College education is important. However, it’s also very expensive. And with the economic recession straining the finances of many families, college education has become even more difficult to afford.
Rising student loan debt has been an increasing problem among college students. Even worse, many students end up dropping out of college for financial reasons. But by the time they do drop out, they may have already incurred a significant amount of student loan debt. Without a degree, college dropouts aren’t able to find jobs that with salaries high enough to pay their student loans. A growing number of high school students are turning to apprenticeship programs for in-demand trade jobs to avoid the student debt dilemma.
Incentives for looking into trade jobs over college
Training and apprenticeship programs for the best trade jobs are much more affordable than going to college. They are also short-term. Students can enter the workforce and earn regular income much earlier.
In addition, government investments have increased the demand for skilled trade workers such as carpenters, welders, electricians and solar-panel installers. Therefore, the likelihood of finding employment after training is very high in these fields.
Trade jobs now, college later?
Avoiding debt, earning income and building financial stability seems to be the priority list in these times. High school students who choose trade jobs over college seem to be reflecting this mind set. This new trend is based on the need to cope with the tough economy.
The good news is that there is no age limit for college. High school students who choose to enter the field of skilled trades to earn money can decide to go back to college if they want to pursue new career directions.
With the advent of online degrees, skilled trade workers won’t have to quit their jobs to earn the degrees they want. Therefore, they can continue to earn income while they study, making college education more affordable.
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