Career and Technical Education: A Comprehensive Outlook

An increasing number of students are debating whether getting a college degree is worth it, considering trade job options instead. Trade schools typically offer shorter programs (around two years), lower student debt, and higher job demand than most college degrees. The promise of sure employment and a steady career path is attractive. This article discusses the pros and cons of trade school jobs, the skills needed, how to choose between college and trade schools, job options and salaries, and other aspects to help you make an informed decision.

Understanding Career and Technical Education (CTE)

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Career and technical education (CTE) teachers provide training in subjects such as auto repair, cosmetology, and culinary arts. CTE teachers help students explore and prepare to enter a career or technical occupation. They use a variety of teaching methods to help students learn and develop skills related to a specific occupation or career field. They demonstrate tasks, techniques, and tools used in an occupation. They may assign hands-on tasks, such as replacing brakes on cars, taking blood pressure, or applying makeup.

Key Aspects of Trade School Jobs

Salary Expectations

Salaries in skilled trades and technical support can range from $50,000 to $69,000. Examples include aircraft mechanics ($64,000), commercial divers ($54,000), computer network support specialists ($63,000), and paralegals and legal assistants ($52,000). Advanced or specialist trades, such as aerospace engineering and operations technicians ($67,000) and dental hygienists ($77,000), can reach the $70,000 range. Even higher salaries are earned by radiation protection technologists ($80,000) and construction managers ($97,000).

Cost of Trade School

Trade school program costs range from $1,000 to $30,000, significantly less than a four-year college program.

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Job Market Growth

Almost all trade school jobs are expected to increase in demand in the next decade. The top expected growth occupations include physical therapy assistants (33%), dental hygienists (13%), and paralegals and legal assistants (10%).

Work-Life Balance

Work-life balance varies depending on the type of field and employer.

Trade School vs. Traditional College Degree

An increasing number of students are debating whether it is worth getting a college degree and are considering trade job options instead. Aside from the shorter duration of around two years, trade school typically has much lower student debt and a higher job demand than most college degrees. Sure employment and a steady career path is attractive, and in this article, we will discuss the pros and cons of trade school jobs, what skills you need, how to choose between college and trade schools, job options and salaries, and other aspects to help you make an informed decision.

Essential Skills for Trade School Jobs

Technical Skills

Technical skills are crucial for performing job-specific tasks. Examples include:

Electricians: Installing, testing, and maintaining electrical systems.
Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters: Installing pipes for various substances and maintaining plumbing systems.
Diagnostic Medical Sonographers: Operating imaging equipment to capture accurate images for diagnostic purposes.
Pile Driver Operators: Operating machines to hammer piles into the ground for structural support.

Soft Skills

Soft skills are equally important for effective communication, collaboration, and problem-solving. Examples include:

Interpersonal and Communication Skills: Essential for dental hygienists and radiation therapists to provide patient care and education.
Analytical and Coordination Skills: Necessary for logisticians to ensure efficient supply chains.
Communication Skills: Required for occupational health and safety technicians to communicate safety instructions and concerns.
Problem-Solving Skills: Essential for electricians and plumbers to troubleshoot and address issues.

Exploring High-Paying Trade School Jobs

Whether you want to pursue a career in medicine, information technology, culinary arts, or any other industry, there are plenty of high-paying trade school jobs that you can look into, some of which are considered the highest paying trades. Below is a trade school careers list, composed of some of the most lucrative options based on median annual salary and job outlook from 2020 to 2023. All the data has been sourced from the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook which was updated in 2021.

Digital Designers and Web Developers

Digital designers and web developers create and maintain websites, ensuring they are visually appealing and functional. Their roles may be different but they typically work together in computer systems design and related services industry. Digital designers and web developers may work in the publishing industry, advertising, and management consulting. A high school diploma or some postsecondary or vocational education is required to be qualified for this job. Most web developers and digital designers also pursue a bachelor’s degree for career advancement.

Dental Hygienists

When it comes to assisting dentists in maintaining oral hygiene, dental hygienists are the ones checking patients for signs of oral disease. Dental hygienists provide preventive care and also teach patients how to keep their teeth healthy. Dental hygienists typically have an associate degree, which usually takes three years to complete. Most states require dental hygienists to be licensed. Dental hygienists are skilled in assessing the oral health of patients. In some states, dental hygienists are allowed to work even without the supervision of a dentist. They are very familiar with dental procedures and are problem solvers. Dental hygienists also possess interpersonal and communication skills, both verbal and non-verbal, which is very important in providing their services. The job outlook for dental hygienists is 11%.

