9 Professional Trades High Schools Should Offer

Not every student wants to go to a traditional four-year university after high school, and that’s okay!

Many students are more interested in hands-on work and learning specific skills that can help them start their future careers right away.

For these students, professional trades offer a great alternative to traditional colleges.

Unfortunately, not all high schools provide enough opportunities for students to explore trade school programs.

Vocational schools focus on teaching students how to do specific, in-demand jobs. This type of vocational education gives students practical skills and real-world experience, making it easier for them to get a good job soon after they graduate.

In this article, we’ll explore nine professional trades that high schools should offer.

(1) Electricians

 

Electrical systems are essential in every home, business, and school.

Electricians are the ones who keep everything running smoothly. They make sure that wiring and other electrical systems are safe and efficient.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the demand for electricians is expected to grow by 7% through 2031, making it a great career choice for students looking for skilled jobs.

Why High Schools Should Offer It ELECTRICIAN COURSES

When high schools offer trade programs that teach students how to work with electrical systems, students learn the basics of wiring, safety procedures, and power distribution.

After graduation, they could continue their education with an associate degree or specialized job training.

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With only two years of training, they can start working as electricians, earning a competitive salary right away.

This career path offers great pay, job security, and the option to enter the workforce without a four-year degree.

 

(2) HVAC Technicians

 

When we talk about heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC), we’re talking about systems that make our homes and buildings comfortable all year round.

HVAC technicians are responsible for installing, repairing, and maintaining these systems.

The BLS projects a 5% growth in job opportunities for HVAC technicians through 2031, making it another excellent trade for students to learn.

Why High Schools Should Offer It HVAC COURSES

High school students would benefit from learning the basics of air conditioning, refrigeration, and heating systems through a specialized program.

This vocational education would give them hands-on experience, helping them decide if they want to continue their studies at a community college or technical school.

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After completing their education, students can enter a stable, high-paying field without taking on the costs associated with a traditional four-year university.

 

(3) Medical Assistants

 

Medical assistants play a key role in healthcare settings, supporting doctors and nurses with important tasks like taking patients’ vital signs, preparing patients for exams, and handling basic lab work.

The healthcare industry is growing rapidly, and the BLS predicts that the demand for medical assistants will grow by 16% through 2031, making it a great field to consider for students interested in healthcare.

Why High Schools Should Offer COURSES FOR MEDICAL ASSISTANTING

By offering programs for medical assistants, high schools can give students the opportunity to gain real-world experience in healthcare settings.

Students could learn skills like administering medication and keeping patient records, preparing them for further training in a vocational program or diploma program.

After graduating from high school, students can complete their certification and start working in clinics or hospitals in a short amount of time, with much lower costs than those required for a traditional college degree.

For example, a high school student who completes a medical assisting program can go on to a career college to become a certified medical assistant.

Within a year or two, they are working in a doctor’s office, making a difference in patients’ lives without the need for years of additional schooling.

 

(4) Culinary Arts

 

If you love food and enjoy creating new dishes, then a career in culinary arts could be a perfect fit for you!

Culinary programs teach students how to prepare, cook, and present food in a professional setting.

According to the BLS, the job outlook for chefs and head cooks is expected to grow by 15% through 2031, making it a great time to enter the food industry.

Why High Schools Should Offer CULINARY ARTS CLASSES:

High schools should introduce students to the world of cooking by offering culinary programs where students get to practice their skills in the kitchen.

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From learning basic knife skills to creating full meals, students can gain hands-on training that prepares them for a career as a chef or restaurant manager.

After graduation, students can continue their education at a culinary institute or even start working in local restaurants to build more experience.

For example, students could discover a love for cooking through a high school culinary program.

After graduation, they could learn advanced techniques in food preparation at a culinary school.

Soon, they could be working as a sous chef in a popular local restaurant and dreaming of opening their own place one day.

 

(5) Construction MANAGEMENT

 

Construction managers oversee building projects, making sure that everything from homes to large commercial buildings is completed safely and on time.

This career requires a combination of practical skills and critical thinking.

According to the BLS, the demand for construction managers is expected to grow by 8% through 2031, making it a promising field for students who enjoy hands-on work and leadership roles.

TRADE SCHOOL VS 4-YEAR COLLEGE | HOW THEY COMPARE

Why High Schools Should Offer It BUILDING TRADES

High schools should offer trade programs that teach students the basics of construction, from reading blueprints to understanding safety regulations. These programs would allow students to get a taste of what it’s like to work in the construction field.

For example, high school students interested in construction take a course in carpentry and project management. They also learn how to read blueprints and organize materials.

