Trades people are skilled individuals that specialize in a specific trade. Tradesmen typically have on-the-work experience, usually formal vocational training, and most often a combination of knowledge and tradeshow experience. There are many types of tradesmen including general builders, plumbers, painters, automobile technicians, electricians, roofers, etc. There are also sub-types such as systems integrators, productivity maximizers, and process optimizers. Tradesmen can also specialize in a particular area of trade such as plumbing, metalwork, and so forth.
What Are The Career Options For Trades People?
There are many career options for trades people. The most common specializations for trades people are skilled laborers, general contractors, building contractors and engineer-general. Other options for trades people are business development consultants, insurance claim consultants, quality specialists, sales representatives, and technical consultants. There are also other jobs such as administrative assistant, insurance specialist, healthcare professional, and financial advisor. Many trades people start their own businesses after getting some first-hand experience on the field.
Most trades people start out in their local area but there are some that have made their home in other regions or countries. Some of the more popular trade careers are HVAC contractors, air conditioning installers, plumbing contractors, metalwork specialists, painting contractors, electrical contractors, plumbers, and heating and cooling contractors. There are also other occupational paths that focus on particular trades such as machinist, automotive technician, sheet metalworker, and woodworker. . These include carpet builders, upholstery craft, cabinet makers, furniture builders, glassblowers, leatherworkers, carpenters, painting contractors, and cabinetmakers.
Many trades people find employment through their union or trade association. This is often a great career option because they will have established relationships with management and the other workers. Working through an agency makes it easier for them to obtain benefits and raises.
However, there are some disadvantages to the employment route for skilled trades people. The main disadvantage is that once a person has become an employee they are tied to the job unless they can find another job. Another drawback is that tradespeople often do not receive the same benefits as employees. These usually include insurance, paid vacation days, paid holidays, and paid sick days. Because many tradespeople are independent contractors, they are not covered by an employer’s insurance which can limit the benefits that they receive.
However, for those who wish to be self-employed and have the skills, but lack the proper education, there are vocational or trade schools. Vocational schools are not accredited by the Department of Education, but they are well-established institutions that offer courses in a variety of fields. They provide both classroom instruction and practical skills on the job. Tradespeople who complete their training at vocational schools are often able to find work immediately and continue their education at a later date. For these individuals, the benefits of being a tradesperson are definitely worth the time and effort it takes to find a good college and enroll in a vocational course.
Final Words
If you are making a career choice at the moment, it is important to know about the advantages and disadvantages in order to make an informed decision. Asking around experienced trades people might also be quite useful, as they will share with you their obstacles and suggest the best pathway for your circumstances.
