What is a vocational job coach?

I've heard about vocational job coaches and I'm not really sure what they do. Are they like normal career counselors, or do they focus more on specific industries? How can one help me with my job search after high school?

A vocational job coach is a professional whose primary role centers around providing guidance and support to individuals seeking employment in skilled trades or specific industry sectors. These coaches help students and job seekers who are looking to pursue careers outside of the traditional college pathway, usually in vocational or technical fields.

A key part of a vocational job coach's job is to help job seekers discover their interests and strengths, and then guide them to industries and jobs that align with those. They assist in identifying suitable vocational or training programs and help students apply to these programs. In addition, job coaches may also provide training in soft skills, like communication and teamwork, and practical skills, such as resume writing and interview techniques.

The goal of a vocational job coach goes beyond just finding a job for their client. They aim to find the best fit—a role where the individual will be engaged, committed, and prosperous. In sum, they offer specialized, focused assistance that can be very beneficial for someone unsure of what steps to take after graduation, especially if they're interested in pursuing a vocational path. So, if you're eyeing jobs in specific trades or vocational sectors post-high school, a vocational job coach would likely be a great asset to your job search strategy!