This is The Way: Career Stories to Find Your Way–a video series created by Get Schooled. In this series, you’ll hear from professionals in all types of industries about how they found their way and the advice they have for young people starting their first jobs. We’re here to help you find your way!
Following Your Artistic Passion with Mary Elizabeth L!
Company: Custom jewelry/jeweler/goldsmith
Title: Business Owner
Experience at current job: 4 years as business owner, 28 years as goldsmith
Postsecondary: Kansas City Art Institute (4 year college of art and design)
Mary Elizabeth is a Goldsmith and entrepreneur. She went to college and was also an apprentice. Now she works with people to build custom jewelry!
No Bad Days at the Chocolate Factory with Nate C!
Company: Dandelion Chocolate
Title: Lead Chocolate Maker
Experience at current job: 3 years
Postsecondary: Cal Poly San Luis Obispo
Nate is a Lead Chocolate Maker at Dandelion Chocolate. He says that solving problems every day and making a great product is what ensures that there is never a bad day at the chocolate factory!
There are many career paths you can choose from to tap into your creativity, passions, and interests. Lots of them also might not need a four-year college degree to reach! A vocational trade school is a great option if you want to explore a certain career path while cutting down on the cost of a traditional four-year degree! If you are interested in serving others and have a passion for wellness and beauty, you might be a great candidate for working in the cosmetology field! Here are some important things to keep in mind if you’re considering attending a cosmetology school.
Who goes to cosmetology school?
Cosmetology is a broad term for services including hairdressing, makeup artistry, skin care, barbering, and manicuring. If you find yourself interested in any of those professions, enrolling in a cosmetology program may be right for you! Cosmetologists are creative, entrepreneurial, enjoy having a flexible schedule, and love to work with and serve people.
What does a cosmetology program entail?
There are three main types of cosmetology programs you might find: programs attached to community colleges, dedicated cosmetology schools, and apprenticeship programs. These programs will vary in the length of time they take to complete depending on their scope and focus. For example, while some programs will be part-time and specialize in a specific area of cosmetology, like hairdressing, others may take a more holistic approach. These types of programs may require students to study multiple different areas of cosmetology for completion, resulting in a longer amount of time spent in school. Community college programs might be shorter-term (six months to a year), while dedicated cosmetology schools like Sasoon Academy or Empire Beauty Schools may take a bit longer (1-2 years). There are also 21 states that have official apprenticeship programs for cosmetology that give students the opportunity to work in a salon and learn their trade from a mentor.
What kinds of classes are offered?
No matter what program you choose, you can expect to receive an education directly tied to jobs in the beauty and wellness industry. In addition to learning about core cosmetology skills and practices, these programs will likely also include classes about health and safety, customer service, and relationship building. These are important practical skills to have, especially if you plan to work in a public-facing business or dream to own a business after finishing your program!
The most important end goal for any program, no matter what career you choose to pursue within the wider cosmetology field, is that you feel prepared to take your state’s licensing exam– an exam you will need to pass in order to work. When researching programs, be sure to ask about how they’ll prepare you for this exam!
Each program will tailor your course of study to the requirements that your state has in place to receive a cosmetology license. You’ll likely take classes in facials, hairdressing for different types of hair, nail care, skin care, and makeup. If you want to open your own salon someday, you might also get to take classes in business management and entrepreneurship. No matter what program you end up choosing, your education will be hands-on, experimental, and tied directly to a job once you complete it!
How can I pay for cosmetology school?
Generally, cosmetology schools and programs are more affordable than most four-year colleges and universities. When deciding which cosmetology school or program to enroll in, it’s essential to ensure that it’s accredited. Only accredited schools and programs in the U.S. are eligible for federal financial aid. This means that if you attend an accredited school, you are able to complete the FAFSA and receive any federal aid you’re eligible for, such as scholarships, grants, and loans. Receiving federal aid can significantly reduce the money you spend attending school. You should be able to find out whether a school is accredited directly on their website or by checking out the National Accrediting Commission of Career Arts and Sciences.
Have you ever wondered what an apprenticeship is and what it can offer to your career? We’ll dive into what you need to know about apprenticeships, exploring their benefits and where to find opportunities in various high-demand industries near you!
An apprenticeship, also sometimes referred to as a “registered apprenticeship,” is a blend of education and career experience that allows someone to gain on-the-job training, paid work experience, classroom instruction, and a nationally recognized credential within their industry. Apprenticeships are common in the trades, such as carpentry, cosmetology, technology, and many more. However, as the demand for alternative pathways to careers has increased, apprenticeships are now being offered in industries such as health care, green energy, maritime, and education. These are great opportunities to learn, get paid, and earn crucial skills that can set you up for a successful career!
