Explore Trade School and Careers
Become an Auto Mechanic
If you have a passion for cars and enjoy solving mechanical problems, a career as an auto mechanic might be the perfect fit for you. Auto mechanics are responsible for diagnosing, repairing, and maintaining vehicles to ensure they run smoothly and safely. Education programs typically include hands-on training in automotive technology, covering areas such as engine repair, brake systems, and electrical diagnostics. Certifications like ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) can enhance your credentials and job prospects.
Many trade schools and community colleges offer programs that can be completed in as little as six months to two years. These programs combine classroom instruction with practical experience, preparing you for entry-level positions in the automotive industry.
Learn AutoCAD
Enhance your design and drafting skills with AutoCAD training. AutoCAD is a leading software used by architects, engineers, and construction professionals for creating precise 2D and 3D drawings. Training programs provide you with the technical skills needed to produce detailed designs and improve your career prospects in various industries.
AutoCAD courses are available at many technical schools and can range from short-term certificates to part of a degree program. Gaining proficiency in AutoCAD can open doors to careers in architecture, engineering, interior design, and more.
Get Certified in Aviation Maintenance
If you are fascinated by airplanes and how they work, a career in aviation maintenance could be rewarding. Aviation maintenance professionals are responsible for inspecting, repairing, and maintaining aircraft to ensure safety and compliance with regulations. Training programs provide in-depth knowledge of aircraft systems, diagnostics, and repair techniques.
Most aviation maintenance programs are offered at specialized schools and can take 18 to 24 months to complete. Graduates often seek certification from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to become licensed aircraft mechanics, opening up opportunities in commercial airlines, private aviation companies, and government agencies.
Become a Barber
If you have a flair for style and enjoy working with people, becoming a barber might be an excellent career choice. Barbers specialize in cutting, trimming, and styling hair, as well as providing grooming services like shaving and beard maintenance. Barbering programs teach you the techniques and skills needed to excel in this profession.
Barber schools typically offer programs that can be completed in less than a year. Upon completion, you’ll need to obtain a state license to practice professionally. A career as a barber offers flexibility, creative expression, and the opportunity to build lasting client relationships.
Become a Certified Bookkeeper
Enhance your accounting skills and career prospects by obtaining a bookkeeping certification. Bookkeepers play a crucial role in maintaining financial records, tracking transactions, and ensuring accuracy in financial reporting. Certification programs provide training in accounting principles, financial statements, and accounting software.
Many community colleges and online programs offer bookkeeping courses that prepare you for certification exams like the Certified Bookkeeper (CB) designation from the American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers (AIPB). Earning a certification can validate your expertise and open doors to employment in various industries.
Become a Carpenter
If you enjoy working with your hands and have an eye for detail, a career in carpentry might be a great fit. Carpenters build, install, and repair structures made of wood and other materials, working on projects ranging from residential homes to commercial buildings. Training programs teach you skills in blueprint reading, framing, and finishing techniques.
Carpentry programs are often available through trade schools and apprenticeships. These programs combine classroom instruction with on-the-job training, allowing you to gain practical experience while learning the trade. A career in carpentry offers opportunities for specialization and advancement in the construction industry.
Become a CNC Machinist
If you are interested in precision manufacturing and technology, becoming a CNC machinist could be an excellent career path. CNC machinists operate computer numerical control (CNC) machines to produce parts and tools with high precision. Training programs teach you how to read technical drawings, program CNC machines, and understand machining processes.
Many technical schools offer CNC machining programs that can be completed in less than a year. With hands-on training and instruction in the latest technologies, you can enter a field that is essential to industries like aerospace, automotive, and manufacturing.
Become a Collision Repair Technician
If you have a passion for cars and enjoy restoring them to their original condition, a career as a collision repair technician might be ideal. Collision repair technicians fix damage from accidents, including bodywork, painting, and refinishing vehicles. Training programs provide hands-on experience in auto body repair techniques and the use of specialized tools.
Vocational schools and community colleges offer programs in collision repair that can be completed in one to two years. Earning certifications, such as those from the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE), can enhance your credentials and job prospects in the automotive industry.
Learn Construction Trades
Embark on a rewarding career in the construction trades, where you can specialize in areas like carpentry, electrical work, plumbing, or masonry. Construction professionals are essential to building and maintaining the infrastructure of our society. Training programs offer the technical skills and safety knowledge required to excel in this field.
