LOOKING FOR A CAREER IN THE TRADES OR A LITTLE OR NO COLLEGE PATH?

There are so many different paths to a career and none of them is any better than another. The important thing is finding the right path for YOU! Keep reading to explore different options available for you. If you have questions about what you see or would like more help exploring what the trades have to offer you, contact your PLHS counselor or stop by the Counseling Center.

This list is not inclusive and we are not endorsing any program. We are simply sharing potential options. We cannot guarantee the accuracy of the information as changes can be made to programs and we do not continually return to websites to update resources unless new information is shared with us.

As with any opportunity, you need to make sure this is a path forward for you. Ask for data on program completion rates, percent who pass any required credentials exams, career placement (what percent of students are placed with an employer and for which employers, pay rate, etc.), full costs, etc. They are recruiting you but you are also 'interviewing' them and the opportunity!

Minimum Qualifications and Application Procedures

• All applicants shall be at least eighteen (18) years of age.
• All applicants shall present a Social Security Card issued by the Social Security Administration.
• All applicants must provide documentation that establishes both identity and employment authorization as required by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services, Form I-9.
• All applicants shall be physically capable of performing the essential functions of the apprenticeship program without posing a direct threat to the health and safety to the individual or others.

For more information, click HERE.

Are you thinking of heading straight to a career? Roloff Construction provides their employees with training and development opportunities while working in the trades. They offer positions as general laborers, pipelayers, concrete finishers, heavy equipment operators, truck drivers, mechanics, welders, construction technology specialist, estimators, project managers, and more. If you would like to learn more, click HERE or contact Pat McGahan at patm@rolooffinc.com.

The CTI offers on-the-job training. Work with your hands, learn about the unique materials applied throughout the building industry, and get comfortable using a variety of tools and techniques to safely and efficiently produce high-quality work. The skills you learn at Carpenters Training Institute can be applied on job sites across the Midwest.

The classroom portion of the program will provide you with the knowledge and understanding needed to read blueprints and layouts, estimate time and materials, judge load capacities, and ensure the safety of everyone on the job site.

There’s no cost to attend Carpenters Training Institute. A small portion of every member’s benefits pays for the training program as a whole, and every member’s benefits help pay for facilities, materials, and instructor wages. You’ll also receive a pension, insurance, and retirement savings while developing your craft.

AVERAGE EARNINGS

Between years one and four, apprentices can earn an average of*:

• Year 1: $33,436 – $46,363
• Year 2: $45,600 – $63,200
• Year 3: $51,666 – $71,646
• Year 4: $57,748 – $80,077
• Journeyperson: $60,789 – $ 84,295
• Foreman: $72,485 – $97,010
• Superintendent: $98,100 – $131,018

*Wages vary by area. Contact the local training center for detailed wage estimate.

For more information, click HERE.

The Construction Wireman program is a four-year, entry-level program that consists of five levels. A placement test will be given if an applicant has the prior verifiable experience: check stubs, W-2s, tax forms, or a letter from previous contractors. Starting pay for a CW-1 is $14.00 per hour. Pay increases as you advance up to the level of CW-5. The pay for a CW-5 is $22.00 per hour. Advancement is achieved by: completing the required coursework; working the required number of hours; and taking a test to show skill improvement. At any time, a person may choose to stay at their current pay period. After completing all five levels, you may enter into the Construction Electrician program.

The Construction Electrician program is a three-year program intended for electrical workers with more than 8000 hours (about four years) of verifiable experience. A placement test will be given when the applicant has provided verifiable experience: check stubs, W-2s, tax forms, or a letter from previous contractors. The starting pay for a CE-1 is $26.00. Pay increases with advancement and can reach up to $32.00 per hour. Once the person receives a Journeymen’s license from the States of Nebraska and Iowa and successfully completes the final test of the Craft Certification, the Construction Electrician will become eligible for Journeyman Wireman status in IBEW Local 22.

The Apprenticeship program offers several programs with different focus areas: Inside (Construction/Industrial), Residential, and Low Voltage. The individual career paths allow you to earn while you learn. These programs focus on hands-on and classroom instruction over the course of three to five years.

For more information about the brand new Training Center and the programs offered, please visit their website HERE.

Are you interested in an associates degree in Ag Technology? AKRS Jump Start Scholarship is your opportunity to pursue an associate degree in Ag Technology and prepare for a career as a John Deere Ag Technician. In addition to covering 100% of student tuition, the Jump Start Scholarship also offers students financial and career incentives: Bonus up to $6000, Jump Start Bonus of $2,500 to assist with miscellaneous college expenses, internship with pay at an AKRS dealership while completing your degree, and guaranteed employment at AKRS upon graduation. For more information and to apply, visit HERE.