How do I find an apprenticeship?
If you’re interested in becoming an apprentice, you can look for an opportunity near you through Apprenticeship Finder. You can also contact employers or program sponsors directly for more information about their apprenticeship opportunities.
What are the benefits of an apprenticeship?
Apprenticeships can open doors to hundreds of occupations, and are pathways to stable, well-paid, in-demand careers! According to Apprenticeship.gov, the average starting wage for an apprentice during training is more than $20 per hour, but can increase as an apprentice spends more time on the job and gains more skills. 90% percent of people who complete their apprenticeships retain employment with an average starting salary of $80,000. Compared to peers who don’t complete an apprenticeship program, apprentice graduates earn $300,000 more over their lifetime.
In addition to professional and financial benefits, apprenticeships also contribute to personal growth. Apprentices learn the value of discipline, responsibility, and continuous learning. These can be critical for long-term career success and personal development, regardless of the jobs you work!
What are some careers offered through apprenticeships?
Here are a few examples of jobs that typically have apprenticeships:
Succeeding in an apprenticeship involves a combination of preparation, active engagement, and continuous learning. Here are some essential tips to help you thrive:
Understand the commitment
Apprenticeships require a commitment of time and effort, similar to completing a bachelor’s degree in college. Be prepared to balance on-the-job training with classroom instruction. Understanding the demands and expectations of your specific program from the beginning can help you manage your time effectively.
Communicate proactively
Good communication is key in any workplace. Regularly communicate with your supervisors, expert apprentices, mentors, and colleagues. Don’t hesitate to ask for feedback and clarify any doubts you have about your tasks or the skills you’re learning. Effective communication will also help you build strong professional relationships. This is a proactive process, so your initiative will keep you engaged.
Seek mentorship
Having a mentor can provide valuable guidance and support. Normally in an apprenticeship, you will have the same instructors and experts in the field guide you for years. These are experienced professionals who may be willing to share their knowledge and guidance with you! A mentor can help you navigate the challenges of your apprenticeship, provide career advice, and be a key piece of your early career network.
Network and build relationships
Networking is an important part of professional growth. Take advantage of opportunities to meet and interact with professionals in your field. Attend industry events, join professional organizations, and connect with colleagues and mentors on LinkedIn.
Embrace challenges and stay resilient
Apprenticeships can be challenging, so it’s important to stay resilient. Embrace each challenge as a learning opportunity. Develop problem-solving skills and a positive attitude toward overcoming obstacles. Resilience will help you adapt to the demands of your apprenticeship and succeed in your career.
If you’re exploring different career paths, know that pre-apprenticeship programs provide a structured way to enter many of them! We share what you should know about pre-apprenticeship programs.
What is a Pre-Apprenticeship Program?
Pre-apprenticeship programs provide a structured way for students to explore different career paths before transitioning to a registered apprenticeship program to pursue a path further. These programs typically offer a combination of classroom instruction and hands-on training. For example, if you are in a healthcare-focused pre-apprenticeship, you may take some human science classes from a registered nurse before working in a lab or hospital to gain real work experience. These are often also paid experiences, so you get to learn and earn!
While these kinds of programs were traditionally mostly offered in trades like construction and manufacturing, more industries are now offering pre-apprenticeships to help people explore career paths earlier, such as clean energy, information technology, health care, education, and architecture.
Benefits of Pre-Apprenticeship Programs
Participating in a pre-apprenticeship program offers key benefits to consider:
Skill development: Gain skills and knowledge that make you an excellent candidate for potential jobs in a specific industry, and eventually, for apprenticeship programs.
Industry and career exposure: Explore different industries and career paths to make informed decisions about your future.
Networking opportunities: Connect with professionals in your chosen field and build a network that can support your career growth.
Smooth transition: A structured pathway into a registered apprenticeship ensures a seamless transition, reducing the learning curve once you start your apprenticeship.
Earn a credential: Many programs offer industry-recognized certifications that enhance your resume. These could include things like safety training certificates for manufacturing or learning specific coding languages within an IT program.
Earn money: Many pre-apprenticeship programs will offer wages or a stipend.
How to Find a Pre-Apprenticeship Program
These programs are typically short-term (lasting anywhere from a few weeks to a few months) that allow you to explore industries and job paths you might be interested in. High-quality pre-apprenticeship programs typically have partnerships with registered apprenticeship programs to make your transition smooth.