Building and Home Inspectors

The projection for building and home inspector occupation is declining at -3% through 2030. This projection, however, is dependent on the demand of employers. If you will take the path of an independent contractor, this career can be very promising. Purchasing a property is a major investment and inspectors are often sought to assess the integrity of the property to make sure that there are no underlying issues. Home and building inspectors typically check the property’s foundation, the heating, and cooling systems, the structural integrity, and will also check for any code violations. Building and home inspectors typically need a high school diploma, plus relevant experience in the construction trade. On-the-job experience is often the key to achieving competency. Most states require home and building inspectors to have a license or certification.

Electricians

Electricians are typically graduates of trade schools where they learn how to install, test, and maintain electrical systems. Their skills are further honed through apprenticeships. Most electricians work full-time and are always on-call. They are troubleshooters and problem-solvers and are always learning new things on the job. Electricians may work indoors and even outdoors to be able to provide power systems to structures and other areas that need electrical systems. One of the major responsibilities of an electrician is to ensure that electrical designs and systems in homes and buildings comply with all the relevant codes. They are also skilled in reading blueprints and schematics. The job outlook for electricians is 9%.

Read also: Career Paths Without a Degree

Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters

To learn the pipefitter trade, one may take the path of apprenticeship, or take a combination of on-the-job and trade school training. Plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters install pipes that may carry acids, gases, and chemicals. They also work in large office buildings and power plants in which their role is to maintain the plumbing for heating and cooling systems. Solid knowledge of hydraulic (water) pressure and pneumatic (air) pressure is required, as well as skills in electronic controls. Plumbers are also very adept at following building plans and blueprints. Aside from their technical skills, plumbers are also great collaborators as they often work with general contractors, electricians, and other construction professionals. The job outlook for plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters is 5%.

Air Traffic Controllers

What is the highest paying trade school job? A common answer is air traffic controllers. These professionals are in charge of coordinating the movement of aircraft to ensure that safe distances are maintained. Maximum concentration is required from air traffic controllers as they work in control towers, approach control facilities, and route centers. An associate degree is typically required for this job. The Air Traffic Collegiate Training Initiative program is an example of a training program for students that desire to work as air traffic controllers. The job outlook for air traffic controllers is 4%.

Computer Programmers

Writing and testing codes that ensure the smooth execution of software and applications is the main role of the computer programmer. While the job outlook for programmers is projected to decline through 2030, computer programming is still one of the best paying trade jobs available, and learning a new programming language holds the key to being able to thrive in this lucrative industry. Typically engaged in computer systems design, computer programmers have an associate’s degree while some have a bachelor’s degree. Employers typically prefer hiring programmers that specialize in specific programming languages. Computer programmers are highly analytical and detail-oriented. The job outlook for computer programmers is -10%.

Elevator and Escalator Installers and Repairers

Typically on-call 24 hours a day, elevator and escalator installers and repairers have acquired the necessary mechanical skills to install, fix, and maintain elevators through apprenticeships. These professionals have one of the best trade school jobs in terms of annual compensation. The apprenticeship program usually lasts for four years, each year requiring a predetermined number of hours of technical instruction and paid on-the-job training, which is the meaning of OJT. Elevator and escalator installers and repairers keep an accurate record of job orders and maintenance, they know how to use a variety of power tools used in installing and fixing elevators and escalators. They are also skilled in troubleshooting elevator and escalator malfunctions. Typically working in cramped areas, elevator and escalator installers and repairers must be physically fit as their job requires lifting heavy materials. During training, apprentices learn about safety, blueprint reading, mathematics, applied physics, elevator and escalator parts, electrical and digital theory, and electronics. The job outlook for elevator and escalator installers and repairers is 6%.

Radiation Therapists

Having one of the trade school jobs that pay well, radiation therapists facilitate the treatment of cancer and other diseases through the use of radiation technology. Typically, radiation therapists have an associate’s degree, but some also have a bachelor’s degree. In most states, radiation therapists are required to secure a license to practice. Radiation therapists are detail-oriented because they perform extremely sensitive procedures. They are skilled in operating medical equipment and possess the physical stamina needed for the job. Radiation therapists are also experts in interpersonal communication because they have to make patients feel at ease all the time for the procedure to be conducted properly. The job outlook for radiation therapists is 9%.