Trade schools and apprenticeships provide practical, hands-on training that prepares you for work on construction sites. With opportunities for growth and specialization, a career in the construction trades can be both fulfilling and lucrative.
Become a Court Reporter
If you have excellent listening skills and attention to detail, consider a career as a court reporter. Court reporters create verbatim transcripts of legal proceedings, meetings, and other events. Training programs teach you stenography techniques, legal terminology, and transcription skills.
Court reporting programs are offered at community colleges and specialized institutions and typically take around two years to complete. Certification and licensure may be required, depending on your state. This career offers opportunities in legal settings, broadcasting, and real-time captioning services.
Become a Dog Groomer
If you love animals and have a creative touch, becoming a dog groomer could be a perfect career. Dog groomers provide grooming services that enhance the appearance and hygiene of pets. Training programs teach you about animal handling, grooming techniques, and pet health.
Many vocational schools offer grooming programs that can be completed in a few months. With hands-on experience, you can start working in grooming salons, veterinary clinics, or even start your own business, providing services to pet owners in your community.
Become a Dog Trainer
If you have a passion for working with dogs and understanding animal behavior, a career as a dog trainer might be for you. Dog trainers teach dogs obedience, behavior modification, and specific skills. Training programs cover topics like canine psychology, training techniques, and communication with both dogs and their owners.
Certification programs are available through organizations like the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT). Gaining experience through internships or assistant positions can also help you establish a successful career helping pets and their owners.
Become a EKG Technician
If you’re interested in healthcare and patient care, becoming an EKG technician is a valuable entry point into the medical field. EKG technicians operate equipment that measures heart activity, helping physicians diagnose cardiovascular conditions. Training programs teach you how to perform EKGs, understand medical terminology, and provide patient care.
EKG technician programs can be completed in a few months and are offered by many vocational schools and community colleges. Certification from organizations like the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) can enhance your employment opportunities in hospitals, clinics, and diagnostic labs.
Become a Electrician
If you have a knack for problem-solving and an interest in electrical systems, a career as an electrician might be ideal. Electricians install, maintain, and repair electrical systems in homes, businesses, and industrial settings. Training programs combine classroom instruction with hands-on experience in electrical theory, code requirements, and safety practices.
Becoming a licensed electrician typically involves completing an apprenticeship, which can last four to five years. Apprenticeships offer paid on-the-job training under the supervision of experienced electricians. With a high demand for skilled electricians, this career offers stability and opportunities for advancement.
Become a Flooring Installer
If you have an eye for detail and enjoy hands-on work, consider a career as a flooring installer. Flooring installers lay and finish carpet, wood, vinyl, and tile floors in residential and commercial settings. Training programs teach you about different flooring materials, installation techniques, and safety practices.
Vocational schools and apprenticeships offer programs that provide practical training in flooring installation. With experience, you can specialize in certain types of flooring or advance to supervisory positions. This career offers the satisfaction of transforming spaces and working in a variety of settings.
Become a Floral Designer
Express your creativity and love for plants by pursuing a career in floral design. Floral designers create arrangements for events, retail shops, and special occasions. Training programs teach you about flower care, design principles, and business practices in the floral industry.
Floral design courses are available at community colleges, vocational schools, and through professional organizations. With a combination of artistic skill and horticultural knowledge, you can build a fulfilling career bringing beauty into people’s lives.
Become a Graphic Designer
If you have a passion for visual communication and creativity, a career in graphic design might be perfect for you. Graphic designers create visual content for branding, advertising, and digital media. Training programs teach you design principles, software proficiency, and project management skills.
Graphic design programs are offered at various levels, from certificates to bachelor’s degrees. With a strong portfolio and technical skills, you can pursue opportunities in advertising agencies, design firms, or as a freelance designer.
Become a Hair Stylist
If you enjoy fashion, creativity, and working with people, becoming a hair stylist could be an excellent career choice. Hair stylists cut, color, and style hair, helping clients look and feel their best. Training programs teach you cutting techniques, coloring, and customer service skills.
Cosmetology schools offer hair stylist programs that typically take about a year to complete. After completing your education, you’ll need to pass a state licensing exam. A career as a hair stylist offers flexibility, creativity, and the opportunity to build lasting client relationships.
Become a Hemodialysis Technician
If you are interested in healthcare and patient care, becoming a hemodialysis technician might be a rewarding career. Hemodialysis technicians operate machines that remove waste and excess fluids from the blood of patients with kidney failure. Training programs teach you about dialysis procedures, patient care, and medical equipment.
