There are many changes happening in education, and more and more students in Colorado are not sure if they want to go to a four-year college or university. While universities offer many opportunities, trade schools are rising in popularity as students seek more practical, hands-on training that leads to rewarding and high-paying careers. The shift from the traditional college route to trade school is increasingly attractive due to several factors, such as cost, time commitment, and job security.
The Appeal of Trade Schools in Colorado
Trade schools, also called trade schools or technical colleges, teach people how to do specific jobs. Some examples of these areas are construction, auto repair, healthcare, welding, and electrical work. One of the most significant advantages of trade schools is that students gain hands-on experience, which prepares them directly for the workforce upon graduation.
Faster Path to a Career: One of the most notable differences between trade schools and traditional colleges is the time commitment. While most bachelor’s degrees require four years of study, trade school programs typically range from six months to two years. This shorter time frame allows students to enter the workforce quickly and start earning money sooner than their college-bound peers.
For example, a student pursuing an electrical certification in Colorado can complete their program in less than two years, while students enrolled in a four-year college may still be in school. This quicker turnaround is not only for students eager to begin their careers but also for those who are looking to minimize educational costs and student loan debt.
Affordability: College tuition costs have been steadily increasing for decades, and many students are graduating with substantial student loan debt. According to the U.S. Department of Education, the average cost of a four-year college education is around $30,000 per year, not including living expenses. In contrast, trade school tuition is significantly lower, often costing between $5,000 and $15,000 for the entire program.
By choosing a trade school, students can avoid the financial burden of large student loans, which can take decades to repay. For students in Colorado, trade schools are becoming a much more cost-effective option. Trade school students can also get scholarships and other forms of financial aid, just like college students. This makes the road even easier to follow.
High Demand for Skilled Trades: There is a greater need for trained trade workers in Colorado and across the US. Over the next few years, there will be a greater need for electricians, plumbers, welders, HVAC techs, and healthcare workers as more people retire and more infrastructure projects are started. Over the next ten years, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) says that many skilled trade jobs will grow faster than the average for all jobs.
In Colorado, industries such as construction, renewable energy, and healthcare are booming, creating a strong demand for workers trained in these fields. Students who attend trade schools are positioned to fill these roles quickly, often with job offers upon graduation.
Job Security and Stability: While many graduates of four-year colleges face uncertainty in the job market, trade school graduates often enjoy more job security. The reason for this is simple: skilled trades cannot easily be outsourced or automated. In contrast to industries like technology or finance, which are vulnerable to global outsourcing or automation, trade jobs require physical labor and expertise that can only be performed on-site. For example, a plumber or electrician in Colorado cannot be replaced by a machine or outsourced to another country, ensuring long-term job stability for these workers.
Moreover, the COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the importance of essential workers, many of whom are employed in the skilled trades. As the world continues to navigate global challenges, these jobs have proven to be critical, providing job security even in times of crisis.
Higher Earning Potential: Contrary to the common belief that college graduates always earn more than trade school graduates, many skilled trade workers earn competitive salaries, sometimes surpassing their college-educated peers. For instance, electricians in Colorado can make an average salary of over $60,000 per year, with the potential to earn even more with experience or specialization.
In addition to competitive salaries, many trade careers offer opportunities for growth. For example, a journeyman plumber can eventually become a master plumber, opening the door to higher earnings and possibly even owning their own business. Trade school graduates also benefit from entering the workforce earlier, allowing them to gain valuable experience and start earning a paycheck while their college counterparts are still in school.
The Traditional College Path
While trade schools offer numerous advantages, it’s important to acknowledge the benefits of a traditional college education. For many students, a four-year degree is still the best option, particularly for those interested in fields like law, medicine, or engineering, where a college degree is required. College provides a broad educational foundation, helping students develop critical thinking skills and opening the door to a variety of career options.
However, college is not the only path to success, and for many Colorado students, trade school offers a more practical and affordable alternative. As the cost of college continues to rise, and as students face uncertainty in the job market after graduation, trade schools are becoming an increasingly attractive option.
Why More Colorado Students Are Choosing Trade Schools
Colorado students are turning to trade schools for a variety of reasons, and this shift is mirrored across the country. For students who prioritize entering the workforce quickly, minimizing debt, and gaining job security, trade schools offer a clear advantage. Additionally, the growing demand for skilled workers ensures that trade school graduates are well-positioned to find employment in high-paying, stable careers.
Media outlets like Los Angeleno have reported on this change in students’ educational choices, showing that even in big cities, students are choosing trade schools as a way to secure their careers without taking on huge amounts of student loan debt. This nationwide trend reflects changing attitudes toward education and the recognition that trade schools can offer rewarding, fulfilling careers.
Conclusion
The decision between trade school and college is deeply personal and depends on individual goals, interests, and financial situations. For Colorado students, trade schools offer a practical, affordable, and fast track to a successful career in a wide range of industries. With the demand for skilled trades continuing to rise, it’s no surprise that more students are choosing this path over traditional four-year colleges. As education continues to evolve, trade schools will play an increasingly important role in preparing students for the workforce of the future.
