What the Increased Demand for Tradespeople Means for Our Students

The trade industry is experiencing a surge in demand as many skilled workers retire or “age out” and leave a gap in the workforce. This trend is expected to continue in the coming years, creating a demand for new workers to fill these positions. With competitive salaries, job security, and opportunities for growth and advancement, pursuing a career in a trade can be an excellent choice for students who are looking for a stable and rewarding career path. 

Options Schools’ dual credit programs can help students prepare for a career in the trades by providing them with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in this growing industry. In this post, we’ll explore what the increased demand for tradespeople means for students and how Options Schools can help prepare them for success. Check out what dual credit offerings are available through Options Schools for students throughout Indiana.

Benefits of Pursuing a Career in the Trades

Pursuing a career in the trades can be a smart choice for students, especially as many skilled workers are currently aging out of the workforce for many in-demand trades. According to a report by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median age of workers in construction and extraction occupations was 42.4 years in 2020. As these workers retire, there will be a growing need for new workers to fill their positions. This presents an opportunity for students who are interested in pursuing a career in these trades & more.

In addition to job security and opportunities for growth and advancement, many trade careers offer highly competitive salaries. For example, the median annual wage for electricians was $56,900 in 2020. By participating in Options Schools’ dual credit programs through J. Everett Light Career Center, students can gain the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in a number of trades and take advantage of these opportunities to enter a trade soon after graduating from Options with their high school diploma.

Options Schools’ Dual Credit Programs

Options offers dual credit programs that can help students prepare for a career in a number of potential career paths and trades. In fact, Options Schools offers a collection of 28 college and career pathways, and within those pathways, 111 pathway courses are available to students. Additionally, students can earn up to 80 Ivy Tech dual credits and 29 certifications. This means that students can earn college credit while still in high school, which can save them time and money in the long run.

With the help of Options Schools’ Advanced Learning Specialist, Rob Stewart, students can choose the pathway that best fits their interests and career goals. Options places focus on these trade fields: human social services, computer science, and business classes. By participating in these dual credit programs, students can gain the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in the trades and beyond. You can view the full list of course offerings here!

Gain Valuable Skills & Knowledge in the Trades with Options Schools

Options Schools’ dual credit programs provide students with a unique opportunity to gain valuable skills and knowledge in the trades while still in high school. This can be especially beneficial for students who are interested in pursuing a career in the trades but may not have access to resources or training outside of school. With a variety of college and career pathways to choose from, students can explore their interests and find a pathway that aligns with their career goals. Additionally, by earning up to 80 Ivy Tech dual credits and 29 certifications, students can jumpstart their careers and save time and money in the long run. This can give them a competitive advantage when applying for jobs or pursuing higher education.

To learn more about these programs and how they can benefit you, visit Options Schools’ website. With our expertise and guidance, students can make informed decisions about their career paths and get the support they need to succeed. Don’t miss out on this chance to take your first step towards a successful career in the trades with Options Schools!