Market is Ripe for Learning a Trade

As the American economy continues to recover from its recent downfall, economists are starting to see the difference between completing four years of college and completing a two-year program. Although the employment rate is still better for those with a bachelor’s degree, there are still millions of jobs opening up in the trades. In fact, some of them have a higher payout than a regular job.

Unfortunately, learning a trade is not so popular among the youth. Not many youngsters aspire to be electricians, plumbers, or auto mechanics when they grow up. If you ask a small child what he wants to be when he reaches adulthood, he is most likely to reply a white-collar job that involves managerial, administrative, or professional work.

However, blue-collar jobs are actually pretty lucrative. Electricians, plumbers, and mechanics make good money. Learning a trade can even save you during a time of economic downturn since tradesmen are always on demand. Many blue-collar jobs are recession-proof and depression-proof.

Aside from job security, these jobs can give you more flexibility on your work schedule. In this day and age, disconnecting from work is difficult. Phone calls, e-mails, and video conferences seem to never end. Most people become a slave to their office jobs. With a blue-collar job, you are not always “plugged in”. You can refresh your system and prepare for the day ahead. If ever you decide to work overtime, you can charge your clients a premium rate.

Even if you already have an office job, you can still learn a trade. The tuition fee is only about $2,400 per year. This is much lower than what you would pay if you decide to enroll in a four-year program at a university. Here are some of the most lucrative tradesmen positions that you can have:

· Construction Manager

If you want to start a career as a construction manager, you have to begin by researching and participating in construction management programs. You can enroll at your local community college or obtain training through a construction industry association. You can also enroll in a four-year program in construction science, construction engineering, or any other related field. You can actually have a better employment opportunity if you obtain a diploma instead of just a certification.

The United States Bureau of Labor Statistics states that about 61% of construction managers worked for themselves in 2008. Those who worked as employees, on the other hand, mostly worked in residential or non-residential building construction firms and specialty trade contractor businesses. The demand for construction managers is expected to increase up to 17% by 2018.

· HVAC Mechanic

HVAC stands for heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration. HVAC installers and mechanics are trained at trade schools and technical schools. You can also enroll at a junior or community college that offers HVAC programs if you want to learn the trade. The training usually lasts for six months up to two years. Your apprenticeship program can last up to five years.

In order for you to become a certified HVAC mechanic, you need to have a license. The requirements for licensing generally vary from one state to another, but you most definitely have to pass a written exam. If you wish to work with refrigerants, you also have to be certified in their proper handling. HVAC job opportunities are great. The demand for HVAC mechanics is expected to increase up to 28% by 2018.

· Aviation Maintenance Technician

If you want to start a career as an aviation maintenance technician, you need to attend an Aviation Maintenance Technician school that has been certified by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). You need to complete 1,900 hours of classroom instruction within one or two years. Another option is to enroll in a two-year or four-year program in aviation technology, aviation maintenance management, or avionics.

Majority of service technicians and airline mechanics work in airports. Civilian mechanics, on the other hand, usually work for the United States Armed Forces. When it comes to licensing, you need to obtain an FAA certification. Your chances of getting hired by an airline are slim if you are not FAA-certified. If you want to get a power plant or airframe certificate, you need to have at least eighteen months of work experience. If you are aiming for a combined A&P certificate, you need to have at least thirty months of work experience. You are also required to keep your certificates up to date by having at least sixteen hours of training every couple of years.

Working in the skilled trades does not only give you the opportunity to earn lots of money. It also gives you the satisfaction of being able to put your abilities and skills to good use.