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Trades/Careers
Many of the rapidly growing sectors today are within the realm of Trade Careers or Jobs. The jobs falling under the Trade category usually demand specialized skills obtained through advanced training instead of a traditional 4-year college education. In certain instances, trade programs are even available during high school, followed by an apprenticeship after graduation. Industries like construction and manufacturing are often labeled as skilled trades.
HVAC (Heating Ventilation, AC)
Individuals interested in an HVACR (Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration) career have several options, including completing a certification, earning an associate’s degree, or pursuing a Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering Technology. Graduates can find employment opportunities as HVAC Engineers, HVAC Installers, Refrigeration Technicians, Automotive HVAC Technicians, Wind Turbine Technicians, and even as Service or Project Managers. Among these roles, the most sought-after job in this field is that of an AC technician.
Role & Responsibility
- Set up, clean, and keep HVACR systems in good shape.
- Install electrical parts and wiring.
- Check and test HVACR systems and their parts.
- Talk to customers about problems with their systems.
- Fix or change out parts that are damaged or not working right.
- Suggest maintenance to enhance how well systems work.
- Keep a record of the work done.
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2022 Median Pay | $51,390 per year / $24.71 per hou |
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Work Experience in Related Occupation | None |
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Number of Jobs, 2022 | 415,800 |
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Job Outlook, 2022-32 | 6% (Faster than average) |
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Employment Change 2022-32 | 23,000 |
Based on national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary.
How to become
Many HVAC technicians get education after high school from technical or trade schools, as well as community colleges that have heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration programs. These programs usually go on for about six months to 2 years, resulting in a certificate or an associate’s degree. High school students who want to become HVAC technicians should take vocational education, math, and physics classes. Knowing about plumbing or electrical work and a basic grasp of electronics is also useful.
Automotive Technology
The field of automotive offers a range of intriguing degrees to pursue. You might find interest in a mechanics degree, which covers maintenance, repair, and design development of vehicles, aircraft, and industrial machines. Alternatively, you could explore an automotive technology degree to learn the skills needed for diagnosing issues. No matter your interest, there’s a variety of sought-after roles available, but the first step is to choose the program that aligns best with your passion.
Role & Responsibility
- Detect issues, often utilizing computerized diagnostic tools.
- Devise work methods using charts, technical guides, and expertise.
- Evaluate components and systems to verify their proper operation.
- Adhere to checklists to guarantee thorough examination of critical components.
- Undertake basic upkeep and servicing tasks, like oil changes, fluid checks, and tire rotation.
- Fix or swap out worn components such as brake pads, wheel bearings, and sensors.
- Execute repairs according to manufacturer and customer requirements.
- Elaborate on automotive problems and repairs to customers.
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2022 Median Pay | $46,970 per year / $22.58 per hour |
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Work Experience in Related Occupation | None |
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Number of Jobs, 2022 | 782,200 |
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Job Outlook, 2022-32 | 2% (As fast as average) |
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Employment Change 2022-32 | 12,800 |
Based on national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary.
How to become
High school automotive repair, electronics, computers, and math classes offer a solid foundation for potential service technicians. However, most high school graduates require additional training to become fully skilled. The best path for starting positions usually involves completing a vocational or other postsecondary education program in automotive service technology. These programs typically run for six months to a year and offer focused career training through both classroom learning and hands-on practice. Additionally, shorter certificate programs are available that specialize in specific areas like brake maintenance or engine performance.
Aviation Maintenance Management
The Bachelor of Science in Aviation Maintenance Management equips students with a practical understanding of aircraft safety, aviation technology, physics, airline management, and the FAA regulations connected to aircraft production, operation, and maintenance. Safety stands out as the utmost priority in aerospace, playing a crucial role in ensuring a secure and reliable experience for pilots, flight crews, and passengers.
