A trade school is otherwise known as a vocational school; these schools provide training for a specific job or vocation. Individuals who attend trade schools learn the skills needed for their chosen career path, such as welding, business administration, or computer repair.
Trade schools offer a quicker and more affordable path into the workforce than a traditional four-year university. Trade schools which are also called technical colleges and vocational schools focus on training individuals for jobs in high-demand fields.
This guide introduces you to the best trade school jobs and the projected earnings, explore our list and choose the path that suits you.
Best Jobs For Trade School Graduates
1. Web Developer
Web Developers are IT professionals whose job includes creating websites, and designing the overall aesthetic and layout of the pages. They also oversee back-end technical aspects of websites including the site’s performance speed and traffic capacity. Web developers can also double as webmasters, updating content, monitoring usability, and fixing issues such as broken links.
With the advancement of technology, there has been a high demand for web developers and the pay is not bad at all. The estimated median salary for web developers is $78,300.
2. Elevator Installer and Repairer
Elevator Installers and Repairers are professionals who are responsible for assembling, maintaining, and fixing elevators, escalators, moving walkways, chairlifts, and other automotive lifts.
They determine the machinery and components to be used for installing and testing an elevator for functionality by reading building blueprints. They also conduct routine maintenance on elevators to ensure that it is in compliance with building codes and government safety standards. Before becoming an elevator installer and repairer, you must complete a four-year apprenticeship.
3. Radiation Therapist
Radiation therapists work hand in hand with physicians, oncologists, and nurses to treat diseases like cancer. These healthcare workers use linear accelerators to shrink and destroy cancerous tumors, they also oversee radiation therapy sessions.
Radiation therapists are involved in the monitoring of patients during treatment for any negative reactions while adhering to strict safety protocols. Radiation therapists are some of the most well-paid professionals on our list.
4. Diagnostic Medical Sonographer
Diagnostic medical sonographers work with physicians and surgeons to diagnose illnesses and other medical conditions and prepare patients for operations. Sonographers use imaging machines to produce sonograms and ultrasounds to help detect and identify abnormalities in the human body.
These professionals may specialize in a specific area of the body, such as the heart, blood vessels, female reproductive system, or abdominal cavity. To become a medical sonographer you will need to possess a technical certificate from a school accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs.
5. Dental Hygienist
Dental hygienists ensure that patients have good oral health through preventative procedures and hygiene education. Dentists use a variety of hand and ultrasonic tools to remove plaque, stains, and tartar. They also detect early signs of oral diseases like gingivitis and oral cancer.
To become a dental hygienist, one must complete a three-year associate degree program that’s been accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation.
6. Electrical Line Workers
Electrical line workers are also referred to as line installers and repairers. These professionals use their training to oversee the installation and repairs of electrical power lines, telecommunication cables, and fiber optics.
These workers assess the integrity of lines through inspections and testing. Line workers must hold at least a high school or GED diploma and traditionally complete an apprenticeship or training program.
7. Respiratory Therapist
Respiratory therapists provide support to patients with breathing problems and cardiopulmonary conditions. These medical professionals interview patients before proceeding to assess their lung function and conduct other diagnostic tests. In collaboration with physicians, they identify treatment plans that suit each patient’s needs.
To become a respiratory therapist you must hold an associate degree from a trade college duly accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care.
8. Electrician
Electricians typically work with contractors to install and test power-based equipment, such as control grids, communication networks, and lighting systems. Through analysis drawn from building blueprints, they identify the proper placement of circuits and breakers in buildings.
They are also involved in the maintenance of existing systems and identify solutions for fixing hard-to-reach wiring, motors, and other electrical components. To become an electrician, you must develop your skills through a paid apprenticeship program that lasts 4-5 years. Upon completion.
9. Plumber
Professional plumbers are involved with the installation and maintenance of piping systems that carry liquid and gas in office buildings, industrial facilities, and homes.
Plumbers conduct inspections and prepare cost estimates for tasks like installing a bathtub and replacing a broken pipe or fixture for residential clients. They can also ensure that a site’s plumbing satisfies building codes and federal standards. To become a plumber, you’ll typically need to complete an apprenticeship, which lasts 4 to 5 years.
10. Mortician
Morticians otherwise known as funeral service workers are involved with overseeing a variety of details surrounding the deceased.
They are also known as funeral directors as they manage funeral services by working closely with religious representatives, cemeteries, and families to ensure a hitch-free interment. They may also embalm bodies and utilize cosmetic training to prepare the deceased for viewings and funerals.