What are the quickest trades to get a job in right out of high school?

I'm considering going into a trade rather than heading straight to college, and I’d like to know which trades offer the quickest path to employment. Are there specific programs or jobs that allow for a fast transition into the workforce?

Several trade skills provide relatively quick paths to employment, usually through a combination of hands-on training and some formal education. Here are some:

1. Electrician: It's often possible to start work as an apprentice electrician straight out of high school, where you’d be earning while learning on the job. This apprenticeship usually lasts around four years. Some electricians also attend a technical school first, which may shorten the apprenticeship.

2. Plumbing: Much like the electrician trade, plumbers often begin as apprentices, learning on the job under the guidance of an experienced tradesman. Most apprenticeships last about 4-5 years.

3. HVAC Technician: HVAC technicians install and repair systems for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning. You can usually start working as an HVAC technician after completing a 6-month to 2-year program at a trade school or community college, or you can start as an apprentice.

4. Medical Coding: If you're interested in healthcare but aren't keen on direct patient care, medical coding might be a great fit. You can become a medical coder by completing a certificate program, which typically takes about one year.

5. Commercial Driver: There’s usually a steady demand for truck drivers, and you can get the necessary commercial driver's license in as little as seven weeks. Do note that this job often involves long hours and considerable time away from home.

6. Welder: Welding can be another quick entry into a trade profession. Some trade schools offer welding certification programs that can be completed in nine months.

Please note that while you might get trained quickly, your skill level, familiarity with the field, and professional network will still be developing early in your career. That means it could still take some time to find a job, depending on the demand for your trade-in your area. So, be sure to do some research on your local job market and consider your interests and aptitudes when choosing a trade.