Technical/Trade Options

Feel like a traditional 4-year degree isn't for you?

There are plenty of other paths to take!

Many students earn their degrees at traditional colleges or universities, but others find trade schools or other alternative forms of education more suitable. Trade schools provide career-focused training for in-demand fields, which can be a practical choice for some careers. Additionally, trade schools offer short completion times and inexpensive tuition rates. Trade schools typically omit general education and liberal arts classes. Instead, they offer dedicated training in a specific, skilled vocation. For that reason, some people call these institutions vocational schools — an umbrella term that can encompass career and technical schools as well. Though these terms are sometimes used interchangeably, there are subtle differences.

Trade school education typically leads to careers in skilled trades, whereas technical and career schools focus on generalized practical training and marketable skills. Additionally, programs in technical schools often feature more lecture-style classes than trade schools. Trade schools provide diplomas or certificates upon completion. Depending on the trade, graduates may qualify to enter their professions directly, or they may need to sit for a licensure examination or become an apprentice or journeyman. Most trade school programs offer considerably shorter programs than traditional universities, which allows students to enter their career fields faster.

Trade School vs. Technical College

Both trade schools and technical colleges focus on providing the skills students need to land an entry-level job in their chosen field. General education requirements are either nonexistent or minimal.

There are two major differences between a trade school and a technical college. The first is the career choices available to graduates. For example, if you want to be a cosmetologist or a welder, you might consider a trade school — these programs are not typically offered by technical colleges. Often, the choice between trade school or technical college will be determined by your career choice.

The other significant difference is that technical colleges typically award transferable credits, whereas trade schools do not. If you think you might want to go back to school later to earn a bachelor's degree, you might be better off attending a technical college and earning an associate degree.

Apprenticeships

Apprenticeship is a system in which workers train on-the-job – earning wages and doing productive work – while also taking courses. When someone completes an apprenticeship, they’ll have valuable work experience and a recognized industry credential that allows them to continue in the field and advance their career over time.

Apprenticeships generally last from one to four years, though some last up to six. Apprentices (who must be at least 16 years old) work full-time and must be paid at least minimum wage. As the apprentice advances through the program, his or her wages increase according to a predetermined schedule agreed to between the employer and the apprentice.

Here are just a few of the local programs:

There are a wide range of salaries for these programs

More information can be found at the Buffalo Niagara Trades site.

Debunking the Five Biggest Myths About Working in the Trades - Explore The TradesExplore The Trades explains why a career in the trades is a great fit for everyone.

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Barber

A barber cuts, shampoos, trims and combs a customer’s hair. Barbers often assist customers by appointment or walk-ins when they want to change their hair. Some barbers may also offer shaving services with hot wax and lather treatments. Here are a few of the local training programs:

According to Salary.com the average barber salary in Buffalo, NY is $33,306 as of January 2024 but the range typically falls between $26,813 and $40,110.

Certified Nursing Assistant

A certified nursing assistant, also known as a nurse assistant or CNA, provides health care for clients and patients at home, hospitals, and other facilities under the direction of a nurse. They often help people under their care perform day-to-day tasks and play a vital role in hospitals and other facilities. Here are just a few training programs available locally:

According to Salary.com the average Certified Nursing Assistant salary in Buffalo, NY is $34,920 as of January 2024, but the range typically falls between $29,341 and $38,460.

Certified Personal Trainer

Personal trainers teach their clients proper exercise form, design workout programs to help them reach their goals, provide motivation, and educate their clients on proper nutrition and good health habits. Personal trainer certification programs prepare fitness trainers to work with clients who want to improve their health and fitness. Here are a few of the local training programs available:

According to Salary.com the average personal trainer salary in Buffalo, NY is $41,446 as of January 2024, but the range typically falls between $20,505 and $59,534.

Cosmetology/Esthetics

Cosmetology is the art and science beautifying the hair, nails, and skin. A cosmetologist is an expert in applying cosmetic procedures, therapies, and treatments to beautify one’s outer appearance., and implementing cosmetic treatments to people’s hair, skin, and nails. Specific disciplines in cosmetology include hairstyling (haircutting and coloring), esthetics (skin care), makeup application, nail care (manicures and pedicures), and other beauty treatments. Here are just a few of the many programs available locally:

According to Salary.com the average cosmetologist salary in Buffalo, NY is $28,301 as of January 2024, but the range typically falls between $23,501 and $34,801.

Dental Assistant

The dental assistant is a vital member of the dental healthcare team. Primarily trained to assist the dentist during chair-side procedures, a licensed dental assistant may also perform a variety of supportive services under direct supervision of the dentist. In addition to clinical duties, assistants are also trained in laboratory and administrative procedures. Here are a couple of local training programs:

According to Salary.com the average dental assistant salary in Buffalo, NY is $45,400 as of January 2024, but the range typically falls between $40,588 and $49,730.

Electrical

An electrician is any skilled tradesperson who designs, installs, maintains, and repairs the electrical systems and products used in residential homes, businesses and factories. Electricians work inside or outside buildings to ensure lights, industrial equipment, and appliances operate safely and reliably. Below are 2 local training programs:

According to Salary.com the average salary for an electrician in Buffalo, NY is $54,511 but the range typically falls between $40,811 and $70,775 as of January 2024.

Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)

An emergency medical technician (or EMT) is trained to provide basic emergency medical care and transportation services. They may be the first on the scene to respond and have the basic skills and equipment to assess the situation and provide life-saving measures to the patient. EMTs remain calm during stressful situations and transport individuals to medical facilities as efficiently as possible. Here are some local EMT training programs:

According to Salary.com the average Certified Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) salary in Buffalo, NY is $36,420 as of January 2024, but the range typically falls between $29,179 and $41,300.

Heating, Refrigeration, and Air Conditioning Technician (HVAC)

A qualified HVAC technician is a technician who installs, maintains, and repairs heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems that control the temperature and air quality in buildings. Here are a couple of local training programs:

According to Salary.com the average HVAC mechanic salary in Buffalo, NY is $47,792 as of January 2024, but the range typically falls between $41,259 and $56,298.

Information Technology (IT) Support

An information technology (IT) support technician is a professional who is responsible for providing support and troubleshoots software and hardware problems faced by customers. Here are some local training programs:

According to Salary.com the average Information Technology Support salary in Buffalo, NY is $74,130 as of January 2024, but the salary range typically falls between $57,719 and $83,660.

Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN)

A Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) works under the supervision of doctors and RNs, performing duties such as taking vital signs, collecting samples, administering medication, ensuring patient comfort, and reporting the status of their patients to the nurses. Here are a couple of schools that offer LPN training programs:

According to Salary.com the average Licensed Practical Nurse salary in Buffalo, NY is $51,900 as of January 2024 but the range typically falls between $42,539 and $57,500.

Machining

Machining is a manufacturing term encompassing a broad range of technologies and techniques. It can be roughly defined as the process of removing material from a workpiece using power-driven machine tools to shape it into an intended design. Most metal components and parts require some form of machining during the manufacturing process. Other materials, such as plastics, rubbers, and paper goods, are also commonly fabricated through machining processes. Here are a few of the local training programs available:

According to Salary.com the average machinist salary in Buffalo, NY is $45,981 as of January 2024, but the salary range typically falls between $40,884 and $52,379.

Medical Billing Clerk

A medical billing clerk works at hospitals and clinics to collect payments owed by patients and keep accurate records of patients’ account balances. They generate invoices, ensure that patients receive them, follow up on amounts outstanding, and make arrangements with patients regarding overdue accounts. Here are some of the local training programs available:

According to Salary.com the average Medical Billing Clerk salary in Buffalo, NY is $42,277 as of January 2024 but the range typically falls between $38,279 and $46,490.

Medical Office Assistant

Medical Office Assistants are health professionals who are responsible for various medical office administrative tasks beginning with initial patient contact through final payment. They perform front office functions such as scheduling, communicating (with healthcare professionals, patients and third party payers), handling medical records, and financial management while maintaining compliance with state and federal regulations. Here are a few local training programs:

According to Salary.com the average Medical Front Office Assistant salary in Buffalo, NY is $40,293 as of January 2024, but the salary range typically falls between $31,566 and $45,802.

Phlebotomy

Phlebotomists collect blood for donation or for testing, so the blood can be analyzed in a clinical laboratory. Blood tests are used to diagnose illness, evaluate the effectiveness of medications and determine whether a patient is receiving proper nutrition. Here are a few of the local training programs available:

According to Salary.com the average phlebotomist salary in Buffalo, NY is $38,578 as of January 2024, but the range typically falls between $31,262 and $47,190.

Plumber

Inspects, repairs, installs, modifies, and maintains plumbing fixtures and piping in heating, water and drainage systems. Identifies plumbing and safety problems applicable to the installation and takes necessary corrective action using appropriate parts and tools. Complies with all required safety, building code and inspection requirements. Reads and interprets blueprints, specifications, and other instructions.

According to Salary.com the average plumber salary in Buffalo, NY is, $42,550 as of January 2024, but the range typically falls between $37,136 and $49,752.

Radiologic Technology

Radiology technologists ensure a patient's diagnostic X-rays are performed correctly. They assist doctors by preparing a patient for the exam, explaining the exam procedure to the patient, and positioning the patient correctly so that the body can be appropriately radiographed. Here are some local radiology programs:

According to Salary.com the average Radiologic Technologist I salary in Buffalo, NY is $60,974 as of January 2024, but the range typically falls between $54,334 and $68,650.

Veterinary Technicians

Veterinary technicians – or “vet techs” – assist licensed veterinarians with a wide array of tasks. In many ways, veterinary technicians perform duties for animals that are similar to what a nurse might do for humans. They support veterinarians in the diagnostic and treatment of sick and healthy animals.

Both schools below have training programs:

According to Salary.com the average veterinary assistant salary in Buffalo, NY is $38,270 as of January 2024, but the range typically falls between $26,693 and $45,480.

Welding

A welder's primary duty is to join metal parts together. They may also fix holes in metal objects as well. They work on the metal components of various structures to include pipelines, bridges, power plants, buildings, refineries, automobiles, or ships. Here are some of the local training programs available:

According to Salary.com the average welder salary in Buffalo, NY is, $53,573 as of January 2024, but the range typically falls between $47,653 and $61,183.

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