps can offer another avenue for acquiring job-ready skills in a shorter timeframe. Vocational programs generally range from a few weeks to two years depending on the desired qualification.
Popular career paths accessible through trade programs include becoming a plumber, electrician, pharmacy technician, or paralegal. Culinary arts programs can pave the way to careers as restaurant cooks or private chefs. For those interested in the automotive industry, programs in automotive technology, service management, or collision repair can lead to fulfilling careers as auto mechanics.
While community colleges also offer technical programs, they often incorporate general education requirements that might be necessary for students planning to transfer to a four-year college. In contrast, trade schools typically focus solely on coursework directly related to the chosen occupation. This focused approach is particularly beneficial for individuals with clear and defined career objectives.
Top 15 Career Trade Programs and Salary Expectations
Let’s delve into 15 of the most rewarding career trade programs that lead to well-paying jobs. The salary figures presented below offer a clear picture of the potential earnings in these professions. Remember that actual salaries can fluctuate based on factors such as geographic location, employer, and individual qualifications and experience.
Job security, which is a significant factor for long-term career stability, is also considered. For each career, we’ll include insights into projected job growth based on data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), providing a forward-looking perspective on career opportunities.
| TRADE JOB | MEDIAN SALARY (2023) | PROJECTED JOB GROWTH RATE (2023-2033) |
|---|---|---|
| Elevator Installer and Repairer | $102,420 | 6% |
| Radiation Therapist | $98,300 | 3% |
| Web Developer | $92,750 | 8% |
| Dental Hygienist | $87,530 | 9% |
| Diagnostic Medical Sonographer | $80,850 | 11% |
| Electrical Line Worker | $85,420 | 8% |
| Respiratory Therapist | $77,960 | 13% |
| Electrician | $61,590 | 11% |
| Plumber | $61,550 | 6% |
| Mortician | $60,580 | 4% |
| IT Technician | $60,810 | 6% |
| Wind Turbine Technician | $61,770 | 60% |
| Legal Assistant | $60,970 | 1% |
| HVACR Technician | $57,300 | 9% |
| Licensed Practical Nurse | $59,730 | 3% |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics
Elevator Installer and Repairer
These skilled professionals are responsible for the installation, maintenance, and repair of elevators, escalators, moving walkways, and similar vertical transportation systems. They interpret blueprints to determine the type of equipment needed and manage the installation process, ensuring each system is tested for optimal performance and safety.
Regular maintenance and troubleshooting are crucial aspects of their job to comply with building regulations and safety standards. Elevator mechanics often work as contractors for specialized equipment companies.
+6% Projected employment growth 2023-2033
$102,420 Median salary 2023
Alt text: Elevator mechanic inspecting machinery in an elevator shaft, showcasing career trade program in elevator maintenance.
Becoming an elevator installer and repairer typically involves a comprehensive four-year apprenticeship program, combining on-the-job training with technical classroom instruction. This ensures a high level of skill and expertise in this specialized trade.
Radiation Therapist
Radiation therapists are vital healthcare professionals who work alongside nurses, physicians, and oncologists to administer radiation therapy for patients with conditions like cancer. They operate sophisticated equipment, such as linear accelerators, to target and eliminate cancerous cells, while meticulously monitoring patients during treatments for any adverse reactions. Strict adherence to safety protocols is paramount in this role.
+3% Projected employment growth 2023-2033
$98,300 Median salary 2023
Alt text: Radiation therapist positioning a patient for therapy, illustrating a healthcare career trade program.
Radiation therapy is among the highest-paying healthcare trade professions. A majority of radiation therapists are employed by hospitals, with others working in doctors’ offices and outpatient centers. A minimum of an associate degree from an institution accredited by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists is required, and most states also mandate licensure.
Web Developer
Web developers are essential in today’s digital world, responsible for creating and maintaining websites. They design the visual layout and user experience of websites, and may also handle the technical back-end aspects, such as site performance and traffic management. Their roles can extend to webmaster duties, including content updates, usability monitoring, and troubleshooting technical issues.
+8% Projected employment growth 2023-2033
$92,750 Median salary 2023
Alt text: Web developer coding on multiple screens, representing a technology career trade program.
Opportunities for higher salaries in web development often arise in software publishing and companies managing private electronic networks. While some web developers are self-taught, many pursue formal education through associate degrees in web development, covering both programming and graphic design. Advanced roles in areas like full-stack development or management typically require a bachelor’s or even a graduate degree in web development.
Dental Hygienist
Dental hygienists play a critical role in promoting oral health by providing preventative dental care and educating patients on hygiene practices. They use specialized tools to remove plaque and tartar and identify signs of oral diseases. In some regions, with further training, they can become dental therapists, performing procedures like tooth extractions and crown placements.