Training programs are offered by vocational schools and hospitals and can be completed in a few months. Certification may be required, depending on your state. Working as a hemodialysis technician allows you to make a significant impact on patients’ lives.
Become a Home Health Aide
If you have a compassionate nature and want to help others, a career as a home health aide might be suitable. Home health aides provide essential care to patients in their homes, assisting with daily activities and monitoring health conditions. Training programs teach you about patient care, nutrition, and basic medical procedures.
Home health aide training can often be completed in a few weeks and is offered by vocational schools and healthcare organizations. Certification requirements vary by state. This career offers the opportunity to provide meaningful support to individuals in need.
Become a Home Inspector
If you have an eye for detail and an interest in construction, consider a career as a home inspector. Home inspectors assess the condition of residential properties, identifying potential issues for buyers and sellers. Training programs teach you about building systems, inspection techniques, and reporting.
Many community colleges and online programs offer home inspection courses. Licensing requirements vary by state, and certification from organizations like the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) can enhance credibility. A career as a home inspector offers flexibility and the chance to help people make informed decisions.
Become an HVAC-R Technician
If you’re interested in technology and enjoy hands-on work, a career in HVAC-R (Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration) might be a good fit. HVAC-R technicians install, maintain, and repair climate control systems in residential and commercial settings. Training programs teach you about system design, diagnostics, and energy efficiency.
HVAC-R programs are available at trade schools and can be completed in six months to two years. Certification from organizations like NATE (North American Technician Excellence) can improve job prospects. This career offers strong demand and opportunities for advancement.
Become an Interior Designer
If you have a creative eye and a passion for designing spaces, a career in interior design could be fulfilling. Interior designers plan and decorate indoor spaces to make them functional and aesthetically pleasing. Training programs teach you design principles, space planning, and software skills.
Interior design programs range from certificates to bachelor’s degrees and are offered by art schools and universities. Professional certification, such as the National Council for Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ), may be required. This career allows you to transform spaces and bring clients’ visions to life.
Become a Life Coach
If you are passionate about helping others achieve their goals, becoming a life coach might be the right path. Life coaches work with clients to identify personal and professional goals, overcome obstacles, and develop action plans. Training programs teach you coaching techniques, communication skills, and business practices.
Life coach certification programs are available online and through coaching organizations. Earning credentials from the International Coach Federation (ICF) can enhance credibility. This career offers flexibility and the opportunity to make a positive impact on others’ lives.
Become a Maintenance Technician
If you enjoy troubleshooting and fixing equipment, a career as a maintenance technician could be ideal. Maintenance technicians ensure that machinery and equipment operate efficiently in various settings like manufacturing plants, commercial buildings, and hospitals. Training programs teach you mechanical skills, electrical systems, and preventive maintenance techniques.
Vocational schools offer maintenance technician programs that can be completed in less than a year. With hands-on training, you can enter a field that is essential to many industries and offers opportunities for advancement.
Become a Massage Therapist
If you are interested in holistic health and helping others relax and heal, becoming a massage therapist might be a great fit. Massage therapists use touch to manipulate muscles and soft tissues, promoting wellness and relaxation. Training programs teach you massage techniques, anatomy, and ethics.
Massage therapy programs are offered by vocational schools and can typically be completed in about a year. After completing your education, you’ll need to obtain a state license. A career in massage therapy offers flexibility and the chance to work in various settings, including spas, clinics, and private practice.
Become an Optician
If you have an interest in eye care and customer service, consider becoming an optician. Opticians help fit eyeglasses and contact lenses, working closely with optometrists and ophthalmologists. Training programs teach you about optical principles, lens technology, and patient care.
Opticianry programs are available at community colleges and can take one to two years to complete. Licensure requirements vary by state, and certification from the American Board of Opticianry (ABO) can enhance job prospects. This career offers the opportunity to help people see better and improve their quality of life.
Become a Paralegal
If you are interested in law and have strong organizational skills, a career as a paralegal might be suitable. Paralegals assist lawyers by conducting research, drafting documents, and organizing case files. Training programs teach you about legal procedures, research methods, and ethics.
Paralegal programs are offered at the certificate, associate, and bachelor’s degree levels. Completing an American Bar Association (ABA)-approved program can enhance your credentials. A career as a paralegal offers the opportunity to work in law firms, corporate legal departments, and government agencies.
