There are many options available after high school aside from 4-year colleges. Researching your options is the most important thing you can do to find the path that's right for you. Explore whatever options interest you and don't be afraid to ask questions!
Trade and Technical Training
Schools that offer hands-on training where students can typically earn certifications in less than a year. Some technical high schools provide adult education training and certification.
Local institutions:
Worcester Public Schools Night Life
Bay State School of Technology
Benjamin Franklin Institute of Technology
Helpful resources and information:
Directory of Accredited Institutions
http://www.rwm.org/massachusetts/
http://www.thesimpledollar.com/why-you-should-consider-trade-school-instead-of-college/
Apprenticeships
The Construction Institute has created a Directory of Joint Apprenticeship Training Centers in Massachusetts. The programs listed below usually require the applicant to be 18 years old, have a drivers license, and to have earned a High School Diploma or GED.
Here are short descriptions for some of the construction professions that offer apprenticeships from The Construction Institute:
BOILERMAKERS:
Boilermakers are responsible for assembling, erecting, and maintaining boilers, tanks, pressure vessels, heat exchangers, calandrias, pollution control systems, furnaces, condensers, water towers, penstocks an scroll casings using hoisting, rigging, welding equipment, tools and hardware as required by drawings, specifications, and applicable codes and standards.
BRICKLAYERS:
Bricklayers work in varied aspects of building, industrial, commercial and residential construction. Bricklayers build walls, chimneys, fireplaces, and other structures made of brick. They also work with concrete and cinder blocks, tile, marl be, and terra cotta.
CARPENTERS:
Carpenters work in many settings, from the building of small residential homes to the fabrication of the most complex industrial settings. They weld metals, mold plastics, saw wood, form concrete, build scaffolds and layout the tallest buildings. Their tools are hammers, saws, lasers, digital and electric devices, as well as basic organizational skills. Carpenters work in a variety of conditions and have a wide range of skill levels.
ELECTRICAL WORKERS AND TELECOMMUNICATIONS:
Electricians assemble, install, maintain and test electrical equipment and wiring systems in residential, commercial, and industrial settings. They provide new wiring; power and controls to motors, HVAC and other equipment including light fixtures, fire alarms, traffic signals, outdoor lighting, process controls and energy management. In addition, they work with fiber optics, telephone communications, and temperature controls amongst other systems.
ELEVATOR CONSTRUCTORS:
Elevator constructors and mechanics assemble, install, and replace elevators, escalators, dumbwaiters, moving walkways and similar equipment in new and old construction. After installation, members service, maintain, and repair equipment, much of which is electronically controlled. Installers and repairers alike have a thorough knowledge of electronics, electricity, and hydraulics.
For more information on all available programs check out:Apprenticeships in Massachusetts
Military
Gap Year Programs and Information
https://www.gooverseas.com/gap-year
https://www.ciee.org/gap-year-abroad/
https://usagapyearfairs.org/programs/
https://www.teenlife.com/category/gap-year/
http://www.princetonreview.com/study-abroad/college-abroad/gap-year
http://now.tufts.edu/articles/tufts1plus4/gap-year-reimagined
Work
Here are some great tools and resources for those interested in entering the workplace after high school:
https://www.careeronestop.org/
https://www.yourplanforthefuture.org/Ext/YPFC/Home/index.html
Massachusetts Career Information System
Career Connections - an education, job, and training program for qualified young adults ages 17 - 24. Contact Patty Gorman for more information (774) 258 -8237.
HiSet Preparation
Career Exploration
Tuition Assistance
Support Services
Paid Internships
Cover Letter/Resume Writing
Interviewing Skills
Nursing Information
Mental Health Professional Careers
https://www.drugrehab.com/guides/addiction-professional-degrees-careers/