Apprenticeships are normally based around the key industries in your area. For example, if you live in a port city, there may be more maritime or shipbuilding opportunities. If you’re in a rural area, there may be more agricultural opportunities. We recommend using the Apprenticeship Finder tool to look up opportunities near you, or search “Pre-apprenticeship programs near me” online.
Examples of Pre-Apprenticeship Programs
YouthBuild – Nationwide
YouthBuild is a community-based pre-apprenticeship program that serves youth ages 16-24. Participants split their time between vocational training in construction, health care, IT, and hospitality, and classroom education to earn their high school diploma or equivalent. They also participate in community service projects, such as constructing affordable housing or helping operate community health clinics.
Aerospace Joint Apprenticeship Committee (AJAC) – Washington State
The Aerospace Joint Apprenticeship Committee (AJAC) offers a 10-week, free training program to young people in Washington State. Their Manufacturing Academy will give you a solid foundational career pathway into aerospace and advanced manufacturing opportunities.
Job Corps – Nationwide
Job Corps offers GED or high school diplomas and industry-recognized certificate programs in 81 high-demand industries. It’s free for those between the ages of 16 to 24, and free housing is offered for those that need it.
Techbridge Youth Program – Nationwide
Techbridge offers virtual and in-school STEM programming nationwide, helping students build foundational skills in technology and innovation. It includes hands-on activities and life skills workshops.
How to Succeed in a Pre-Apprenticeship Program
Succeeding in your pre-apprenticeship program is similar to doing well in school or excelling at any job. Here are some key things to remember as you go through your program:
Stay committed: Treat your pre-apprenticeship like a job! Show up on time, be reliable, and demonstrate a strong work ethic by trying your best.
Be proactive: Take initiative in your learning. Ask questions, seek feedback, and look for opportunities to practice your skills.
Network: Build relationships with your instructors, mentors, and fellow participants. Networking can open doors to future job opportunities.
Stay organized: Keep track of your assignments, deadlines, and progress. Staying organized helps you manage your time effectively.
Seek support: Don’t hesitate to ask for help if you’re struggling. Utilize the resources and support services offered by your program.
Reflect: Be sure to take time during and after your experience to think about what you learned and if you enjoyed the experience. You could realize that you love a specific career path or not! Both are incredibly valuable as you plan for your future!
There are many different types of trade programs out there! These programs, most commonly offered through trade schools or at community colleges, are tailored to help students learn essential skills in their chosen trade. In this article, we’ll share some popular trade programs, where to find them, and the careers they can help you land!
To explore even more trade programs and schools, use this free database! Just enter your zip code to begin.
People who attend cosmetology school are typically interested in beauty and wellness. Cosmetologists are creative, entrepreneurial, and can have flexible schedules. Some cosmetology schools require students to study and practice a variety of skills within cosmetology, such as hair, nails, skincare, or makeup. Others have more specialized and focused programs that allow students to focus on their specific skill of choice.
Getting your cosmetology certificate or license opens you up to all sorts of great career opportunities! There is always a demand for cosmetologists, especially in industries like entertainment. This is also a great pathway if you want to learn about owning and running your own business someday.
Culinary
If you love working with your hands, cooking (and eating) great food, want to tell stories about your culture through your food, or have an entrepreneurial spirit, attending a culinary school might be right for you. Some students attend dedicated culinary schools, such as The Culinary Institute of America or the International Culinary Center. Others may attend culinary programs offered through a local community college.
Regardless of where you study, you will learn essential culinary skills that will be applicable in many different jobs. There are lots of jobs within the food service industry that a culinary program will prepare you for, such as caterer, entrepreneur, hotel or cruise services, airlines, food testing for large companies, personal chef, nutritionist, and baker–just to name a few!
Electrical
Electricians install, maintain, and repair electrical systems and products. They repair or replace wiring, equipment, or fixtures, and identify any electrical problems. Electricians can also work with construction workers, engineers, and architects to help design electrical systems for new buildings. They also have other important skills necessary to do the job, such as problem-solving, troubleshooting, customer service, and knowledge of safety procedures. By refining these skills over time, electricians can work their way up to become master electricians, the highest title and certification one can receive in the industry.
