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SKILLED TRADE PATHWAYS

Pursuing a career in the skilled trades offers several pathways, whether you're straight out of high school or looking to gain experience while earning a paycheck. Each pathway provides a combination of education, training, and certification, guiding you to a professional career. Whether you attend a technical high school, a specialized trade school, or dive straight into on-the-job training, all paths lead to the opportunity to become a certified tradesperson with valuable skills in high demand. 

Technical High School

To embark on the skilled trade pathway, start by enrolling in a technical high school where you'll receive foundational classroom instruction and hands-on training in your trade. Upon graduation, you'll enter an apprenticeship program, which combines paid, on-the-job training with advanced coursework. Apprenticeships typically last 2 to 4 years. After completing your apprenticeship, you’ll need to pass a certification exam to become licensed in your field. After that, you can work independently as a professional tradesperson, with opportunities to grow into higher positions or even start your own business.

1

Technical High School

  • Duration: 3-4 years

  • Typically free for public school students

  • Students earn required hours through:

    • Classroom instruction

    • Hands-on learning with work-based opportunities from employers

2

Apprenticeship

  • Duration: 2-5 years

  • Typically paid (earn while you learn)

  • Often leads to journey-level worker status

3

Certification

  • Duration: Usually 3-5 years

  • Taken at the end of apprenticeships

  • Certification exam cost: Typically $100 - $300

For example, in the State of Connecticut, where BigHire is headquartered, there are 17 technical high schools. Students complete an exploratory program in ninth grade and a career-focused curriculum in grades 10-12. Students are required to complete 200 hours of classroom instruction and 180 hours of hands-on work through the state’s Work Based Learning program. Upon graduation, students will receive a high school diploma and a certificate in their Career Technical Education area and are considered pre-apprentices.  

Trade School (Vocational or Technical School)

To follow this pathway, first enroll in a trade school where you'll receive training in a specific field. Most trade schools offer shorter programs, typically lasting 6 months to 2 years. After completion, you'll start an apprenticeship, gaining paid, hands-on experience while working alongside professionals. During your apprenticeship, you'll also complete additional coursework. Once you've fulfilled the apprenticeship requirements, you'll need to pass a certification exam to become a licensed trades professional, allowing you to work independently in your chosen field.

1

Trade School

  • Duration: 6 months - 2 years

  • Cost: $1,000 to $15,000 (can be reduced with scholarships and other opportunities)

  • Graduates earn:

    • Diploma

    • Certification

    • Associate degree in their relevant trade

2

Apprenticeship

  • Duration: 2-5 years

  • Earn while you learn

  • Apprenticeships may be shorter for trade school graduates

3

Certification

  • Earned at the end of an apprenticeship

  • Exam cost: $100 - $300

On-The-Job Training

To pursue the on-the-job training pathway, you’ll start by finding an entry-level position with an employer who offers training in your trade. As you work, you'll receive hands-on experience and mentorship from skilled professionals, allowing you to learn the trade directly on-site. After gaining sufficient experience (which can vary by trade and employer), you'll need to take and pass a certification exam to become licensed in your field. Once certified, you'll be recognized as a qualified trades professional, able to work independently or advance in your career.

1

On-The-Job Training

  • Duration varies by employer

  • Typically involves paid training

  • Can lead directly to job opportunities through industry connections

2

Certification

  • Path to certification may be longer due to lack of formal education

  • Certification can be obtained after completing a certain number of work hours

As you explore your options for a career in the skilled trades, remember that choosing the right path depends on your interests, learning style, and long-term goals. For more detailed information on each of these pathways, be sure to visit our Resources page, where you’ll find valuable guidance on apprenticeships, certification requirements, and job opportunities. New opportunities and programs are continually becoming available, so check back often to stay updated and take the next step toward your future as a skilled trades professional.

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