Is it smart to quit my day job for trade school?

I'm contemplating leaving my day job to attend trade school full-time. I feel that a specialized trade might be a more stable and rewarding career path. I'm curious about others' experiences with making such a change.

Switching from a day job to trade school is a significant step, and indeed, it can provide numerous benefits including more stability and specialized skills, especially in high-demand trades. However, this decision should be made considering a few points:

Firstly, analyze the financial implications. Trade schools are typically less expensive than a four-year college, but there are still tuition, materials and possibly living costs if you quit your job and won't have any income coming in. Plenty of people hold down a job while attending trade school - it's a matter of balancing work, school, and personal life.

Secondly, consider your long-term job prospects. Demand for skilled tradespeople is reasonably high in many parts of the country, but it will depend on the trade you choose and the area you live in, or are willing to move to. Do some research about job opportunities in the trades you're considering.

Lastly, ask yourself how passionate you are about the trade you're considering. Trade school is a commitment and working in a trade can be physically demanding and require long hours. It's important to choose a trade that you enjoy and are physically able to handle.

Consider reaching out to professionals who have undergone this transition for advice, and possibly even try shadowing someone in the field to get a 'day in the life' perspective. Going back to school is a big decision, and it's wise to gather as much information as possible before going down this path.