Drake-Williams Steel is dedicated to helping youth in the Omaha/Council Bluffs Metro to attend

to and succeed in higher education institutions. The purpose of the DWS Trades Scholarship

program is to provide scholarships annually to high school seniors with the goal of pursuing a

career in the steel industry. The recipient(s) will receive tuition funds to apply to a trade related

degree [ex: Welding, Electro-mechanical Maintenance, Machining, Drafting] from a local

community or technical college and an accompanying employment opportunity.

CLICK HERE FOR APPLICATION.

Drake-Williams Steel is looking for recent high school graduates who are interested in a career in drafting. They offer on the job training, tuition reimbursement, and more. CLICK HERE for details.

The AWS Welder Training Scholarship is for students seeking welder training in a certificate program less than two years in length through a trade school, community college, or other facility providing welder training. The scholarship cannot be used towards an associates or bachelor's degree program.

In 2023, up to 800 - $1,000 Welder Training Scholarships were awarded.

For more information and to apply, CLICK HERE.

Are you an Omaha-area high school student who enjoys solving problems, working with your hands, and taking pride in your work?

Consider applying for Lozier’s Sponsorship for the Trades Program! While earning your associate degree from Metropolitan Community College’s Industrial and Commercial Trades Program, specializing in CNC and Tool and Die Technology (PMTAS) or Electrical/Mechanical
Maintenance Technology (EMAAS), you’ll gain hands-on experience working in your field of interest while taking the classes that will help you advance in your career. Once you graduate, you’ll earn a full-time position at Lozier, starting you on a path toward success while free of college loan debt.

DO YOU DESIRE A CAREER IN HIGH-TECH MANUFACTURING OR BUSINESS BUT ARE UNSURE HOW TO GET STARTED?

Follow your interest and passion through hands-on-training at a sponsoring company in combination with aligned college classes. Earn a debt-free associates degree while learning industry-relevant skills and knowledge. An ICATT Apprenticeship lays the foundation for a career in high demand industries. For more information and to apply, CLICK HERE.

The purpose of the DWS Scholarship program is to provide scholarships annually to high school seniors with the goal of pursuing a career in the welding industry. Recipients will receive a full-tuition award towards a welding degree from a local community college and an accompanying employment opportunity. Applicant must be enrolled at a high school in Nebraska or Iowa, be a graduating senior, have at least a 2.0 GPA, and demonstrate community and/or extra curricular involvement. For more information and to apply, click HERE.

DEADLINE: March 14

The International Brotherhood of Boilermakers is a diverse union representing workers across the United States and Canada. Members are employed in heavy industry, shipbuilding, manufacturing, railroads, cement, mining, and other industries. They construct and maintain electric power plants, refineries, pulp and paper mills, and steel mills.

The four-year (6,000 hour) Boilermaker Apprenticeship Program is a great opportunity to receive the training, education and benefits to succeed in the career and lifestyle of a boilermaker. Please review the basic qualifications:

How to Become an Apprentice with Local 83:

• Must be at least 18 years of age
• Have a high school education (high school diploma or GED)
  
• Be able to travel and work seasonally
• Must live within Local 83's jurisdiction: Iowa, Nebraska, Kansas or Western Missouri
• Fill out SAJAC (Southeastern Area Joint Apprenticeship Committee) application online
• SAJAC will then place each applicant into a Group (1-4), depending on applicant experience and skill level.
• There will be a random drawing to choose an X number of potential apprentices at the end of each month
• Those names will be placed on the active applicant roster and will remain for two years if not chosen to become indentured.
• On an as-needed basis, Local 83 will indenture apprentices to go through the 4-year Apprentice Program.
• If applicants have not been indentured within the two-year period, the applicant must re-apply.
• Exception: If you are a veteran, with an Honorable Discharge, and have completed the Helmets to Hardhats registration, your name will be at the top of the applicant registry.
• Southeastern Area Joint Apprenticeship Application.
• Committee (SAJAC) nd Boilermaker National Apprenticeship Program.

You may also contact Local 83 Apprenticeship Coordinator, Tom Burgess, at 816-523-8300.

For more information, click HERE.

The apprenticeship training at Local Union 464 involves a select group of men and women motivated to learn a complex and challenging trade while upholding the ideals of trade unionism.

Local 464 apprentices learn through both classroom study and on-the-job training in what is considered by many to be the best construction industry training. They have set high standards at Local 464 to be the best. To learn more about an apprenticeship with the Steamfitters & Plumbers Local 464, visit HERE.

