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Tag: the trades

  • Non-Physical Trade Jobs

    Non-Physical Trade Jobs

    Right after leaving high school many students are looking into possible college and university options. Though, for many graduating high school students, jobs in the trades are a great opportunity to work with your hands, earn a good salary, and help those around you.

    For some students, however, getting involved in the trades means having to work too much with your hands, dealing with physical labour, and doing jobs that have been stigmatized over the years. While it’s true that many trades jobs involve labour and tougher working conditions, there are plenty of trades jobs that are on the non-physical side.

    A construction manager is one particular job in the trades industry that requires more planning and coordinating various construction projects. In order to achieve the title, you’d need to earn a Bachelor’s degree, achieve certification and work your way to the top by going back for a Master’s degree. While a Master’s isn’t required, it has the potential to help boost your career. It’s worth noting that at least five years’ experience in construction is required in order to become a manager. Though, if you accomplish all you need to, you could be making close to $90,000 a year.

    Construction experience can also lead to becoming a home inspector. Much like a manager, a degree and experience in the field is required. You’ll also need to know regulation codes and knowledge in real estate practices also comes in handy. Salaries can range from $30,000 – $80,000.

    Various technicians don’t require too much physical labour but there’s still a bunch of responsibility involved. For example, a manufacturing production technician ensures the quality of products and making sure that they live up to health and safety regulations. One of the first steps to becoming a manufacturing technician is to earn your GED. In some companies, if you have your GED and manufacturing experience, that’s all the experience required to get your foot in the door. Manufacturing technicians can earn anywhere from $40,000 – $60,000 a year.

    There are also plenty of jobs available in the industrial trades. Computer programming is a viable field for those interested technology. One of the first steps to becoming a programmer is to earn a degree. Some companies may only require an associate degree but many places ask that an applicant have a degree from a four-year college. Like any job, it’s suggested that you continue to enhance your skills and learning in order to further your career and skills as a programmer. The average salary for this career is near $70,000.

    While the trades may not be for everyone, educating yourself on the various jobs available opens plenty of doors for entering the field. You also don’t need to get involved in a trades career that is too physical and looking into the multiple careers available is your best way to learning about what’s out there.

    Sources:

    http://study.com/articles/How_to_Become_a_Certified_Construction_Manager.html

    http://www.trade-schools.net/articles/trade-school-jobs.asp

    http://www.wisegeek.net/how-do-i-become-a-production-technician.htm

    https://www.recruiter.com/salaries/manufacturing-production-technicians-salary/

    http://www.learnhowtobecome.org/computer-programmer/

    http://www.home-inspectors.com/busopp.htm

    https://www.theworkingcentre.org/types-trades/393

  • Running a Business in the Trades

    Running a Business in the Trades

    Do you want to pursue a career in the trades, and prefer to be your own boss? Starting and running your own business in the trades might be a good option for you.

    Though some of the particulars may differ depending on the trade you pursue – like carpentry, electrical, or plumbing– many parts of running a business remain the same.

    If you are thinking of starting a trades business, you likely already have experience working in a trade and want to pursue it further. Before starting your business, make sure you have all the education, skills and licenses to work in your trade. This can include college programs, apprenticeships, work experience, and any necessary local or provincial regulatory licensing. You may also want to register with your local and provincial trade union, as these groups can be a good resource when you need help or information.

    The process of setting yourself up as an entrepreneur usually involves creating your own company. You can have a sole proprietorship (just you), or some form of partnership agreement (you and one or more other tradespeople, business people, administrative, etc.).

    You will need to register a business name and number with Service Canada. This number is required for most dealings that involve your business, especially for work permits and taxes.You will also need to use this business number to open bank accounts for your company. It is recommended to keep all business finances separate from your personal accounts.

    Make sure you have a very clear idea of what service you plan to offer. For example, if you want to run a carpentry business, you need to decide if you will specialize in a specific task, such as detail work like cabinetry, trim, stairs and railings, or rough work such as framing and roofing.

    Once you decide what your business will focus on, it is time for the most important part of any business: the business plan. A business plan is a document that you research and compile, which sets out your goals, product or service offerings, finances, and plans for future growth. This document is essential to directing the course of your company, and any banks or financial investors will require it. Ask yourself a few questions like; what will make my business special from others? What is my target market? What kind of prices will I charge for my company’s services?
    Networking is important and will lead to potential clients. Talk up your company and skills when you meet people in your trade industry. Attend trade-shows or conventions related to your trade, and those related to other trades. You may be running a plumbing business, but it can be helpful to meet people in other trades like construction – you never know where you might find your next customer!

    Another key factor to running your business is to market yourself and your skills. These days, you will need a website that details your business, the skills and services you offer, and even list prices or quotes to help gain customers.

    Once you are working jobs, make sure to build your reputation – do quality work at a good price, be on time to start and finish projects, and treat your customers well. After the job is done, the best thing to do is ask for a client review; good words go a long way!