There are many options when considering secondary education: two-year college, four-year universities and trade schools. By definition, a Trade School offers “education designed to provide vocational education, or technical skills required to complete the tasks of a particular and specific job.” While there are benefits to all three options listed above, there are unique aspects about Trade Schools that you should take into consideration.
A decade ago, the stigma around a vocational training was much different that it is today. Students have realized they do not need to commit the time, and pay the high price of annual tuition, to get a great paying job. Nowadays, trade jobs are in high demand – with better than average salary ranges – making them a solid career choice.
Trade School Benefits
1. Start your career faster
Trade schools focus on the exact skills needed to perform your selected career. So – unlike major universities – there is no need to take hours upon hours of general requirement courses in order to graduate. Say goodbye to American Literature and Advanced Algebra. And say hello to your new vocational career.
2. Spend less money on your education
This is a no brainer, but we will say it anyway. Those general requirements we mentioned above cost money. And for some trade jobs, it would be wasted money. Instead, select a trade school that focuses only on the skills you will need and pay hundreds in tuition – not thousands.
3. Start classes anytime throughout the year
Traditional universities operate on a strict calendar of quarters and semesters. So if you miss the fall deadlines you need to wait until January – or even the next fall – to attend classes. Trade schools generally have a more flexible schedule. For instance, at Quality Career Pathways, there are classes that start every month of the year. You simply have to choose which one works best for your schedule.
4. Smaller class sizes
The large university lecture halls can be intimidating. And if you need to ask your professor a question, your raised hand may be missed. Vocational schools often limit class sizes so they can provide one-on-one support when needed. After all, you are learning a select skillset. You want to ensure you know them inside and out.
5. Get insider knowledge and hands on training before you arrive on the job
Many times trade schools employ former employees in the field of study. For example, Quality Career Pathways hires LPNs and RNs to instruct their CNA and CMA Courses. These teachers bring their experiences from years in the medical community to the classroom. This level of instruction is priceless.
6. Get assistance with job placement
Because trade schools specialize in specific career options, many area employees contact the school looking to employ the graduates. While a school cannot guarantee employment after graduation, there are schools that go a step above to help make it happen. Case in point, six areas employers have partnered with Quality Career Pathways to hire students upon completion of their courses.
Vocational Job Options
Sometimes people define vocational jobs as blue color or manual labor positions. But it has become so much more than that. There are several medical careers that also fall into the definition of trade jobs, because you can hold these prestigious titles after a short training period. So they are most definitely vocational. Consider one of these career options today:
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
A Certified Nursing Assistant, or CNA, helps patients or clients with healthcare needs under the supervision of a Registered Nurse (RN) or a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). The course to become a Certified Nursing Assistant is 76 hours long. You can read more about the program HERE.
Certified Medication Aide (CMA)
A Certified Medication Aide, or CMA, administers routine oral medications and is responsible for monitoring a patient’s vitals and behavior while on medication. This certification is only 40 hours from start to finish. Read more about becoming a CMA HERE.
Pharmacy Technician (Pharm Tech)
A Pharmacy Technician assists a Pharmacist within a pharmacy setting such as within hospitals, drugstores, grocery stores, and other medical facilities. This program is part online, part in person check ins to ensure you are understanding the material, and part onsite training at CHI Health. Read all about this unique program HERE.
Attend Omaha’s Premier Trade School for Medical Vocational Training
From saving time and money to assistance getting hired after training, you should consider getting a certification from Quality Career Pathways today. Check out the calendar of upcoming courses and enroll now.