Become a Patient Care Tech
If you are compassionate and interested in healthcare, becoming a Patient Care Technician (PCT) could be a rewarding career. PCTs provide direct patient care under the supervision of nursing staff, assisting with daily activities and monitoring vital signs. Training programs teach you basic nursing skills, phlebotomy, and EKG monitoring.
PCT programs are offered by vocational schools and can be completed in a few months. Certification may be required by employers. This career provides a valuable role in patient care and can be a stepping stone to advanced nursing positions.
Become a Personal Trainer
If you have a passion for fitness and helping others achieve their health goals, a career as a personal trainer might be perfect. Personal trainers design and implement fitness programs for clients, providing motivation and expertise. Training programs teach you about exercise science, nutrition, and client assessment.
Certification is typically required and can be obtained from organizations like the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) or the American Council on Exercise (ACE). A career as a personal trainer offers flexibility and the opportunity to make a positive impact on clients’ lives.
Become a Physical Therapy Assistant
If you are interested in helping patients recover from injuries and improve mobility, consider becoming a physical therapy assistant (PTA). PTAs work under the supervision of physical therapists to implement treatment plans. Training programs teach you about therapeutic exercises, patient care, and anatomy.
Associate degree programs for PTAs are offered at community colleges and take about two years to complete. Licensure or certification is required in most states. This career offers the opportunity to work in various healthcare settings, helping patients regain their independence.
Become a Plumber
If you enjoy problem-solving and working with your hands, a career as a plumber might be a great fit. Plumbers install and repair pipes and fixtures in residential, commercial, and industrial settings. Training programs teach you about plumbing systems, codes, and safety practices.
Becoming a plumber typically involves completing an apprenticeship, which combines paid on-the-job training with classroom instruction. Apprenticeships can last four to five years. With high demand for skilled plumbers, this career offers job security and opportunities for advancement.
Become a Recovery Coach
If you are passionate about supporting individuals overcoming addiction, becoming a recovery coach could be fulfilling. Recovery coaches provide guidance and encouragement to people in recovery, helping them navigate challenges and set goals. Training programs teach you about addiction, communication skills, and ethical considerations.
Certification programs are available through organizations like the International Association of Recovery Coaches (IARC). This career allows you to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
Become a Sonographer
If you are interested in healthcare technology and patient care, a career in sonography might be ideal. Sonographers, also known as ultrasound technicians, use imaging equipment to create images of internal body structures. Training programs teach you about anatomy, patient care, and operating ultrasound equipment.
Sonography programs are offered at the certificate and associate degree levels and typically take one to two years to complete. Certification from organizations like the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS) is often required. This career offers the opportunity to work in hospitals, clinics, and diagnostic labs.
Become a Travel Agent
If you have a passion for travel and enjoy planning trips, consider a career as a travel agent. Travel agents assist clients in planning vacations, business trips, and other travel arrangements. Training programs teach you about destinations, booking systems, and customer service.
Many vocational schools offer travel agent programs that can be completed in a few months. Certification from organizations like The Travel Institute can enhance credibility. This career offers the opportunity to help others experience the joy of travel.
Become a Vet Tech
If you love animals and are interested in veterinary medicine, becoming a veterinary technician might be a great choice. Vet techs assist veterinarians with medical procedures, lab tests, and patient care. Training programs teach you about animal anatomy, pharmacology, and clinical procedures.
Associate degree programs for vet techs typically take two years to complete and are offered at community colleges. Certification and licensure requirements vary by state. This career allows you to make a difference in the health and well-being of animals.
Become a Veterinary Assistant
If you are passionate about animal care but prefer a shorter training period, becoming a veterinary assistant might be suitable. Veterinary assistants support veterinarians and vet techs with animal care, administrative tasks, and maintaining clinic cleanliness. Training programs teach you basic animal care, handling, and office procedures.
Veterinary assistant programs can be completed in less than a year and are offered by vocational schools. Certification is available through organizations like the National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America (NAVTA). This career offers the opportunity to work with animals and gain experience in a veterinary setting.
Become a Welder
If you enjoy working with metal and have an interest in fabrication, a career in welding might be ideal. Welders join metal parts together using various welding techniques, working in industries like construction, manufacturing, and shipbuilding. Training programs teach you welding methods, blueprint reading, and safety practices.
Welding programs are offered at trade schools and can be completed in a few months to two years. Certification from organizations like the American Welding Society (AWS) can enhance job prospects. This career offers strong demand and opportunities for specialization.