Many people believe that having a college degree is necessary to have a good career. But this is just not the case. There are definitely some high paying jobs that require a degree, but there are also many well paying jobs in the trades. In fact, for many of these jobs, the pay is comparable to positions that require a college degree.
Here are some reasons why you should consider a job in the skilled trades.
1. Learn by doing
With a skilled trade, you learn on the job while you are earning money as an apprentice. You learn by doing, rather than sitting in a classroom watching someone lecture. And, while you are working, you are earning your way to a certificate.
Rather than just absorbing a lot of theory, facts, and information, you are getting real world experience as you learn a trade.
2. Lower costs
The cost of a college education has been rising for many years, as is well known. The tuition at a public university is now at least $10,000 a year or more, and the cost of private universities can be four or five times that amount. Many students graduate with a mountain of debt that takes them years to pay off.
By contrast, the cost of learning a trade is much less, and there are loans and grants available. Students finish their training with much less debt.
3. Less time
While earning a college degree takes at least four years, you can complete your training in a trade in about half that time.
4. The money is good
As mentioned, the pay for a job in the trades is good, rivaling that of a white-collar job. For example, the starting salary for a newly minted sheet metal worker is more than $52,000 a year. Tradespeople with more experience command even higher salaries.
That compares very favorably with many entry-level white-collar jobs, which average around $50,000 a year.
5. Good job security
There is always a strong demand for tradespeople. And, with the Baby Boomer generation retiring, there are more jobs than ever available. Even during a downturn in the economy, people and businesses still need welders, plumbers, carpenters, and other tradespeople.
Considering a Skilled-Trade Opportunity?
At Opti Staffing, we value quality over quantity. We care about our job candidates, our results and our relationships. We take the time to get to know our candidates, enabling us to make better matches with employers. We treat our people with respect, and establish long-term relationships. We have placed thousands of people since 1999. Give us a call today to see what Opti can do for you.
