You’ve decided to build a career in the skilled trades. A field where your talent, dedication, and hard work are in high demand. That’s a powerful first step. But what’s the next move? For many, the biggest question is how to get the right training.
Two main paths stand out: a formal apprenticeship or a technical college (tech school). Both will get you into the trades, but they do it in very different ways. At PeopleReady Skilled Trades (PRST), we work with top-tier tradespeople every day and we’re here to break down the pros and cons so you can choose the blueprint that’s right for you.
The Apprenticeship Program: Earn while you learn
Think of an apprenticeship as your on-the-job university. You are paired with experienced journeymen and masters, learning the trade from the ground up while working on real-world job sites.
Benefits
- Get paid from day one: This is the biggest draw. You’re not accumulating student debt; you’re earning a paycheck. Your wages start at an apprentice rate and increase as you gain skills and hours, culminating in a journeyman’s wage.
- Real-world, hands-on experience: You don’t just learn how to do something. You learn the why and when. You’ll encounter the same challenges, deadlines and problem-solving scenarios that define a long-term career.
- Direct mentorship: You learn from seasoned pros who have years of tricks and techniques you won’t find in any textbook. This mentorship is invaluable and builds a strong professional network.
- A direct path to a job: Most apprenticeships are sponsored by employers or unions. If you perform well, you often have a job waiting for you once you become a journeyman.
Considerations
- Slower start to full pay: While you earn from the beginning, it takes several years to reach the full journeyman wage.
- Competitive to get into: The best programs can have waiting lists or rigorous application processes.
- The grunt work: Everyone starts at the bottom. Be prepared for less glamorous tasks as you prove your worth and learn the fundamentals.
Tech School: Learn first, then earn
A technical or trade school provides a structured, classroom-based education where you focus on learning the theory and fundamentals of your chosen trade before you fully enter the workforce.
Benefits
- Focused, accelerated learning: You can immerse yourself in your education, often completing a program in 1-2 years. The curriculum is structured and comprehensive.
- Foundation of knowledge: You gain a deep understanding of the “why” behind the “how,” including crucial math, science and code requirements for your trade.
- Broad skill exposure: You’ll likely be trained on a wide range of equipment and techniques, giving you a well-rounded base before you specialize.
- A diploma in hand: Graduating with a certificate or degree can make your resume stand out immediately to employers.
Considerations
- Upfront cost: Tuition isn’t free, and many students take on debt to complete their schooling.
- Less on-the-job experience: While many programs include practicumsor structured work experience—the total hours of real-site experience will be less than in an apprenticeship.
- Delayed income: You are typically in a learning mode without a significant income until you graduate and secure your first job.
Which path is the right one for you?
So, which one is better? The truth is, it depends on your learning style and your current situation.
Choose an Apprenticeship if:
- You need to start earning money right away.
- You are a hands-on learner who thrives by doing.
- You value direct mentorship and learning on a live job site.
- You are highly motivated and can handle the initial “prove yourself” phase.
Choose a Tech School if:
- You prefer a structured, classroom-based learning environment.
- You want to build a strong theoretical foundation before heading to the worksite.
- You have the means (or financial aid) to focus on school full-time for a period.
- You want the credential of a diploma to boost your initial job prospects.
We’re here to help you build your career
No matter which path you choose, the goal is the same: to launch a successful, well-paid and rewarding career in the skilled trades.
At PRST, we connect skilled trades professionals with continuous work that matches their skillsets so they can start or build upon a rewarding career.
We see firsthand what employers are looking for and we’re here to connect you with the opportunities that fit your skills and ambitions.
Ready to take the next step? Reach out to our team today.