Web developers get to think creatively and use their technical skills when they design and develop websites or apps. They help companies and customers define the purpose, audience, and need for a website before building them. Web developers typically only need an associate degree or certification in web design, which can be completed both at community colleges and through online specialized programs. During their training, web developers learn many coding languages and techniques that can translate into many different kinds of jobs, especially as the tech industry continues to boom.
Emergency services/EMT
Emergency medical technicians, or EMTs, provide lifesaving care to patients at the scene of an emergency. They work alongside other first responders to provide critical care to patients before transporting them to the hospital. EMTs must stay prepared and ready to walk into any kind of situation and care for patients of all ages and backgrounds. Those that are quick on their feet, can make fast judgment calls, and are passionate about health care should consider becoming EMTs.
Thorough training to become an EMT is required. This training can be done at emergency care training centers, community colleges, and trade schools. To find an accredited EMT program near you, use this database from the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs. The most important thing about any EMT program is that it prepares its participants to become certified– a necessary step to work in this field.
Dental assistants are often the first people you interact with when entering a dentist’s office. They prepare patients before the dentist or dental hygienist arrives, including preparing patient rooms, processing X-rays, and preparing medical instruments and equipment. Dental assistants also schedule follow-up appointments and handle billing and payment.
Medical assistants record patient vitals (like body temperature and blood pressure) and prepare patient rooms. They also have administrative responsibilities, like gathering a patient’s medical history, scheduling appointments, and preparing insurance paperwork.
CNAs assist patients with their daily activities such as hygiene and grooming. They record vitals, help feed and dress patients, and adjust patient beds and rooms.
LPNs provide patient care under the supervision of a Registered Nurse (RN) and/or doctor. They record patient medical histories and vitals. They can also give patients intravenous medication (IVs).
EMTs and paramedics respond to medical emergencies. They examine a patient’s injuries at the scene of an emergency and take patients by ambulance to the hospital. They also operate medical instruments and give patients medication in a fast-paced environment.
Medical records specialists process and maintain health care paperwork. They do data entry of patient/treatment records and monitor activity in the office. They also work with insurance companies to report the patient’s medical conditions and treatments.
Electricians install, maintain, and repair electrical systems and products that are used in homes, businesses, and factories. They repair or replace wiring, equipment, or fixtures and identify any electrical problems. Electricians can also work with construction workers, engineers, and architects to help design electrical systems for new buildings.
Barbers, hairdressers, and cosmetologists shampoo, cut, and color hair. They can also apply makeup or provide nail and skincare services. They work mostly in barber shops or salons, advising clients on how to care for their hair, skin, and nails.
Manicurists and pedicurists clean, shape, and polish nails. They clean the equipment and tools used (like nail files, nail clippers, and foot baths) and teach clients about how to care for their nails. They also schedule appointments and sell nail care products.
Massage therapists give therapy treatments to relieve pain, rehabilitate injuries, and reduce stress. They interview clients on their medical history and document their progress. They also give clients guidance on proper stretching and improving posture.
When you turn on a light switch, start a car, or eat at a restaurant, do you ever think about the people who made it happen? In this article, we’ll break down five common trade jobs that affect your everyday life!
Carpenters
Wherever you live, work, and go to school, a carpenter helped build the structure around you! Carpenters construct buildings made from wood, plastic, drywall, and other materials. They use different hand tools (wrenches, handsaws, and screwdrivers) and power tools (sanders, circular saws, and welding machines). In some instances, carpenters also use smartphones or tablets to help with planning and ensuring calculations are accurate. To become a carpenter, a high school diploma or GED is required, and training is on the job through apprenticeship or trade school programs.
Plumbers
When you take a shower or turn on the sink, plumbers are the people who made it happen! Plumbers not only install tubs, toilets, and sinks, but they also ensure the pipes that run through houses and buildings carry water, gas, and other substances in a safe and effective way. Most plumbers start with their high school diploma or GED, then get formal training through an apprenticeship program or trade school.
Mechanics
Automotive service technicians, also known as mechanics, make sure all vehicles (cars, buses, and even subways) run smoothly! Their day-to-day work includes inspecting, maintaining, and repairing vehicles. Mechanics typically repair or replace things like brake pads and tires, or perform basic maintenance like changing oil or checking fluid levels. Mechanics also use computerized systems to test vehicles and figure out what’s not working properly. Mechanics usually complete their education and training though a trade program.
Licensed Practical Nurses
Did you know that some jobs in the medical field don’t require a four-year or advanced degree? If you’ve been to the doctor’s office, there’s a chance you’ve interacted with a licensed practical nurse (LPN). LPNs provide basic medical care, and are usually the first to meet with you before your doctor sees you. They record your medical history and take your vitals such as blood pressure, temperature, and pulse. LPNs must complete a state-approved trade program that combines both in-classroom and hands-on learning.