After graduating, they decide to pursue further training through a four-year college degree in construction management, attend a local two-year community college, or start working right away in entry-level construction jobs.

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(6) Dental Hygienists

 

Dental hygienists work alongside dentists to keep patients' teeth clean and healthy.

They clean teeth, take X-rays, and teach patients about proper oral hygiene.

The BLS projects that the demand for dental hygienists will grow by 9% through 2031, making it a stable and rewarding career option for students interested in healthcare.

Why High Schools Should Offer DENTAL HYGIENE PROGRAMS:

Offering a dental hygiene program in high school would give students a head start in this fast-growing field.

High school graduates could continue their education through a trade school program or an associate degree program in dental hygiene.

Within two years, they could be certified as dental hygienists and working in a dentist’s office, helping patients maintain their oral health, earning a good salary and enjoying job security.

 

(7) Plumbing

Plumbing is a skilled trade that involves installing and repairing water systems in homes and businesses.

Plumbers are essential workers who help keep our water systems running smoothly.

The BLS predicts a 5% growth in jobs for plumbers through 2031, making it a solid career choice for students interested in hands-on work.

Why High Schools Should Offer PROGRAMS IN PLUMBING

High schools should offer vocational programs in plumbing, giving students the chance to learn how to install and repair water pipes.

After completing their high school education, students could continue with further certifications or apprenticeships to become licensed plumbers.

With several years of experience, they can become a licensed plumber, eventually starting their own plumbing business and earning a great salary.

Plumbing offers great job security and a high earning potential, making it a smart choice for students looking for a stable career.

 

(8) Pharmacy Technicians

Pharmacy technicians play an important role in the healthcare system. They assist pharmacists in preparing and dispensing medications, and they are essential to the smooth operation of both retail and hospital pharmacies.

They also help manage inventory, work with insurance companies, and provide customer service to patients picking up their prescriptions.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), demand for pharmacy technicians is expected to grow by 5% through 2031.

Why High Schools Should Offer PHARMACY TECH PROGRAMS

Pharmacy tech programs at the high school level can teach students essential skills like dosage calculations, medication management, and the legal aspects of working in a pharmacy.

Students who complete these programs could obtain certification through programs like the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE). With high school preparation, students can enter this healthcare field faster and at lower costs than pursuing a four-year degree.

Consider a student who completes a pharmacy tech program during high school.

After graduation, they pass the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) and begin working in a retail pharmacy.

With real-world experience and certification, they are able to assist pharmacists and help patients manage their prescriptions efficiently.

 

(9) Auto Mechanics

Cars, trucks, and other vehicles are essential to modern life, and auto mechanics keep them running safely and smoothly.

Auto mechanics diagnose and repair various issues with vehicles, from routine maintenance like oil changes to more complex repairs like engine overhauls.

This field is always in demand, and the BLS projects a 1% growth in jobs for auto mechanics through 2031, with strong job security in most regions.

Why High Schools Should Offer AUTO MECHANIC PROGRAMS

High schools should offer auto mechanic programs that allow students to work directly with vehicles, gaining hands-on experience with tools, diagnostics, and repairs.

Auto mechanic programs provide students with practical skills that translate directly to job opportunities.

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High school students interested in cars could take an auto mechanic program that allows them to work on school-owned vehicles.

After learning the basics of vehicle diagnostics, brake replacement, and engine repair, students who complete these programs could go on to earn certifications such as Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). This would qualify them to work in repair shops or dealerships or even start their own businesses.

 

Conclusion

Vocational programs in high schools offer students the opportunity to gain valuable hands-on experience and develop specific skills that prepare them for successful careers in high-demand fields.

From electrical work and HVAC technology to pharmacy tech and auto mechanics, these programs provide pathways for students to enter the workforce without the need for a four-year degree.

By offering trade programs in fields like medical assisting, culinary arts, construction management, and dental hygiene, students can explore a wide range of skilled trades that align with their interests and future career goals.

Programs like pharmacy technician allow students to enter the healthcare sector, while auto mechanic training gives them the chance to work in the growing automotive repair industry.

These vocational options give students the flexibility to choose a career path that works for them.

These programs also provide the foundation for further education and certifications, enabling students to continue growing in their fields.

High schools should expand their vocational offerings to give students more real-world experience and job training, ensuring they are prepared for skilled jobs in high-demand fields.

With these options, students have many ways to build successful careers without accumulating the debt and time commitment of a traditional college education.

By equipping students with practical skills and work-ready knowledge, high schools can better support students' transition into the workforce, giving them the tools they need to thrive in their chosen fields.

 

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