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Trade Schools & Apprenticeships

WHAT IS A TRADE SCHOOL?
Trade schools, also known as vocational schools, prepare students to enter career fields that require specialized training. Professionals who attend trade school include electricians, dental hygienists, veterinary technicians and plumbers. Trade school programs are relatively affordable and highly specialized alternatives to four-year colleges and universities.
 
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN TRADE SCHOOL AND COLLEGE?
There are several differences between trade school and college. The key difference between the two is that trade school coursework trains learners for very specific careers. College courses, on the other hand, provide students with the general skills necessary to become well-rounded learners. A history major in a traditional four-year college, for example, takes supplemental courses in math, sciences, English and other subjects. Trade school students don’t need to take classes outside of their field of study. A student learning to become a plumber, for instance, enrolls only in courses related to the installation, maintenance, extension and alteration of a plumbing system.
 
WHAT ARE EXAMPLES OF VOCATIONAL EDUCATION?
Many vocational programs are available. Some of the most common include:
  • Medical assisting
  • Pharmacy technicians
  • Dental assisting
  • Massage therapy
  • Cosmetology
  • Plumbing
  • Electricians
  • Paralegals
  • Veterinary technicians
  • Respiratory therapy
  • Culinary arts
 
HOW TO APPLY TO A VOCATIONAL/TRADE SCHOOL
- Before applying, make sure the school offers exactly what you're looking for.
- Speak to the admissions counselors at the school to determine which jobs the program will qualify you for.
- Complete an online application on their website.
- Most schools do not have an application deadline. You can apply at any time.
WHAT IS AN APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAM?
Apprenticeship programs combine on the job training and classroom instruction and you can get PAID - "earn while you learn." Certificate and degree programs are also available at local community colleges. The following website lists all apprenticeship programs in California: www.calapprenticeship.org 
 
WHAT ARE SOME EXAMPLES OF APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAMS?
  • Boilmakers
  • Carpenters
  • Electricians
  • HVAC 
  • Insulation workers, mechanical
  • Ironworkers
  • Masonry workers
  • Plumbers, pipefitters and steamfitters
  • Sheet metal workers
  • Welders
  • Linemen
 
HOW TO APPLY TO AN APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAM
Generally to apply for an apprecnticeship, an applicant must:
- Be 18 years of age
- Have a high school diploma or the equivalent
- Possess the aptitude, interest and physical ability to succeed
- Be willing to work in th eenvironment of the craft or trade
- Have good math skills
 
In addition, reading, writing, and speaking skills are also important in many of the trades. High school classes containing the components of computer graphics, mechanical drawing, blueprint reading, drafting, electricity, welding, chemistry, and higher math are valuable.
 
If you are interested in an apprenticeship program, you should contact an employer in the trade, the appropriate union, or the Division of Apprenticeship Standards in the California Department of Industrial Relations