Role & Responsibility
- Diagnose mechanical or electrical problems
- Repair wings, brakes, electrical systems, and other aircraft components
- Replace defective parts using hand tools or power tools
- Test aircraft parts with gauges and other diagnostic equipment
- Inspect completed work to ensure that it meets performance standards
- Interpret flight test data to diagnose malfunctions and performance problems
- Assemble components, such as electrical controls and junction boxes, and install software
- Install instrument panels using hand tools, power tools, and soldering irons
- Keep records of maintenance and repair work
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2022 Median Pay | $70,740 per year / $34.01 per hour |
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Work Experience in Related Occupation | None |
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Number of Jobs, 2022 | 161,000 |
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Job Outlook, 2022-32 | 4% (As fast as average) |
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Employment Change 2022-32 | 7,000 |
Based on national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary.
How to become
Aircraft mechanics and service technicians usually start their careers by attending an FAA-approved aviation maintenance technician school under Part 147. These schools issue a certificate of completion that the FAA acknowledges as an alternative to the experience requirements outlined in regulations. Graduates of these schools are also permitted to take the relevant FAA exams. Avionics technicians usually earn an associate’s degree before entering the profession. As aircraft controls, systems, and flight instruments become more digital and computerized, there is a growing demand for professionals with expertise in aviation flight instruments or computer repair to maintain these intricate systems. While not mandatory, a bachelor’s degree in engineering or a related field, like transportation, might provide valuable foundational knowledge.
Welding
Individuals interested in becoming a welder have several routes to consider, starting with obtaining certifications such as AWS D1.1 3G, 4G SMAW, or 3G MIG Welding. Successfully passing these certification tests is often satisfactory for most employers, though it may lead to entry-level positions. Pursuing an Associate of Applied Science in Welding Technology provides education in welding safety, arc and pipe welding, blueprint interpretation, tungsten inert gas welding, and metal inert gas welding. More experienced graduates can aim to become welding inspectors. For those seeking a broader scope, a Bachelor of Science in Welding Engineering Technology offers insights into maintenance and quality control, product and machinery testing, metallurgy for welding engineers, alloy fabrication, welding codes, computer-aided design for engineers, and materials science. Graduates of a bachelor’s degree program may also qualify for industry certifications such as the American Welding Society’s Certified Welding Engineer credential.
Role & Responsibility
- Examine blueprints, sketches, or specs
- Figure out the measurements of components for welding
- Check structures or materials meant for welding
- Start torches or power supplies
- Supervise welding to prevent overheating
- Keep up equipment and machinery
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2022 Median Pay | $47,540 per year / $22.86 per hour |
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Work Experience in Related Occupation | None |
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Number of Jobs, 2022 | 431,800 |
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Job Outlook, 2022-32 | 1% (Little or no change) |
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Employment Change 2022-32 | 6,200 |
Based on national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary.
How to become
A high school diploma or equivalent qualification, technical training, and on-the-job experience are usually necessary to start a career as a welder, cutter, solderer, or brazer. Individuals can attend vocational-technical institutes, community colleges, or private schools specializing in welding, soldering, and brazing for formal technical training. Additionally, different branches of the U.S. Armed Forces offer welding and soldering training.
Courses in blueprint reading, shop mathematics, mechanical drawing, physics, chemistry, and metallurgy are beneficial. Understanding electricity is also advantageous, and computer knowledge is becoming more important as welding, soldering, and brazing machine operators take on responsibilities such as programming robots and other computer-controlled machines. While many employers are willing to hire entry-level workers and provide on-the-job training, some prefer to hire individuals who have completed training or obtained credentials. Even those with formal technical training often undergo several months of on-the-job training as entry-level workers.
Electrical / Electronics
Individuals pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Electronics will gain expertise in computer applications, programming, digital circuits, and wireless systems. They will also acquire knowledge in general electronic systems, information technology, and micro-electronics engineering principles. Graduates become proficient in various aspects, including electrical power, wiring outlets, repairing electrical boxes, and lighting and control systems. They are well-equipped to handle potentially hazardous situations and ensure a safe environment.
