Is a trade job worth it after high school?

I've been thinking about going to a trade school instead of college because I'm interested in hands-on work. Are trade jobs actually worth it in terms of salary and job satisfaction?

Certainly, trade jobs can be as rewarding and valuable as other careers. Let's take a closer look at both the financial and job satisfaction aspects to give you a more comprehensive picture:

Starting with salary: Many trade jobs do offer competitive wages. For instance, positions like electricians, plumbers, and HVAC technicians can earn impressive salaries after gaining a few years of experience. Additionally, many trade schools programs are designed to be completed in significantly less time than a traditional four-year college, which can be a financially beneficial choice as it allows you to enter the workforce sooner without the burden of hefty student loans.

Now, onto job satisfaction: This can vary widely depending on the individual and the specific trade they're in. If you enjoy working with your hands, solving tangible problems, and seeing the immediate results of your work, you may find a high level of satisfaction in a trade job. Such jobs often offer the ability to work independently or in small teams, and the tasks can be varied and engaging, avoiding the typical "desk job" monotony.

One example can be an electrician who enjoys the challenge of diagnosing and fixing complex wiring issues in different environments - from homes to factories. It's a career that requires both mental and physical engagement and offers a good balance of indoor and outdoor work environments.

On the other hand, remember that trade jobs can also come with challenges. Many trade jobs can be physically demanding, require working in tough conditions (like extreme weather or cramped spaces), and often involve manual labor, which can take a toll on the body over time. But if you're someone who thrives in kinetic, varied environments and enjoys the satisfaction of solving real-world problems, these potential downsides might not be significant concerns for you.

Keep in mind that ultimately, the worth of a trade job - or any job, really - significantly depends on your personal interests, skills, and long-term goals. It's essential to carefully research and consider your options, and perhaps seek out opportunities to 'test-drive' career options via internships, job-shadowing or informational interviews with people in the field you're interested in.