I'm finishing high school soon and thinking about a career in construction. What kind of jobs can I get through trade school that focus on building or construction? How long do these programs usually take?
There are several jobs in the construction field that can be pursued through trade school. Here are a few examples:
1. Plumber: Plumbers install and repair pipes that carry liquids or gases to and in businesses, homes, and factories. Usually, becoming a plumber involves an apprenticeship that takes around 4-5 years, but there are also trade school programs that could accelerate this timeline.
2. Electrician: Electricians install and maintain electrical power, communications, lighting, and control systems in homes or businesses. Usually, electricians go through a 4-5 year apprenticeship, but trade school programs are also an option.
3. HVAC Technician: These technicians install, repair, and maintain heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems. Trade school programs in this field typically take between 6 months and 2 years to complete.
4. Carpenter: Carpenters construct, install, and repair structures and fixtures made from wood and other materials. Carpentry programs can take anywhere from 1-2 years at a trade school.
5. Masonry Worker: These workers use bricks, concrete, and concrete blocks, and natural and manmade stones to build structures. Masonry training programs are usually between 1-2 years long.
6. Construction Manager: While some construction managers learn their craft on the job, many attend trade or vocational school to earn an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in construction management or a related field. These programs usually take 2-4 years.
Most of these trades involve hands-on training in addition to classroom instruction, and often lead to a certification or license that can help you secure work in your chosen field.
Of course, the duration of these programs can vary based on different factors, so it's vital to reach out to the specific trade schools you're interested in to get a more precise timeline. Remember to consider apprenticeship possibilities, as they often provide job security and a decent wage while you learn your trade.
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