Finding careers in the trades

Are you in search of a hands-on job where you can use practical skills to make physical things? A career in skilled trades might be right for you. But what are skilled trades? These are jobs that require a specialized skill, typically acquired through a technical or trade school, an apprenticeship, or a combination of these.

You can find skilled trades in various industries. Some professions have a high demand due to the special knowledge required to perform these roles, making them good career choices if job security is important for you. Some examples of skilled trades jobs in demand over the next few years are:

■ wind turbine techni- cians (estimated to grow at a rate of 68%)

■ sol a r photovolt a ic installers (estimated to grow at a rate of 52%)

■ industrial machinery mechanics (estimated to grow at a rate of 19%)

Skilled trades offer solid and predictable careers for those who want consistency in their workdays and careers. If you know you want to stay in the same field for a long time, a job in skilled trades may fit you well. At the same time, many of these jobs allow you to have exciting experiences you would not be able to otherwise, such as reaching the top of a wind turbine or seeing the

inside of a jet engine.

What are skilled trades?

Whatare skilled trades jobs exactly and what industries can you find them in? Defini- tions of exactly which jobs are considered skilled trades vary, but they are usually hands-on jobs. Most people think of industrial skilled trades when they heard the term, but in fact there are several other categories that are considered part of skilled trades as well.

Check out this list of skilled trades:

■ Agriculture technol

ogy: Pest control, agricul- tural operator, greenhouse manager.

■ Construction: plumber, electrician, painter.

■ Transportation: bike mechanic, subway operator, automotive mechanic.

■ Service: hairdresser, chef, manicurist.

■ Manufacturing: welder, machinist, tool maker.

Pay for skilled trades

Pay vary greatly for different skilled trades. Jobs with the highest need for workers, the most specialized skills, and the longest educational paths typically

pay better. These are some examples of the highest-paying skilled trades:

■ Model maker, wood: $60,780

■ Aircraft eq u ipment mechanic: $65,550

■ Elevator installer: $97,860

What are skilled trades programs?

To work in skilled trades, you need an education from a skilled trade school or tech- nical school. Obtaining a degree or diploma typically takes 1-2 years, but some can take up to 4 years.

Many jobs require a

license or certificate. The specific requirements can vary from state to state. Sometimes you may be able to acquire the license or cer- tificate through your educational program. In other circumstances, you need to complete an apprenticeship, internship, or work under supervision after you graduate to acquire a license. Many apprenticeships pay a salary, so you can often earn money while you train for your profession as well. Continuing education is some- times required for you to keep your license active or renew it, for example if you work as an electrician or elevator mechanic.

How to get into skilled trades

For a successful career in skilled trades, you need the right combination of education and experience. Choosing a reputable school that is licensed or certified from a well-known organization (when applicable), or the state, when required, is a good start.

Consider completing an internship or apprenticeship, even when it is not required, as this will help you further develop your skills and advance in your chosen field.

The next step is to find your first job. Skilled trade staffing agencies can help to connect you with employers who are searching for candidates. Career fairs enable you to network with employers, while seminars and workshops can also give you additional skills that employers value. For example, women in skilled trades can get advice and connectionsfrom national and local tradeswomen organizations, such as the Women in Non-Traditional Employment Roles (WINTER).

For the best opportunities, start networking when you are a student. This can help you get an internship, but also form connections that can be useful later in your job search. To land that first job, it is also imperative to have a well-written job application.

AJC FILE Skilled trade jobs can range and include a variety of hands-on positions in manufacturing, construction, agriculture or the service industry, such as manicurist.