Local 21 works diligently to ensure the highest quality and productivity in the competitive construction market. Local 21 is committed to the education and safety of their members.

They offer a Four Year Apprenticeship Program which is registered with the United States Department of Labor Bureau of Apprenticeship and Training, ensuring skilled and properly trained iron working professionals.

What are the qualifications to become an apprentice?

Qualifications to become an apprentice include a:

• Strong foundation of math and literacy skills
• High school or an equivalency diploma

Additionally a qualified candidate must be:

• Physically fit
• Drug-free
• Have access to reliable transportation
• Have proof of citizenship or the legal right to work in the U.S.

For more information and to apply click HERE.

Students who are looking for an Industrial Trades Scholarship (Machinist, Tool & Die, Fabrication Weld, or Mechatronics) can take advantage of Conductix-Wampfler tuition and training program. You can choose Southeast Community College, Des Moines Area Community College, Metropolitan Community College, Iowa Western Community College, or any other accredited community college. Click HERE for more details.

This $2500 scholarship will be awarded to students meeting the flowing criteria:

Must enroll and be accepted in the HVAC program.

Must be a legal resident of Nebraska or Iowa.

Must demonstrate financial need.

Must be in good academic and social standing.

Must maintain a 'B' average or higher while attending the program.

CLICK HERE to apply.

The Heat & Frost Insulators & Allied Workers apply insulating materials to surfaces of structures, including air ducts, hot and cold pipes, boilers, storage tanks, and cold storage rooms.

Basic Qualifications:

• At least 18 years of age
• High school diploma or G.E.D.
• Physically fit to perform work of the trade
• Familiarity with construction is helpful but not required
• Need to furnish own hand tools

For more information, call 402-333-6960.

Standard Heating and Air Conditioning proudly maintains membership and association with the industry leaders. They strive to bring the latest in technology, trade skills and employee education to their installers and technicians whether new to the trade or excelling in a career. They not only follow standards…They help set them!

For those individuals looking to start their career in HVAC, Standard Heating and Air Conditioning offers a federally accredited 4 year Apprenticeship Program. To see if this opportunity is right for you, CLICK HERE.

The HVAC Industry is one of the fastest growing industries in the Omaha Area. A job in the HVAC industry offers variety, job security, respect, upward mobility, great salary, life long employment, and opportunity. Not sure if a four year college is for you? If you are a hands on person who doesn’t see themselves sitting behind a desk, then this industry could be a perfect fit for you. The HVAC industry can allow you the ability to earn income almost directly out of high school. No large student loans and no massive debt when you begin your career. We are partners with several technical schools and suggest that all prospective employees obtain a degree. We will offer tuition assistance to qualified employees. Click HERE to apply.

Invest In your Future Now! Custom Diesel Drivers Training (CDDT) will prepare you for your written skill exams required by the Department of Motor Vehicles. In both the classroom and in the field, their instructors will provide you with insight into their personal experiences to assist you in becoming a professional.

THE CDDT TUITION ASSISTANCE

Custom Diesel Drivers Training, Inc. Offers In house financing. If you are in need of assistance, please contact them and they will help you fill out an easy application and get you started. The Custom Diesel Drivers Training, Inc. Scholarship Funds help individuals start a commercial driving career through Custom Diesel Drivers Training, Inc. To obtain their Class A CDL License and to move forward with great opportunities, Contact us for more information about our scholarship grants for CDL training.

Outside Financing with Zero Down for those who qualify! Please visit the “Enroll Now” tab for more information.

Do you have an IEP? You may have an opportunity to have your tuition paid. You will need to contact CDDT before April 19 to qualify for this opportunity.

The Good Life, Great Journey Scholarship is open to individuals interested in embarking on a new career in select hard-to-fill positions at NDOT, while also offering opportunities for personal and professional growth. Approved programs of study: Diesel Technology, Electronics Systems/Electrical Technology, Land Surveying, Drafting/Design Technology, Engineering, Information Technology. Deadline April 15.

Ford Fund and Ford Dealers welcome the next generation of auto technicians by awarding $5,000 tuition scholarships to students pursuing careers in auto and auto/diesel technology. This need-based scholarship is applied to a student’s school tuition account and may be used for all cost of attendance, including tuition, tools, living expenses and transportation. CLICK HERE TO APPLY.

Baxter Auto Group will pay for you to go to school while working with the best technicians in the industry. Eligible employees can receive non-taxable tuition assistance up to $5,250 per year for verified enrollment in an approved two-year Automotive Technology Program with one of their approved educational partners. The assistance will cover all approved tuition, books, and fees.

