Have you or someone you know ever considered a career in the skilled trades industry? If you answered “no,” keep reading below to see why you may want to rethink that answer. Recent studies and statistics show the surprising number of opportunities presenting themselves in this hard-working industry, and why it has been a challenge to fill these positions that built America, as we know it today.
“Construction, manufacturing, and engineering — these skilled trades are the foundation on which the U.S. was built.” – Adecco
Did you know that an estimated 31 million positions in the skilled trades will be left vacant by 2020? With over half of the workforce in the industry at age 45 years or older in 2012, this staggering statistic can be attributed to a large number of individuals from the Baby Boomer generation leaving jobs as they near retirement. The current number of estimated individuals from that generation in the U.S. accounts for 25% of the total population. As they make way for future generations, vast opportunities in the field are evident and awaiting new talent.
With immense demand for professionals in the growing trades industry, there are countless possibilities available to individuals entering the workforce which provides job security in an exciting field. These positions, such as those available at Custom Aire, offer career development, personal growth and a team environment, as well as perks such as excellent pay, great benefits and even employee stock ownership plans.
In addition to these great benefits, many positions in the trades industry do not require a 4-year university degree, making more cost-effective education alternatives such as trade schools and apprenticeship programs an appealing solution. Trade schools offer a streamlined approach to education that teaches skills related to specific topics such as plumbing, HVAC and electric. According to many professionals and statistics, younger generations would be wise to take these more affordable programs into consideration.
Not sure where to begin? A wonderful place to start is by looking into options available in your area, from job fairs and career days, to local apprenticeship programs and vocational schools. For example, at Custom Aire, we offer a 4-year, in-house Department of Labor–approved Sheet Metal Apprenticeship Program that provides exceptional career development and growth opportunities through hands-on training from highly skilled professionals in the industry.
When it comes to exploring your options, the more information you can get, the better! Utilize these available resources to your advantage and seek potential career avenues you may not have considered or known about before. Visit our Careers page to learn more about the careers we offer, view current job openings, or contact us for more information.
