Can you enter trade jobs with a college degree?

I might go to college first, but I'm really interested in trade jobs too. Does having a degree give any advantages when pursuing a trade career? Would love to hear if anyone took this route and how it worked out for them.

Certainly, it's possible to transition from college into a trade job, and having a degree can indeed provide some advantages, depending on the trade career you're considering.

For instance, a degree might not necessarily directly improve your skills as an electrician, plumber, or carpenter, as much of this kind of expertise are gained through hands-on training and apprenticeships. However, having knowledge in fields like business, economics, or communications could be beneficial if you're planning to manage your own business later on, as these backgrounds can give you better understanding of the market, enhance your entrepreneurship skills, and help you in dealing with clients or marketing your services.

Additionally, while a degree isn't usually a requirement for trade careers, the broad knowledge and skills you acquire during a collegiate study—like problem-solving, critical-thinking, time management, and communication—can serve you in any career field, including the trades. These so-called 'soft skills' could make you a more adaptable, resourceful and efficient worker in a trade job. So, while it's not a must, having a degree could potentially enhance your prospects if utilized correctly.

A few examples of people successfully transitioning from college into trade careers include business graduates who open their own plumbing or electrical companies or engineering graduates who become industrial machine repair technicians.

Keep in mind, though, that trade jobs usually also require practical training and certifications. So alongside your degree, you would also need to invest time and potentially money into trade-specific training and certification programs. Consider these factors as you plan your next steps. It's important to ensure that the path you choose aligns with your interests and long-term career goals.