The trades or skilled trades are hands-on work in a variety of different careers
Examples include:
o Automotive
o Manufacturing
o Electrical
o Information Technology
o Construction (click here for a full list with descriptions)
o Cosmetology
o Culinary Arts
o Medical Imaging
Types of training depend on the field and desired job
Training is usually specific to the field of work and generally requires no General Education classes (e.g. math, English, etc.)
Examples:
o Certificate Programs (at a community or four year college)
o On-the-job training
Can be a great way to get additional training in a specific area.
Generally can be completed in 6-18 months and require no General Education classes (e.g. math, English, etc.).
Many can be “stacked” on top of previous certificates to make yourself more marketable when applying for jobs or moving up in your company or toward completing a 2-year degree.
Harper College offers over 70 certificate programs, but also has tuition agreements with other schools for programs not offered.
o Advanced Welding
o Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Service
o Bread and Pastry Arts
o Early Childhood Education
o Emergency and Disaster Management
o Graphic Arts
o Hotel Management
o IT Support Technician
o Kitchen and Bath Specialty
o Medical Assistant
o Private Security
o Web Development
o and 60+ more!
Employers hire you, pay you a salary with benefits, plus pay for your education at participating schools or training facilities.
You usually spend 1.5-2 years minimum working for that company after your education is complete.
Some employers will pay for your bachelor’s degree afterwards.
Harper College's Apprenticeship Programs
o Industrial Maintenance Mechanic
o Marketing and Sales Management
o Graphic Arts Print Production
Resources for finding apprenticeships:
How to Become an Apprentice (IDES)
Hire360 (program to help mentor you as you find an apprenticeship)
Punch List (directory of Union Construction Apprenticeships & apprenticeship websites)
Sample career fields:
o Bulldozer and Grader Operators
o Carpenters : Carpenters Apprentice Program Overview
o Roofers
o Painters
o Plumbers
o Iron Workers
o and MANY more!
Determine the type of training needed
Research your future career online (click here for career exploration resources)
Talk to a counselor, career advisor, postsecondary counselor or college representative
Ask your counselor about career pathway courses, workplace learning experiences (internship) and industry certifications you may be able to obtain while still in high school
Apply for a certificate program, apprenticeship or job
Each will have different requirements and deadlines so make sure you keep track
Start training and potentially getting paid for it!