Nuclear Medicine Technologists

A nuclear medicine technologist prepares and administers radioactive drugs in medical procedures. As graduates of accredited nuclear medicine technology programs, nuclear medicine technologists have obtained a certificate, associate, or bachelor’s degree. Since nuclear medicine technologists perform very precise procedures that involve highly toxic substances, they are required to have a license in most states. Nuclear medicine technologists are knowledgeable in human anatomy, physiology, and other sciences. This is important because determining the right dosage is crucial for every patient. They are highly analytical and detail-oriented, but compassionate and emphatic to patients at the same time. The job outlook for nuclear medicine technologists is 8%.

Logisticians

One of the fastest-growing trade jobs in 2021 is that of a logistician, who plays a crucial role in every organization’s operations. They ensure that supply chains are working efficiently as otherwise it would have a significant effect on overall profitability. Analysis and coordination are the major skills of a logistician. They should also have superior organizational and problem-solving skills. While a bachelor’s degree is offered in preparation for this role, an associate’s degree has typically been sufficient for employers that put more weight on apprenticeship. Previous work experience in a field related to logistics, supply chains, or business can be put in place of a specific degree. Although certification is not required to land a job in this field, it can be a ticket to career advancement. The job outlook for logisticians is 30%.

Diagnostic Medical Sonographers

Diagnostic medical sonographers employ a combination of soft and hard skills in performing their job. Working with patients requires interpersonal skills, and conducting the imaging procedure requires technical skills to get the most accurate images for diagnostic purposes. In performing diagnostic imaging, these professionals move the equipment and capture key images, requiring superior hand-eye coordination. Since they operate special imaging equipment, diagnostic medical sonographers are required to earn professional certification. Diagnostic medical sonographers need formal education, such as an associate’s degree or a postsecondary certificate. Specific courses in human anatomy and physiology are required for this job. The job outlook for diagnostic medical sonographers is 14%.

Occupational Health and Safety Technicians

Occupational health and safety technicians analyze work environments and procedures by collecting data. They typically work in the manufacturing sector where they evaluate the operations of manufacturing facilities. Occupational health and safety technicians are certificate program or associate’s degree completers, while some have postsecondary education and apprenticeship. They are required to have professional certifications from the Board of Certified Safety Professionals and the American Board of Industrial Hygiene. Occupational health and safety technicians must be good communicators because they must be able to communicate safety instructions and concerns to employees and managers. They work with complex testing equipment and also educate organizations on how to follow safety standards and complex government regulations. To become a qualified occupational health and safety technician, you must have at least an associate’s degree or certificate from a community college or vocational school. The job outlook for occupational health and safety technicians is 7%.

Pile Driver Operators

This job requires highly technical skills as pile driver operators operate machines that hammer piles into the ground to support building foundations, bridges, and piers. using pedals and levels, pile driver operators work from machine cabs to direct operation and move heavy materials at construction sites and mining sites. The job outlook for pile driver operators is 15%.

Career and Technical Education Teachers

Career and technical education teachers instruct students in various technical and vocational subjects, such as auto repair, healthcare, and culinary arts. Career and technical education teachers help students explore and prepare to enter a specific occupation, in fields such as healthcare or information technology. They use a variety of teaching techniques to help students learn and develop skills related to a specific career or field of study. They demonstrate tasks, techniques, and tools used in an occupation. They may assign hands-on tasks, such as replacing brakes on cars, taking blood pressure, or recording vital signs. Teachers typically oversee these tasks in workshops and laboratories in the school. Some teachers work with local businesses and nonprofit organizations to provide practical work experience for students. They also serve as advisers to students participating in career and technical student organizations. The specific duties of career and technical education teachers vary by the grade and subject they teach. In middle schools and high schools, they teach general concepts in a classroom and practical exercises in workshops and laboratories. In postsecondary schools, they teach specific career skills that help students earn a certificate, a diploma, or an associates degree, and prepare them for a specific job. For example, welding instructors teach students various welding techniques and essential safety practices. They also monitor the use of tools and equipment, and have students practice procedures until they meet the specific standards required by the trade. In most states, teachers in middle and high schools teach one subject within the 16 major career fields, also known as Career Clusters. For example, the Career Cluster known as architecture and construction includes instruction in designing, planning, managing, building, and maintaining structures. Teachers of courses in agricultural, food, and natural resources teach topics such as agricultural production; agriculture-related business; veterinary science; and plant, animal, and food systems. For example, they may have students plant and care for crops and tend to animals so that students can apply what they have learned in the classroom. Career and technical education teachers in hospitality and tourism teach students in subjects such as nutrition, culinary arts, and hotel lodging.Career and technical education teachers held about 239,600 jobs in 2024. Career and technical education teachers typically work in middle, high, and postsecondary schools, such as 2-year colleges. Career and technical education teachers in middle and high schools generally work during school hours. Teachers usually work the traditional 10-month school year and have a 2-month break during the summer. They also have a short midwinter break.Career and technical education teachers typically need at least a bachelor’s degree and work experience in the subject they teach. States may require career and technical education teachers in public schools to be licensed or certified. Career and technical education teachers who prepare students for an occupation that requires a license or certification may need to have and maintain the same credential. For example, career and technical education teachers who teach welding may need to have certification in welding. Some states offer an alternative route to certification or licensure for prospective teachers who have a bachelor’s degree or work experience in their field but lack the education courses required for certification. Teachers may become school counselors, instructional coordinators, or principals. These positions generally require additional education, an advanced degree, or certification.The median annual wage for career and technical education teachers was $62,910 in May 2024. All of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to other occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire. Some demand for these workers is expected over the projections decade due to continued interest in career and technical education programs. In addition, public schools often depend on government funding for career and technical education programs.