Role & Responsibility
- Construct electrical and electronic systems and models
- Construct, calibrate, and mend electrical tools or testing equipment
- Visit production sites to observe factors affecting the design
- Propose solutions to technical design issues during the creation of electrical systems
- Examine designs to ensure quality, document findings, and suggest alterations, if needed
- Create diagrams and draft descriptions of experimental electronics unit designs
- Develop primary circuitry and produce sketches to clarify design specifics under the guidance of engineers
- Fabricate prototypes based on plans or sketches
- Assemble, test, and uphold circuitry or electronic parts following engineering guidelines, electronics knowledge, and technical manuals
- Adjust and replace malfunctioning circuitry and electronic parts
- Craft components like coils and terminal boards using bench lathes, drills, or other machine tools.
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2022 Median Pay | $66,390 per year / $31.92 per hour |
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Work Experience in Related Occupation | None |
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Number of Jobs, 2022 | 102,500 |
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Job Outlook, 2022-32 | 1% (Little or no change) |
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Employment Change 2022-32 | 800 |
Based on national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary.
How to become
You can pursue an Associate’s degree in electrical or electronic engineering technology at community colleges or vocational-technical schools. Programs that are accredited by organizations like ABET usually cover subjects such as algebra, programming languages, physics, and circuitry. Depending on the specific job or industry, some employers might prefer candidates with a bachelor’s degree. However, for certain positions, a high school diploma or credentials from organizations like the National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET), ETA International, or the International Society of Automation could qualify you.
Hospitality & Facilities Management
For those aspiring to become a Building Supervisor, Construction Manager, Director of Operations and Maintenance, Facilities Director, Real Estate Asset Manager, or Safety Operations Supervisor, pursuing an Advanced Certificate in Facilities Management can be instrumental in reaching these career objectives. Upon completion, graduates will possess the essential skills to guarantee that building systems function optimally. Those who receive this certification can secure positions where they are accountable for maintaining crucial equipment, implementing energy-efficient lighting, overseeing onsite power generation, ensuring occupant security, minimizing operating expenses, managing building automation, and developing contingency plans.
Role & Responsibility
- Outline the event’s details, including timing, venue, and budget
- Request proposals from potential venues and service providers
- Evaluate venues to ensure they meet client expectations
- Manage event logistics like rooms, transportation, and catering
- Supervise event proceedings to ensure client and attendee contentment
- Examine event invoices and authorize payments
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2022 Median Pay | $52,560 per year / $25.27 per hour |
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Work Experience in Related Occupation | None |
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Number of Jobs, 2022 | 132,000 |
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Job Outlook, 2022-32 | 8% (Faster than average) |
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Employment Change 2022-32 | 9,900 |
Based on national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary.
How to become
Most meeting, convention, and event planners usually require a bachelor’s degree. Having some relevant experience in event planning can also be beneficial.
CDL/ Commercial Driving Certification
Driving a commercial motor vehicle demands specific skills, training, and physical capabilities, making a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) certification crucial if you pursue this career path. Before driving any type of motor vehicle on public roads, drivers must undergo rigorous testing in their home state. Additionally, you might require special endorsements if you or your company’s drivers intend to operate a truck with double or triple trailers, a tank truck, or a vehicle transporting hazardous materials.
Role & Responsibility
- Operate vehicles over extended distances
- Communicate any encountered incidents to a dispatcher
- Adhere to relevant traffic regulations
- Safely secure cargo using ropes, blocks, chains, or covers
- Conduct pre and post-trip inspections of trailers, noting any issues
- Maintain accurate work-hour records in line with federal and state guidelines
- Promptly report significant mechanical issues to appropriate authorities
- Ensure trucks and related equipment remain clean and well-maintained
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2022 Median Pay | $49,920 per year / $24.00 per hour |
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Work Experience in Related Occupation | None |
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Number of Jobs, 2022 | 2,192,300 |
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Job Outlook, 2022-32 | 4% (As fast as average) |
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Employment Change 2022-32 | 89,300 |
Based on national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary.
How to become
Heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers typically possess a high school diploma and complete training at a professional truck driving school. They must also hold a commercial driver’s license (CDL).