Some of the Baxter benefits include:

• Competitive pay & skill-based incentives
• Flexible scheduling around school & other activities
• Opportunity to work on 9 different national automotive brands.
• State of the art facilities
• Vacation & sick time
• Team-first culture
• Sundays off
• Tool reimbursement

Join the Baxter team for a Remarkable Employee Experience!

https://baxterautocareers.com/

The Toyota & Lexus T‑TEN program provides state‑of‑the‑art, hands‑on automotive diagnosis and repair training with an emphasis on skills needed to succeed in the automotive industry. T‑TEN is a partnership between community colleges, vocational schools and Toyota and Lexus dealerships. See how our industry-leading technician training network is helping to develop and place thousands of people in rewarding careers. Click HERE to see how you can enroll in this program.

Pro-Fleet CDL Driving Academy is a premier driving school offering top quality training and opportunities in the trucking industry.

Training to become a truck driver takes less time and the cost is much lower than many other careers. Often tuition is reimbursed through programs offered by hiring companies. Pro-Fleet offers competitive tuition and several easy financing opportunities. If you truck in your own state, you can begin as young as 18 years old. If you wish to drive across state lines, you need to be 21. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median income for truck drivers in 2021 was $48,310 per year or $23.23 per hour.

If you would like more information about this trade or would like to apply for their training, click HERE.

The John Deere Construction & Forestry Equipment Tech program will prepare you for employment as a high-quality entry-level technician in a John Deere Construction & Forestry Equipment dealership. John Deere construction equipment is used in numerous types of earthmoving, including road building, underground utilities, site development, and residential construction. You will learn how to service engines, power trains, hydraulic, electrical, and electronic systems as well as diagnose and repair air conditioning problems for John Deere Construction & Forestry Equipment.

Your coursework will consist of lectures and labs taken though the John Deere University on SCC's Milford campus. You will do your off-campus training at a John Deere Construction & Forestry Equipment dealership.

Students entering this program may qualify for the Scott Pathway Scholarship.

CLICK HERE for more information.

Can you get paid to go to college? Yes, it’s true! John Deere and Murphy Tractor programs are looking for talented individuals to be trained to become a John Deere Construction Equipment Technician.

Specifically designed to prepare the individual for trouble shooting and repair of construction equipment, graduates earn a two year, associates of science degree. Reimbursement will be paid to successful graduates completing requirements.

This isn’t your average diesel program. Deere & Company established the John Deere TECH program in 1989 and now sponsors programs at 24 colleges throughout the U.S. and Canada. Every instructor has completed extensive John Deere technician training and students have the opportunity to work on the latest equipment and technology. And with 2,000+ John Deere Dealerships throughout the U.S. and Canada, opportunity is right around the corner.

Course Descriptions

Daily Schedule

Murphy Tractor Sponsorship

This program is a two-year program where students get hands-on training and experience on the latest equipment and technology in the world.

Murphy Tractor Co. Sponsorship Program Includes:

• 100% Paid Tuition
• $3,500 of total credit awarded for tools
• Accredited associate degree in applied science through John Deere Tech Program may be transferrable to four-year universities
• Full time employment upon graduation as a Murphy Tractor Technician

CLICK HERE for more information.

The Omaha School of Massage Therapy has been a staple in massage education for the past 25+ years in Omaha. OSMT was founded in 1989 and has seen numerous changes over the years, but the core principle of creating awareness regarding massage therapy’s health benefits has remained constant. They strive to ensure that graduates master the skills needed for a long profession in massage therapy while also understanding the importance of giving back to their community.

For more information click HERE.

Nebraska offers six AAPC-approved classroom training programs for medical coding at locations throughout the state. You can study at your pace and save with an online certification course through AAPC. If you’re interested in learning more about coding and billing, or perhaps interested in dual certification, they offer a special online course for medical coding and billing.

For more information, visit HERE.

Heartland Dental Assisting trains you to be a dental assistant in as little as 10 weeks! One of the most in-demand healthcare jobs, dental assisting is poised for growth in the coming years. With over 20 years of experience training dental assistants, Heartland Dental Assisting sets the industry standard. Click HERE to learn more.

Universal College of Healing Arts was founded in 1995 in Omaha, Nebraska, by a group of like-minded people whose vision was to create an alternative organization to address the community's needs for a state-approved 1000-hour diploma for licensure in massage therapy.

With the group's professional teaching expertise and skill, they created a program that expressed their philosophy, mission, and values. They built upon their reputation for excellence by continuously improving the programs for bodyworkers by introducing various hands-on techniques.

The team emphasizes quality and diversity, allowing for a learning environment committed to education, professionalism, ethics, caring, open-mindedness, and balance.

