A well-structured approach during high school can significantly enhance a student's preparedness for entering a skilled trade. Here's a suggested to-do list:
Explore Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs: Many high schools offer CTE pathways that provide opportunities to explore various trades and gain initial skills.
Research different trades: Identify trades that align with personal interests and strengths.
Focus on relevant coursework: Excel in math, science (like chemistry and physics), and practical skills courses like shop classes or vocational programs.
Seek firsthand experience:
Summer jobs and volunteering: Gain experience and expose yourself to different work environments.
Job shadowing: Observe professionals in trades of interest to understand daily tasks and responsibilities.
Internships and apprenticeships: Pursue structured programs combining on-the-job training with classroom instruction, potentially leading to certifications or employment.
Network with professionals:
Connect with adults: Talk to family, friends, teachers, or counselors to get introduced to tradespeople and gain insights.
Informational interviews: Learn about career paths and potential challenges and rewards.
Attend career fairs: Explore different fields and potentially connect with employers or trade schools.
Develop essential skills:
Soft skills: Cultivate communication, problem-solving, attention to detail, teamwork, and dependability.
Hard skills: Develop proficiency with tools, blueprint reading, safety procedures, and other trade-specific skills.
Maintain good academic performance: A strong academic record, including a high school diploma or GED, is a basic requirement for most trade schools and apprenticeships.
Prepare a strong resume: Highlight relevant courses, experiences, skills (both hard and soft), leadership roles, awards, and achievements.
Explore trade school options: Research schools based on program offerings, accreditation, reputation, facilities, cost, and job placement services.
Plan for financing: Investigate scholarships, grants, financial aid, and payment plans available for trade school.
By diligently working through these areas, high school students can position themselves for a successful transition into a fulfilling career in the skilled trades.
You may need to apply to be eligible to join the union. Ask about the requirements for joining and whether you need to participate in a formal apprenticeship program. Meet with a representative to learn about dues and how the union will connect you to projects. The union representative will explain the process to you
Construction Industry Service Corporation (CISCO)
Apprenticeship Programs in Northeastern IL
Typically, non-union trades are trained by external formal vocational institutions, like trade schools, or apprenticeships within specific contracting companies. In addition, they may seek training through apprenticeship programs.
Black Diamond Prospect Program
Advantage 30 Advantage Academy
How to become a certified electrician
Step 1: Education & Preparation
High School Diploma/GED: This is a basic requirement for most programs.
Aptitude: You'll often need to pass an algebra and aptitude test.
Consider Trade School: Vocational or technical schools offer foundational knowledge in electrical theory, safety, and codes, potentially counting towards apprenticeship hours.
Step 2: Apprenticeship
Enroll: Find programs through unions (outside work www.ibew196.com IBEW local union 196, inside work www.ibew117.com), trade schools, or non-union contractors. (use online search tools to find programs in the area. See suggested questions below to ask potential training programs)
Complete Hours: Expect 4-5 years (8,000+ hours) of supervised work and several hundred hours of classroom training.
Gain Experience: Work alongside experienced electricians, learning residential, commercial, and industrial systems.
Licensing exam: Register with your local licensing authority, pass the exam (multiple-choice test covering NEC, electrical theory, local codes, and safety, often requiring a 70-75% score). https://www.woodstockil.gov/DocumentCenter/View/3338/Electrical-Exam-Handout-PDF
Suggested Questions to ask potential training programs
Is the school accredited by relevant educational authorities or industry organizations?
What certifications does the program provide and do they match up with what is needed to do the job in Illinois?
What is the curriculum? Does it include the classroom and hands-on training needed for the certification?
What are the prerequisites for enrollment?
What is the total cost of the program?
Are there financial aid options available?
Who are the instructors?
Is there career counseling and job placement assistance, and what is the rate of employment for those finishing the program?
Does the program prepare the student for the licensing exam?
What facilities and tools are available to students?