Exploring Skilled Trades

Skilled tradespeople have OPPORTUNITY

Skilled tradespeople are in DEMAND

• Bricklayer

• Electrician

• Heavy Machine Operator

• Sheet Metal Worker

• Carpenter

• Plumber

• Laborers

• Automotive Technician

• Small Engine and Equipment Mechanic

• Aircraft Maintenance Engineer

• Agricultural Equipment Technician

• Auto Body Repairer

• Motorcycle Mechanic

• Millwright

• Metal Fabricator

• Power System Operator

• Tool and Die Maker

• Welder

• Machinist

• Graphic Arts

• Cosmetologist/Barber

• Chef

• Appliance Service Technician

• Horticulturist (Landscaper)

You can get into a trade through a few different routes. For some fields, companies will hire entry-level workers and train them in-house. For others, you’ll need to get a certificate or associate degree, or complete a registered apprenticeship. While the process of learning a trade varies somewhat depending on the specific career, there are a few steps that apply in most situations. Here is the basic procedure for how to learn a trade:

• Helps individuals meet the entry requirements for registered apprenticeship programs

• Ensures individuals are prepared to be successful in their apprenticeship

• On-the-job training with technical training to become a highly skilled tradesperson.

• Paid on-the-job training with an experienced mentor

• Relevant classroom instruction

• Incremental pay raises

• An industry-recognized credential

Many skilled trades jobs are actually things you can at least start out doing as hobbies/chores/household projects in the comfort of your own home or garage.

Schedule for for hands-on skilled classes at your home high school or local Career Technical Education Center. Even if not in your specific area of focus, it will provide the opportunity to work with your hands, get comfortable with tools, and learn important measures of safety. Look for classes like: Automotive, Construction, Cosmetology, Culinary Arts, Graphic Design, Welding, Woods, and more.

A summary of your work history, skills, and education.

After graduating high school, most tradesmen will attend some sort of schooling for a year or two, be it a community college or technical school. While formal training like this may not be required for apprenticeships, these beginner’s courses will give you a leg up on other candidates.

Entry level positions allows you to come in with literally no experience, start earning a paycheck, and start learning a trade.

Check the website for the apprenticeship program that is of interest to you. Identify the application window for the apprenticeship program. Some programs may offer ongoing applications, while others may only accept applications once a year.

FAFSA Code: 002270

FAFSA Code: 013603

FAFSA Code: 002315

FAFSA Code: 009230

FAFSA Code: 008906

FAFSA Code: 002294

FAFSA Code: 002303

FAFSA Code: 002328

• Obtain FSA ID
• Complete the FAFSA Form
• Add the FAFSA school code

• https://setseg.org/tradescholarship

This document includes just a sample of programs available in the Metro-Detroit area. Remember to check websites for program offerings. Your school’s career exploration tools will also highlight a variety of related careers and education and training institutions.

References: Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook

Note: Inclusion of a program in our database does not indicate an endorsement by Wayne RESA. The database is for informational purposes only.

Department of Workforce Development, CTE, Adult Ed and Career Counseling