Click HERE for more information.

Medical coding is the translation of medical reports into a short code used within the healthcare industry. This helps summarize otherwise cumbersome medical reports into efficient, data-friendly codes. While complex and detail-driven, medical coding really comes down to knowing how to navigate the three main code sets: CPT, ICD, and HCPCS. These code sets help coders document the condition of a patient and describe the medical procedure performed on that patient in response to their condition. To learn more about this career, click HERE.

Phlebotomy technicians collect blood from patients and prepare the samples for testing. Most work in hospitals and clinics, but some collect blood for donation purposes. Phlebotomy technicians are important members of the health care team and often need to explain the blood-drawing procedure and put patients at ease. If you are interested in a career in phlebotomy, click HERE.

Quality Career Pathways offers over eight medical course options at two campus locations: FORT and VINTON. Once you become a student, you will have access to a state-of-the-art school, instructors who are licensed in their field with experience in a variety of medical environments, and hiring partners that visit you in the Omaha classrooms. Plus, you have the satisfaction of knowing you are attending a quality school that has been open for 11 years.

CHOOSE FROM THESE COURSE OPTIONS: Certified Nurse Aide (CNA), Certified Medication Aide (CMA), Personal Care Assistant (PCA), Pharmacy Technician (PHARM), Pediatric CNA (PEDS), Basic Life Support (BLS), CMA Refresher, or the CNA Refresher.

Click HERE for more information.

Are you interested in Cosmetology? Josephs College would like you to see what they are all about by booking a tour with them. You can email them HERE or call them at 800-742-7827.

What does it take to be a police officer in the city of La Vista?

The La Vista Police Department is a well-respected and modern full service law enforcement agency that embraces a community policing philosophy. The City of La Vista offers an excellent wage and benefit package as well as professional growth opportunities. Qualified applicants will have a high school diploma or GED; some college preferred. Applicants must be at least 21 years of age by graduation from Police Academy (no upper age requirements), possess a valid Driver’s License by hire date, U.S. citizen, no felony convictions or a dishonorable discharge from military service. Salary range $56,264 to $80,246.

Benefits: • Competitive Pay in the Omaha Metro Area • Scheduling – 12 hour shifts for Uniformed Patrol with every other weekend off (3 days) • Health, Dental and Life Insurance • Defined Contribution Retirement Plan • Optional Deferred Compensation Plans • Paid Vacation, 10 Holidays, Personal Leave and Sick Leave • Tuition Reimbursement / Education Incentive Pay • Longevity Pay • Paid Uniforms and Equipment (Quartermaster System) • Modern equipment

Career Opportunities: • Field Training Officer • Police Officer In Charge • Crisis Intervention • Special Weapons and Tactics • Tactical Negotiations • Criminal Investigations • Police Motorcycle / UTV • Crime Prevention • Narcotics / Gang Unit • Crash Investigations

To learn more, CLICK HERE.

At EQ School of Hair Design, partnered with SOHO Hair Academy, future professionals will receive a Master Class education that will set them up for success in the hair industry. They believe in empowering their students to be the best they can be and provide students with the knowledge and skills students needed to excel. With their comprehensive curriculum and hands-on training, their students will be ready to take their careers to the next level. For more information and to apply, visit HERE.

SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATION

Great Clips® believes in the future of the hair industry and is proud to offer over $100,000 total in scholarships to students each year! Future stylists and barbers across the United States and Canada are invited to apply to receive a tuition scholarship valued at up to $5,000 each to help launch their dreams.

Spring scholarship application period: September 2 – March 1 with recipients notified by no later than April 30. (Even if you missed this session, keep in mind there is a fall application period.)

Fall scholarship application period: March 2 – September 1. recipients notified by no later than October 31. (Even if you missed this session, keep in mind there is a spring application period.)

For more information and to apply, visit HERE.

Applications are accepted from January 1st through June 1st each year. To be considered, an applicant must be currently applying for entrance into Cosmetology/Barber School, OR actively enrolled in a Cosmetology/Barber program. For more information, visit HERE.

DEADLINE: June 1

Whether you are a student in professional beauty school or a licensed professional wanting to continue your education, the Professional Beauty Association offers scholarships to help you in your career. Education advances our industry and PBA is dedicated to continually offering beauty professionals opportunities to grow their careers through education. We encourage all future and current beauty professionals to apply for all educational opportunities available!

For more information and to apply for their scholarships, click HERE.

Is becoming a Tattoo Artist something that interests you? You can learn more about what it takes to become a Tattoo Artist in the Omaha area by clicking HERE.

Looking for a career in real estate? Click HERE for more information.