Chefs and Head Cooks
Try to think of the best meal you’ve ever eaten in a restaurant. A chef with culinary school background likely made that for you! Chefs and head cooks oversee daily food preparation at restaurants, hotels, and other places that serve food. They oversee kitchen staff, develop recipes, plan menus, and order ingredients and kitchen supplies. Chefs also take into account food health and safety laws to ensure their food is safely prepared and stored so that customers don’t get sick. Some chefs are even self-employed and open their own restaurants! There are many culinary arts programs that offer formal training. Learn more about attending culinary school!
While we only shared five examples, this is just a small look into the many ways trade careers impact your everyday life! Some of these professions also make similar salaries to careers that require four-year degrees, and as experienced workers are aging out and retiring from their trade careers, the demand for these types of jobs will only increase in the future.
There are many career paths you can choose from to tap into your creativity, passions, and interests. Lots of them also might not need a four-year college degree to reach! A vocational trade school is a great option if you want to explore a certain career path while cutting down on the cost of a traditional four-year degree! If you are interested in food, cooking, restaurants, and feeding others, you might be a great candidate for working in the culinary field! Here are some important things to keep in mind if you’re considering attending a culinary school.
Who goes to culinary school?
If you love working with your hands, cooking (and eating) great food, want to tell stories about your culture through your food, or have an entrepreneurial spirit, the food service business may be a great career path for you! Culinary programs provide hands-on, experiential work in kitchens– highly collaborative spaces where you will use all of your senses. The temperatures are hot, the knives are sharp, and communication with your peers is key to success! If you find yourself energized by that kind of environment, culinary school could be a great fit for you.
What does a culinary program entail?
There are three main culinary programs to think about: community college culinary arts programs, dedicated culinary schools, and online programs. Community college programs are often tailored to their local community. For instance, a community college culinary arts program may partner with local restaurants to hire instructors or build job pathways for graduates. These programs will often lead to an associate degree. Dedicated culinary programs like The Culinary Institute of America or the International Culinary Center likely offer a wider range of educational pathways within the food service industry. This could include shorter-term certifications that take less than a year to complete and programs that may take two or more years to complete but come with a bachelor’s degree. Finally, online culinary education is also an option, especially through larger, nationally recognized culinary schools like Escoffier School of Culinary Arts.
What kinds of classes are offered?
No matter what program you choose, you can expect to get an education directly tied to jobs in the food service industry. This means that all classes will be tailored to what you need to know as a chef, baker, or business owner within the industry. For example, instead of taking a regular math class, you might take a class in food service math and accounting. Instead of a history class, you might take a class in world cultures and the influence on cuisine.
Depending on your program or desired course of study within the culinary arts, you’ll take hands-on classes to teach you all the basics to become job-ready after graduation. This may include things like food safety, kitchen safety, learning the tools of the kitchen, business management, and, of course, the ins and outs of becoming a great chef or baker. Some programs even have courses of study in things like plant-based cuisine, nutrition, and sustainability!
Additionally, many culinary programs will have an “externship” requirement for graduation. This means that for an extended period of time, instead of going into your school to learn, you’ll be learning on the job at a restaurant, bakery, or other food business. This will give you more real-life experience to put your skills to the test and prepare you for a job after graduation!
How can I pay for culinary school?
Generally, culinary schools and programs are more affordable than most four-year colleges and universities. When deciding which culinary school or program to enroll in, it’s essential to ensure that it’s accredited. Only accredited schools and programs in the U.S. are eligible for federal financial aid. This means that if you attend an accredited school, you are able to complete the FAFSA and receive any federal aid you’re eligible for, such as scholarships, grants, and loans. Receiving federal aid can significantly reduce the money you spend attending school. You should be able to find out whether a school is accredited directly on their website or by checking out the American Culinary Federation’s list of accredited programs in the U.S.
If you enjoy hands-on, experiential learning where you can see the results of your hard work, enrolling in a trade program or at a trade school may be a great fit for you! Attending a trade school is often an affordable learning experience that prepares students to enter in-demand careers and industries. Here’s what you should know about trade schools, like how they work and what you’ll need to apply!
Trades are skilled jobs that require focused, specialized training and education. Some common trades are in industries like construction, manufacturing, and carpentry–but the definition of “trades” is rapidly expanding to include careers in technology, cosmetology, culinary arts, health care, and many other industries.
