Find your way to a (high-paying) trade job

Podcast Summary

• Exploring Skilled Trades as an Alternative to College Education: The construction industry offers high-paying, fulfilling careers through skilled trades, challenging the notion that a college degree is the only path to a good-paying job.

  There are high-paying job opportunities outside of a traditional four-year college degree. Isis Harris' story is a testament to this, as she shares her journey from trying various jobs after high school to discovering her passion and career as an electrician. The construction industry offered her a path to a fulfilling and well-compensated career. This episode of NPR's Life Kit explores the skilled trades as an alternative to a college education and provides resources and tools for those interested in pursuing this route. It's essential to challenge the common belief that a college degree is the only way to secure a good-paying job. Whole Foods Market, a sponsor of NPR, encourages hosting celebratory brunches for less with their wallet-friendly finds like cold smoked Atlantic salmon, mini quiches, organic everything bagels, and more.

• Exploring the Value of Skilled Labor Jobs: Skilled labor jobs offer good pay and long-term careers without a bachelor's degree. Examples include electricians, plumbers, and wind turbine technicians with median salaries above $50,000. Other jobs like air traffic controllers, airline pilots, construction managers, aircraft mechanics, and firefighters also provide lucrative opportunities.

  There are numerous jobs available that don't require a bachelor's degree and offer good pay. Mike Rowe, known for his Discovery TV show "Dirty Jobs," explored various jobs across the US and highlighted the importance of recognizing the value of labor often done out of sight. Economist Ryan Farrell from the Bureau of Labor Statistics emphasizes the opportunities for individuals with only a high school diploma. Skilled trades like electricians, plumbers, and wind turbine technicians offer median salaries above $50,000 and can lead to long-term, in-demand careers. For instance, an air traffic controller with an associate's degree earns a median salary of $122,000. Other lucrative jobs include construction managers, aircraft mechanics, and firefighters. Salaries can vary depending on location.

• Exploring Career Paths Beyond a Four-Year College Degree: The trades offer financial independence and valuable skills, with job opportunities in technology, green energy, and healthcare sectors. Don't overlook the importance of skilled labor and multiple career options upon graduating high school.

  There are various career paths to explore beyond a four-year college degree, and the trades should not be overlooked. Isis Harris emphasizes the importance of financial independence through working in the trades. The economy presents job opportunities in technology, green energy, and healthcare sectors, which will require skilled labor in the coming years. Carrie Akins, the director for career and technology education, advocates for having multiple options upon graduating high school, as many jobs go unfilled due to a lack of qualified candidates. The stigma surrounding trades as less prestigious compared to college-educated careers is a misconception. In reality, both paths offer valuable skills and opportunities. Mike Rowe emphasizes that the value judgment imposed on education based on the length or type is unfair, and it's essential to consider the specific career goals and reasons for pursuing a particular educational path.

• The Importance of Education and Career Goals: Recognize the value of education and training, consider career goals, and explore accessible opportunities through community colleges to enhance personal growth and success.

  Having a clear career goal and the right education or training are crucial for personal growth and success in today's economy. While a college degree may not be the only path, it's essential to recognize the value of education and training in various fields, including the skilled trades. Community colleges offer accessible and job-market-aligned opportunities through associate's degrees, certificates, and vocational programs. Additionally, individuals should reflect on their strengths, interests, and aspirations to determine their career goals and the lifestyle they desire. As Michael Torrance, the president of Motlow State Community College, suggests, considering broader questions about how one wants to live their life can provide valuable perspective during the decision-making process. Ultimately, the journey to finding one's career path may not be linear, but having a strong support system and a commitment to personal growth can help guide the way.

• Identify your interests and strengths for lifelong learning and career growth: Find opportunities that align with your interests and strengths for continuous learning and career advancement, using tools like the O Net interest profile to explore potential paths.

  Learning and skill development can happen anywhere throughout your lifetime, not just in traditional educational settings. It's important to identify what kind of work you enjoy and are good at, whether it be physical or mental, and seek opportunities that align with those interests and strengths. Instead of focusing solely on finding your passion and waiting for the perfect job to come along, look for opportunities where you can excel and develop a love for the work over time. Tools like the O Net interest profile can help you identify potential career paths based on your interests and preferred tasks. Remember, it's more important to find a job that fits your skills and interests than the other way around. As Isis Harris discovered, the electrical industry provided her with the opportunity to use both her body and mind, and the sense of accomplishment that comes from creating something tangible every day. So, don't limit yourself to traditional educational paths or wait for your passion to find you. Instead, seek out opportunities that align with your strengths and interests and bring your passion with you.

• Exploring Different Ways to Enter the Trades: Research various entry methods, consider costs, persist, and find a trade that matches interests and goals for diverse opportunities and good salaries.

  There are various ways to enter the trades, including apprenticeships, community college programs, and trade schools. It's essential to research and consider the costs, as financial aid and scholarships are available. Persistence is key, as success may not come right away. Careers in the trades can lead to diverse opportunities, and skills learned can be applied to various jobs throughout one's life. Isis Harris, for example, started her construction career at age 38 and is still learning and growing. Remember, age doesn't determine your ability to succeed in the trades. Additionally, many jobs in the trades offer good salaries and are in high demand. It's essential to explore the numerous opportunities available and find the one that best suits your interests and goals.

• Reflect on your goals and seek resources to achieve them: Consider strengths, interests, and available resources to plan for personal growth. Trusted friends can help make social events more enjoyable.

  It's important to reflect on who you want to be and make a plan to achieve your goals. Consider your strengths, interests, and what you're good at. Seek out programs or resources that can help you grow. Remember, the path to success is not always linear. Additionally, consider designating a trusted friend as the first arrival to your parties to help break the ice and make the experience more enjoyable for everyone involved. This episode of Life Kit featured insights from Carrie Akins, Jonathan Ruiz Cervantes, Ryan Farrell, Isis Harris, Genevieve Morgan, Mike Rowe, Britta Sparks, and Danny Tejada, among others. For more Life Kit episodes, visit lifekit.npr.org. This episode was produced by Andy Tagle, with Mariel Segarra as the host. Engineering support came from Neil Tivald. Alyssa Nadworny signed off. NPR sponsors included Charles Schwab's Choiceology podcast and Lisa in collaboration with West Elm. Listen to Embedded for in-depth documentary series.