Why you should consider choosing a trade (and why I didn't)
Why you should consider choosing a trade (and why I didn't)
November 5, 2012
In high school, I remember trying to switch out of a Grade 12 advanced law class. I was willing to take anything else, really, but it turned out the only other option was auto shop. I stayed in the law class.
I’m not sure why, but I always had this stereotype of a "tradesperson," and what was actually considered a "trade," and it never seemed like the right fit for me.
Then I discovered baking. I love to bake—cupcakes, muffins, cookies, tarts, and pies—and one of these days, I may actually bake a cake. I’d love to return to school some day and take a baking and pastry arts course.
Now, you may be thinking: "Whoa, baking? Not exactly the same as working with sheet metal, Rob."
Actually, as right as that may seem, baking is a trade recognized by the Interprovincial Standards Red Seal Program. The Red Seal Program also recognizes the occupations of hairstylist, painter and decorator, cook, agricultural equipment technician, and landscape horticulturalist as trades.
I think what’s so amazing about working in the trades is the ability to do something you love while producing results almost instantly, like a hairstylist cutting hair, or a plumber fixing a pipe. You can see the results of your job every single day. If you’re just starting out in the trades as an apprentice, you can earn up to $4,000 in grants through Service Canada’s apprenticeship grant program.
A career in trades is a very viable option for a variety of reasons, and there are so many to choose from that suit many interests and skills. Take hairstyling, for instance—my hairstylist, Lynn, told me that she always knew she wanted to study the trade. She sees it as a form of art and expression, and takes great pride in making sure her clients (including me) are satisfied and confident when they leave her salon.
The same rule applies to all trades. Whether you’re working with sheet metal, building cabinetry, working with cars, or plumbing, you see results every day.
In the current labour market, there are shortages of people working in skilled trades. So whether you’re considering returning to school, or you’re still making up your mind about what you want to do for a career, why not check out the trades? You may be surprised about what jobs are recognized by the Red Seal Program.
Want to find out more about a career in the skilled trades? Skills Canada will be promoting and hosting events across Canada for National Skilled Trades and Technology Week, November 5-9, 2012. Visit the website to find the location nearest you!
Do you work in a trade now, or are you considering it? Why did you choose it?
Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’m off to make muffins.