Careers in the trades

Recently I had an exchange that I think is very important, and that I want to share with everyone who follows my page(s). I was talking with a fellow I met who works as a machine operator in Alberta. He was razzing me a little bit about my line of work.

"Why do you people [college counselors] always push your best and brightest students to go to college when they could start making bank right out of high school?"

I bristled. I try very hard not to push my clients toward any particular choices, but to help them understand what their options are. I try to provide as much information for them, and teach them how to do research, so they can make great decisions for themselves.

But this gentleman had a point. Often, when students perform well academically in high school, people assume that the logical next step for them is college—often a highly selective (and likely expensive) one. But is that really the best choice for every student?

He went on to tell me that he earns between $250,000 and $300,000 a year as a machine operator. He said he knows welders who make $500,000. Granted, those are Canadian dollars he's talking about, but that's still really good money. He insisted that average salary statistics often don't tell the full story because they may not include overtime pay, pension, non-taxable living allowances, and other attractive benefits. He said there is huge demand for people in the trades, and smart people with certifications have a huge leg up on their competition because they bring a broader range of skills to the table.

"Encourage your students to research job ads," he said. "Have them get a feel for how in-demand the industry is. Get them to understand actual incomes that they can expect as a new hire versus a journeyman. Encourage them to reach out to union halls and get a feel for wages and benefits and actual work expectations."

These are great suggestions. I share this exchange because when I work with my clients, I have no agenda other than helping them get set up for a successful career and a fulfilling life. Our work together may take us to unexpected places, and I'm here for it.

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