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.

Cosmetology

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.

To become an electrician, you will need to receive formal training through a trade school or apprenticeship. To find an apprenticeship in your state, use this interactive map from Explore the Trades.

Web development

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.

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