+9% Projected employment growth 2023-2033
$87,530 Median salary 2023
Alt text: Dental hygienist cleaning a patient’s teeth, illustrating a dental healthcare career trade program.
To become a dental hygienist, a three-year associate degree program accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation is generally required, along with state licensure from a board of dental examiners. This career path combines healthcare service with patient education.
Diagnostic Medical Sonographer
Diagnostic medical sonographers are essential members of healthcare teams, assisting physicians and surgeons in diagnosing medical conditions using ultrasound technology. They operate imaging equipment to produce sonograms, helping to detect abnormalities within the body. Sonographers may specialize in areas such as cardiac, vascular, or obstetric sonography, focusing on specific body regions.
+11% Projected employment growth 2023-2033
$80,850 Median salary 2023
Alt text: Diagnostic medical sonographer conducting an ultrasound scan, representing a medical imaging career trade program.
Working in outpatient care centers can increase earning potential for sonographers, potentially reaching around $100,000 annually. The educational path typically involves a technical certificate or an associate degree in sonography from an accredited institution, such as one recognized by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs.
Electrical Line Worker
Electrical line workers, also known as line installers and repairers, are crucial for maintaining and expanding electrical grids and telecommunications infrastructure. They install and repair power lines, telecommunication cables, and fiber optics, ensuring reliable service delivery. Inspections and testing are also part of their duties to maintain system integrity.
+8% Projected employment growth 2023-2033
$85,420 Median salary 2023
Alt text: Electrical line workers on utility poles repairing power lines, highlighting a skilled trades career program.
A high school diploma or GED is the minimum educational requirement, and line workers typically undergo apprenticeships or specialized training programs to gain the necessary skills for this physically demanding and safety-critical profession.
Respiratory Therapist
Respiratory therapists are healthcare professionals specializing in assisting patients with breathing difficulties and cardiopulmonary disorders. They assess patients’ respiratory function, conduct diagnostic tests, and collaborate with physicians to develop and implement treatment plans. Treatments may include administering aerosol medications and performing chest physiotherapy.
+13% Projected employment growth 2023-2033
$77,960 Median salary 2023
Alt text: Respiratory therapist monitoring a patient’s breathing with medical equipment, showing a respiratory care career trade program.
Hospitals are the primary employers for respiratory therapists. To enter this field, an associate degree from a program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care is commonly required. A bachelor’s degree in respiratory therapy is also an option for those seeking more advanced career opportunities.
Electrician
Electricians are skilled tradespeople who install and maintain electrical systems in buildings and infrastructure. They work with blueprints to plan and install wiring, lighting, and control systems. Troubleshooting and repairing electrical faults in existing systems are also key aspects of their job, ensuring safety and functionality.
+11% Projected employment growth 2023-2033
$61,590 Median salary 2023
Alt text: Electrician installing electrical wiring, representing an electrical trades career program.
Experienced electricians, particularly those self-employed or specializing in residential installations, can earn significantly more. The path to becoming an electrician typically involves a 4-5 year paid apprenticeship, culminating in journeyman status and eligibility for state licensure.
Plumber
Plumbers are essential for installing and maintaining water and gas piping systems in residential, commercial, and industrial settings. Their work ranges from installing fixtures and repairing leaks in homes to managing complex plumbing systems in large buildings. Adherence to building codes and safety standards is crucial in all plumbing work.
+6% Projected employment growth 2023-2033
$61,550 Median salary 2023
Alt text: Plumber repairing pipes under a kitchen sink, showcasing a plumbing career trade program.
Apprenticeships, lasting 4-5 years, are the standard route to becoming a plumber. Many plumbers also obtain certificates or associate degrees to enhance their skills and knowledge. State licensure is generally required for plumbers to work independently.
Mortician
Morticians, also known as funeral directors or funeral service workers, provide essential services in managing funeral arrangements and caring for the deceased. This role requires a high degree of professionalism, empathy, and organizational skills. Responsibilities include coordinating funeral services, working with bereaved families, and handling administrative and logistical tasks. Some morticians also perform embalming and cosmetic preparation of the deceased.
+4% Projected employment growth 2023-2033
$60,580 Median salary 2023
Alt text: Mortician in a suit in a funeral home office, representing a funeral service career trade program.
An associate degree is typically required to become a mortician, and individuals must be at least 21 years old. This career path is for those who are compassionate and detail-oriented, capable of handling sensitive situations with dignity.
IT Technician
IT technicians, or computer support specialists, are vital for maintaining the technology infrastructure of organizations. They install, maintain, and troubleshoot computer networks, hardware, and software. Cybersecurity is increasingly important, with IT technicians often involved in protecting systems from threats and recovering data. They also provide user support, assisting with software and hardware issues.
+6% Projected employment growth 2023-2033
$60,810 Median salary 2023
Alt text: IT technician assisting a user with computer issues, illustrating an information technology career trade program.
