A previous article discussed three benefits of working in the skilled trades: the plentiful options as to which trade you would like to pursue and practice; the enviable salaries; and the job satisfaction and sense of accomplishment that come with working with your hands. Part two of this article series will go over three more benefits.

Pursuing trade school and apprenticeships is cheaper and faster

Depending on which trade you pursue, the corresponding program at a trade school is likely less expensive than a program at an academic institution. Once you become an apprentice, you actually earn as you learn. Plus, the Canadian federal and provincial governments offer financial incentives in the form of grants during and after your training.

This path is also a faster way to land not just a job, but a career, as trade school programs and apprenticeships tend to be shorter (depending on the trade). The immediate benefit of this is that you can start finding work sooner. The more years of experience you have, the greater the demand will be for your skills.

Opportunities to do more

What does it mean for a job to have growth potential? If a job does not have growth potential, you are stuck doing that job until you quit or retire. This may appeal to some of you, but for others, you would probably like to be able to move up, take on management roles or training roles, for example. The great thing about skilled trades is that the job is what you make of it. If you want to be doing the exact same thing day after day, you can!

And if you want to be move into more adjacent roles, like management or training, you can! If you have an entrepreneurial spirit and some work experience, you may even consider opening your own business. Doesn’t being your own boss sound exciting?

You are unlikely to be replaced by robots any time soon

Job security is no longer a reality of today’s workplace, but people will always need the skills of mechanics, plumbers, and locksmiths, just to name a few. These are jobs that only trained professionals with their specific skillset can do, not robots. (Or at least not yet). Moreover, work requiring tradespeople cannot be outsourced to another country. There is just no way.

It is past time for the stigma attached to skilled trades to die, because given the many benefits to working in this industry, it is a practical option for many people, regardless of background. Consider your own circumstances and interests, the skilled trades may even be your best option.