Which Trades Career Is Right for Me

College isn’t for everyone, but that doesn’t mean you can’t get a quality education that will help you find a career you enjoy. Now, more than ever, we’re noticing a strong need for skilled workers across all trades industries. Find out how Ashworth College can help you find and train for a trades career that’s right for you.

How to find the right trade career for you

America has sometimes taken for granted the importance of trades people, but they keep our country running. Whether its construction workers, mechanics, electricians, or anything in between, these jobs are vital to every aspect of our lives. In recent years, many high school graduates have traditionally foregone trades training in favor of college degrees, but with the increasing costs of four-year colleges and the post-pandemic need for skilled workers, now might be the right time to explore these careers. With all of these opportunities available, you might be asking yourself which trade career is right for you.

It can be a tough question, there are a lot of different types of trades careers, so there’s bound to be something to fit both your interests and strengths if you like engaging, hands-on work. Start by asking yourself what you like and then what you’re good at. From there, it’s a bit easier to break down into more specific fields.

• Automotive. If you have a passion for cars, there are a couple of different options you can pursue. Learn the skills necessary to work with cars and trucks, including engine and transmission work, ventilation systems, and even heavy truck mechanics, culminating in a career diploma or career certificate, depending upon which program you choose.
• Automotive Automatic Transmissions. Earn a career certificate learning to maintain and repair common automatic transmissions found in cars and trucks.
• Automotive Engine Performance. Expand your knowledge by learning the advanced skills needed to diagnose and repair auto ignitions, fuel, and pollution-control systems.
• Automotive HVAC. Explore the specifics of maintaining and repairing heating, cooling, and ventilation systems in cars and trucks.
• Automotive Technician. If you’re unsure of a specific direction, but want to work with cars, this career diploma can help you prepare for entry-level jobs at auto body shops and dealerships.
• Diesel Mechanic. If you love working with engines but want to work with heavy trucks, this career diploma can help you learn how to troubleshoot, repair, and basic diesel engine operations.
• Home and Business. If cars aren’t your thing, there are many trades where you can work directly with and in homes and businesses.
• Plumbing. Learn to understand the basics of materials, tools, and processes to work in both residential and light commercial plumbing.
• Locksmithing. Protect homes and businesses by learning the fundamentals of installing modern security hardware, how to respond to emergencies, and dealing with high-tech security systems.
• Home Inspection. Specialize your knowledge and skills to gain an in-depth understanding of local and national building codes and ordinances and zoning regulations to ensure homes meet the standard prior to buying.
• Heating and Air Conditioning. HVAC systems are needed in all commercial and residential buildings, so you’ll have the option to work in either or both sectors. You’ll learn what it takes to install, maintain, repair, and replace them in preparation for certification.
• Residential Electrician. Learn the theories and practices behind a wide range of installation tools and procedures aligning with the National Electric Code (NEC) for entry-level employment.
• Carpentry. Take your love for DIY projects and learn the materials, tools, and processes needed to become a construction professional for both residential and commercial industries.

Or, if you’re looking for a trades career that doesn’t follow the traditional path and you happen to love dogs, a Dog Obedience Career Diploma could be the perfect for you. You can learn the methods and equipment dog trainers use and how to implement them for different breed types and temperaments.

Why choose a career in the trades

Because people have shied away from the trades in the past few decades, many question why they should enter the field. Training for the trades not only costs less, but it takes much less time to earn the credentials needed to begin entry-level work. Further, according to ZipRecruiter, the average national trade salary is $57,204, making it a lucrative option for those looking for a quick return on investment. In addition, the American Jobs Act is projected to create an even greater need for skilled laborers, which means there’s even more potential for job availability for qualified workers.

Start training with Ashworth

Ashworth can help you gain the necessary skills to join a growing workforce, all from the convenience of your home and on a self-paced schedule that works for you. If you’re ready to kickstart a trades career you’re passionate about, reach out to an Admissions Advisor at .