Responsible Decision-Making
Trading College for a Trade
Project and Purpose
There are many high earning careers that do not require a four-year college degree, students will answer questions and learn about career possibilities that may not require a college diploma.
Video Overview:
When it comes to career plans, Travis, a high school senior, intends to become an auto mechanic for Mercedes.
“From what I’ve been told their first year they make around 40-thousand and then it just continuously goes up from there with more certifications and experience,” says Travis, age 18.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of auto service technicians and mechanics is expected to increase by almost 36,000 jobs through 2018. More entry-level workers will be needed, especially as the average lifespan of our vehicles is increasing.
But some kids think repairing cars is beneath them.“It is something that is for certain populations frowned upon because it is not considered more of a professional job. But those jobs can be very well paying depending on what you want to do and your skill level,” says Debbie Brown, a career coach.Ms. Brown says while some blue collar jobs are disappearing or getting out-sourced, like manufacturing and textiles, others … like plumbing, carpentry, and electrical work, pay well and are in demand. “If your car breaks down, you have to get it serviced if you want
it to keep running. So sometimes people will put off repairs for a little bit, but they can’t put them off for too long.”What’s more, some students will enjoy physical jobs where they can work with their hands.“And there’s so many people who are just not suited to sitting in front of a desk,” adds Ms. Brown. She says—-if students choose a trade instead of college—- parents and counselors should help guide them get the best possible training.
But some kids think repairing cars is beneath them.“It is something that is for certain populations frowned upon because it is not considered more of a professional job. But those jobs can be very well paying depending on what you want to do and your skill level,” says Debbie Brown, a career coach.Ms. Brown says while some blue collar jobs are disappearing or getting out-sourced, like manufacturing and textiles, others … like plumbing, carpentry, and electrical work, pay well and are in demand. “If your car breaks down, you have to get it serviced if you want
it to keep running. So sometimes people will put off repairs for a little bit, but they can’t put them off for too long.”What’s more, some students will enjoy physical jobs where they can work with their hands.“And there’s so many people who are just not suited to sitting in front of a desk,” adds Ms. Brown. She says—-if students choose a trade instead of college—- parents and counselors should help guide them get the best possible training.
“Find out what the best trade and technical schools are in your community (cut to) Talk to these people, find out the best match in terms of the program for them and get them into the best programs,” she recommends
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Trading College for a Trade
Discussion and Self-Reflection Questions
- What jobs do Melissa and Ingrid list as those you can get without an education?
- According to Martin Segura of Operation Bright Future, what is the average salary for a 21-to 24-year-old who DID NOT graduate from high school? What is the average salary of a 21-to 24-year-old who DID graduate from high school? What is the numerical difference?
- What does this last comment in the video mean to you: And later on is the rest of your life?
- What things would you like to have in the future ((consider both things you can buy and things you would like to attain, such as parenthood)? Are those things attainable without a high school education? Why?
