About the trades

Trades usually refer to careers in the construction, manufacturing, mechanical, and utility fields. They are usually hands-on jobs that are physically and mentally challenging. You may need to join a union for some trades.

Examples of careers in the trades:

What education or training do I need for the trades?

Most trades need education or training beyond high school. There are many different avenues into the trades.

• Certificate or Associate degree: 1-2 year programs that focuses on skills for a specific career. Available at community colleges, trade schools or JobCorps centers.
• Apprenticeship: Paid on-the-job training and classroom learning for a specific trade. In Oregon, they are offered at a community college, trade school, or an Apprenticeship and Training Center (ATC).
• Bachelor’s degree or higher: Management and engineering jobs in the trades often need an advanced degree from a college or university.
  
  

What can I do to prepare for a career in the trades?

Take the right classes to graduate from high school.

• You will need a high school diploma or GED.
• Take math in high school. Most trades jobs use math regularly.
• Take Career and Technical Education (CTE) classes to get hands-on experience.

Learn more about trades.

• Take part in an internship, job shadow or summer program.
• Volunteer with a community program where you can learn new skills and practice good work habits.
• Enroll in a pre-apprenticeship program. These help you get ready to enter a trade or apprenticeship program.
• Explore career and training options at Build Oregon and Oregon Apprenticeship.

Stay healthy and fit.

• Stay drug-free. Employers may screen applicants and employees.
• Get in shape. Many trades jobs are physically demanding.