Apprenticeship Programs: A Pathway to Mastery

Apprenticeship programs combine on-the-job training with technical instruction, allowing individuals to earn while they learn.

Elevator and escalator installers and repairers acquire their skills through apprenticeships, which typically last four years. Apprentices learn about safety, blueprint reading, mathematics, applied physics, elevator and escalator parts, electrical and digital theory, and electronics.

The Role of Career and Technical Education Teachers

Career and technical education teachers play a crucial role in preparing students for specific occupations. They use various teaching methods, including hands-on tasks, demonstrations, and practical work experience, to help students develop the necessary skills. These teachers often work in middle, high, and postsecondary schools, teaching subjects such as auto repair, cosmetology, and culinary arts.

Responsibilities of CTE Teachers

Instructing students in technical and vocational subjects.
Demonstrating tasks, techniques, and tools used in an occupation.
Assigning hands-on tasks in workshops and laboratories.
Working with local businesses to provide practical work experience.
Serving as advisors to students participating in career and technical student organizations.

Education and Training

Career and technical education teachers typically need at least a bachelor’s degree and work experience in the subject they teach. States may require CTE teachers in public schools to be licensed or certified. Those who prepare students for occupations requiring a license or certification may need to hold the same credential.

Challenges and Opportunities in CTE

Historical Context and Modern Concerns

In history, vocational education was used as a tool for racial and class stratification. Immigrants, low-income youth, and students of color were disproportionately tracked into low-level vocational programs regarded as “dumping grounds” for those deemed incapable of academic success.

Parents have voiced concerns that CTE can lock students into rigid, corporatized career tracks rather than empowering students with adaptable skills. In Virginia, Sara Ward described how her son, formerly part of a gifted and talented program, was steered into a Ford Motor Company sponsored curriculum with “no way to opt out.” Instead of exploring advanced math concepts, his courses focused narrowly on applied math including manufacturing and accounting. “I want my child to decide how he’s going to use math, not to be told what to do with math,” Ward said. She ultimately pulled her son out of the public school system entirely.

The Potential of Well-Designed CTE Programs

But CTE has the potential to broaden students’ horizons rather than narrow them. When designed well, programs can equip students with real-world skills while keeping open doors to college and long-term career mobility. California’s Climate Action Pathways for Schools (CAPS) is a standout example. Created by a local solar engineer, CAPS prepares high school students for careers in sustainability and environmental technology. CAPS students train for paid internships where they help schools lower their carbon footprints, support electric bus infrastructure, and educate peers about climate change and sustainability. In Massachusetts, state-approved CTE programs must ensure that students are prepared to enter advanced employment opportunities after high school and to pursue post-secondary education if they so choose. Colorado offers a promising regional model where nine rural districts partnered with higher education and business leaders to expand academic and career pathways.

The Future of CTE

As student debt soars and trust in higher education erodes, CTE is increasingly being sold as the solution. Students and workers deserve more than narrow job pipelines dictated by corporate interests. The future of CTE is up for grabs. Labor organizers, educators, parents, and students must advocate not just for access to these programs, but for control over what they are designed to achieve.

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