Vocational training, or trade schools, teaches students the skills and knowledge necessary to a specific career for students wishing to enter that particular field of work at an accelerated pace. These professions are generally based on manual labor and rely on practical or hands-on experience, which can be gained through vocational training.

While some textbook study may still take place, work such as blacksmithing, scuba diving and welding are not easily learned from a book. That’s where an industry expert at a vocational school comes in to show you the ropes firsthand.

Trade Skills
The skills necessary to succeed in a trade career are obviously dependent on the job in question. For example, automotive mechanics rely on analytical thinking as they diagnose mechanical issues and resolve them effectively. Welding requires a strong attention to detail to ensure the proper structural integrity of a project. Animal training requires the ability to connect with animals and a knowledge of how to curb a negative behavior. As you research trade schools and careers, you will become more familiar with the skills necessary to succeed in your particular discipline.

Education in Trade
Careers in trade are highly specialized and rarely found at a liberal arts university. Training or certification programs for these unique jobs are offered through vocational or career technical schools. Many of these schools offer classes for a single discipline, though it is not uncommon for a trade school or community college to offer multiple courses for multiple careers. Community colleges offer the necessary hands-on experience, though they will have larger class sizes. If you prefer a smaller class setting so you can work directly with your instructor more frequently, then a private trade school would be more suitable. Trade programs will generally take a minimum of two years, or the equivalent of an associate’s degree, to complete.

Career Paths
The hands-on skills and experience you will gain in school will help to prepare you for immediate employment in your respective line of work. The marketable skills you learn will translate to more immediate application in the workplace, meaning even while you’re attending trade school you can begin working in your chosen field. A wide range of jobs are available in the trades, including:

• Air Conditioning / Refrigeration
• Animal Grooming
• Animal Training
• Auto Body Technology
• Automotive Technology
• CDL/Commercial Driving
• Construction Management
• Diving - Commercial
• Diving - Scuba
• Electrical Engineering
• Electrician
• Electronic  Engineering
• Electronic Service Technician
• Fire Science
• Gunsmithing
• Heavy Equipment Training
• Home Inspection Training
• Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning (HVAC)
• Industrial Technology
• Marine Mechanics
• Motorcycle Mechanics
• NASCAR Technician
• Plumbing
• Real Estate Appraising
• Watch-Clock Making / Repair
• Welding
• Wind Turbine

Rather than spend several years in college learning about theory and best practices, you can attend trade school and get hands-on training immediately. Whether you’re currently unemployed and need a quick solution to be competitive in the job market or you’re just starting out after high school, the courses offered at community colleges and trade schools will give you the training and competitive edge you need to start working as a professional in a new line of work. Get practical experience now and start working toward your new future in trade.