How do trade schools work? What makes them different from four-year colleges?
Trades are taught through trade schools, technical and vocational schools, and at participating community colleges. The types of trades taught through each kind of school or program will vary.
Some key differences between trade schools and four-year colleges include:
Education. Students in trade programs focus only on the specialized trade they’re studying, while students attending a four-year college typically must take elective courses before they begin taking courses for their major.
Time spent in school. Because trade students only study the trade they’ve chosen, they typically spend much less time in school than students at four-year colleges. Trade programs usually last anywhere from a few months to two years.
Degrees/certificates. Students completing a trade program do not receive a degree, but a certificate of completion which is often industry-recognized. Students attending four-year colleges typically graduate with their bachelor’s degree.
Cost. Trade programs are typically much more affordable than tuition at a four-year college.
What do I need to enroll in a trade school?
Typically, the only thing students need to enroll in a trade school is their high school diploma, GED, or equivalent. Trade schools have a minimum age requirement which is typically 17 or 18 years old.
What are the benefits of attending a trade school?
Attending a trade school has many benefits! Here are a few:
Class sizes. Class sizes at trade schools are typically small, meaning you’re likely to receive consistent, hands-on support from your instructors.
Strong job prospects. Trade jobs are consistently in-demand, pay well, lead to stable salary increases over the years, and often offer union protections and benefits. The types of trade programs offered in your area may have been built around the industries in-demand near you. For example, maritime jobs in the Pacific Northwest, energy jobs in Texas, and off-shore wind farm jobs in the Northeast are all in-demand!
Earn and learn. Many trade programs have employer partners who offer internships, pre-apprenticeships, or apprenticeships to students. These are great paid opportunities that help students apply their learning to real-life situations and gain valuable on-the-job experience!
Are trade programs affordable?
Generally, trade programs are more affordable than tuition at a four-year college. With this in mind, students may find that they need some financial assistance to cover the full cost of their trade program.
Students attending an accredited trade school can complete the FAFSA, which can make them eligible to receive financial aid such as scholarships, grants, and loans. This financial aid (especially scholarships and grants, which typically don’t need to be repaid) can significantly reduce the cost of a trade program!
The cost of attending a trade school in your area will depend on a variety of factors, so if you’re interested in a school or program, be sure to do your research to understand its affordability.
Where should I start my search?
We recommend starting your search on this database, which can help you find and learn more about trade schools in your area. After finding a few schools and programs you’re interested in, it’s important to make sure they’re accredited so you will be eligible to receive federal financial aid.
What should I keep in mind when researching trade schools and programs?
There are a few things to keep in mind as you begin your research:
Job availability and salary potential. As you think about what you want to study, knowing the job market in your area is important. For example, if you live in an area where there are lots of tech jobs, or where construction is booming, those are great industries to think about pursuing. In addition to this, it can be helpful to have a general idea of the pay that people working in industries that interest you make.
Accreditation. Be sure that the schools you’re interested in are accredited. Not only do accredited schools meet specific criteria for quality of education, they are the only types of trade schools that are eligible for federal financial aid. This means that if you’re enrolled at a trade school that isn’t accredited, you won’t be able to complete the FAFSA and receive federal financial aid.
Transferable credits. If you’re considering transferring to a four-year college once you complete your trade program, keep in mind that some or all of your credits may not be transferable. When researching trade schools and programs, check in about how their credits work and what the likelihood is of your credits transferring in the future.
How can I succeed in my trade program?
Success in a trade program requires more than just attending classes and completing assignments. Here are key strategies and resources to help you thrive during your time in a trade program:
Engage actively in classes and training. Make the most of your hands-on learning opportunities by actively participating in all practical sessions and lab work. What you’re learning is literally going to be your job! Don’t hesitate to ask questions whenever you need clarification or a deeper understanding of the material.
Seek out practical experience. You may have the opportunity to apply for internships or pre-apprenticeships while in your trade program, which will allow you to gain even more real-world experience. These opportunities not only allow you to apply what you’ve learned, but also enhance your resume.
Build a professional network. The connections you make in school will be the building blocks of your professional network. This will include fellow students and your instructors, who can provide support, advice, and potential job leads.
Find a mentor. Seek out experienced professionals in your field who can provide mentorship. A mentor can be someone you look up to at your job or an instructor you connect with who can help you navigate your career path. Being proactive and asking for support can feel scary, but the benefits can be enormous!