Telecommunications companies often offer higher salaries for IT technicians. Entry into this field can be through an IT certificate, associate degree in IT, or professional training programs like those offered by Google and CompTIA, providing various pathways into this tech-driven career.
Wind Turbine Technician
Wind turbine technicians, or wind techs, are at the forefront of renewable energy, responsible for the operation and maintenance of wind turbines. They diagnose and repair mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic issues in turbine components, often working at height and in challenging conditions. Their work is critical for the efficient generation of wind energy.
+60% Projected employment growth 2023-2033
$61,770 Median salary 2023
Alt text: Wind turbine technicians climbing a wind turbine, representing a renewable energy career trade program.
Wind turbine technician is one of the fastest-growing green jobs, driven by the expansion of renewable energy. A certificate or associate degree in wind technology is typically required, and many employers also mandate on-the-job training, reflecting the specialized skills needed in this sector.
Legal Assistant
Legal assistants and paralegals provide crucial support to lawyers in legal offices and firms. They handle administrative tasks, prepare legal documents, conduct legal research, and manage case files. Their organizational and research skills are essential for the smooth operation of legal practices.
+1% Projected employment growth 2023-2033
$60,970 Median salary 2023
Alt text: Legal assistant organizing legal documents in an office, showcasing a legal support career trade program.
While an associate degree is common, many employers prefer legal assistants with a bachelor’s degree in paralegal studies and certification from programs approved by the American Bar Association, enhancing their credibility and career prospects.
HVACR Technician
HVACR (Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration) technicians are responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing climate control systems in buildings. They ensure that heating, cooling, and ventilation systems are efficient and compliant with regulations. Specializations within HVACR, such as in commercial refrigeration or solar heating, can offer further career development.
+9% Projected employment growth 2023-2033
$57,300 Median salary 2023
Alt text: HVACR technician repairing an air conditioning system, representing an HVAC trades career program.
Certificate programs (around six months) or associate degrees (two years) are common educational paths for HVACR technicians. Apprenticeships are also a valuable route to gain practical experience and qualify for state licensure in this essential trade.
Licensed Practical Nurse
Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs), also known as Licensed Vocational Nurses in some states, provide essential patient care under the direction of registered nurses and physicians. Their duties include monitoring patient vital signs, assisting with basic medical procedures, and ensuring patient comfort. Experienced LPNs may take on supervisory roles, guiding newer staff.
+3% Projected employment growth 2023-2033
$59,730 Median salary 2023
Alt text: Licensed practical nurse checking on a patient in a hospital bed, illustrating a nursing career trade program.
LPN programs are typically one-year certificate or diploma programs. Graduation is followed by the NCLEX-PN examination for state licensure, allowing LPNs to begin their nursing careers in various healthcare settings.
Frequently Asked Questions About Career Trade Programs
What is the typical duration of career trade programs?
Career trade programs are known for their efficiency, often completed in a year or less, significantly shorter than a four-year degree. Vocational certificates or associate degrees may extend up to two years, still providing a quicker route to employment compared to traditional college paths.
The focused curriculum in trade schools, which omits general education courses and concentrates on hands-on, job-specific training, allows for this accelerated learning pace. This direct approach ensures students gain relevant skills quickly and efficiently.
Are online career trade programs a viable option?
The availability of fully online career trade programs depends largely on the specific field. Many skilled trades necessitate hands-on training that is difficult to replicate in a purely online environment.
While theoretical components of vocational training can be delivered online, practical, technical skills often require in-person instruction and practice. Programs in fields like electrician work, plumbing, and nursing typically incorporate significant hands-on components and may require in-person labs or clinical practice. Many programs also include internships or apprenticeships to provide real-world experience before certification.
Which career trade programs lead to the highest earnings?
Elevator installation and repair currently tops the list of highest-paying trade jobs, with a median annual salary around $100,000 as of May 2023, according to BLS data. Healthcare-related trade jobs, such as radiation therapists and dental hygienists, also offer high earning potential, with median annual salaries exceeding $87,000.
It’s important to consider that earning potential can vary based on experience, location, specialization, and licensure. Continuous professional development and specialization can further enhance earning prospects in any trade.
What are the distinctions between trade schools and technical schools in career training?
While often used interchangeably, “trade school” and “technical school” can have subtle differences, particularly in their educational approach and career focus.
Technical schools might offer a blend of hands-on training with some theoretical or academic coursework, potentially catering to students who may consider further higher education in the future. The curriculum might include more foundational science or math related to the technology being studied.
Trade schools, conversely, typically prioritize immediate job readiness through intensive hands-on training, often focusing on practical skills directly applicable to specific trades, with less emphasis on classroom-based theory.
Choosing between a trade school and a technical school should involve considering factors like program cost, duration, the balance of theory and practice, and the specific career goals of the student.
Feature Image: Tom Werner / DigitalVision / Getty Images
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