You want a career—not just a job. But a lot of people have told you the only way to get there is four long years of college, taking a lot of courses that you could care less about. One of the best reasons to consider a vocational career is that you can get where you want to be more quickly—learning and earning while your peers are sitting and studying. But there are other good reasons a vocational career might be good for you.

1. Vocational Training Teaches You In-Demand Skills

There is a skilled labor shortage in the U.S. With older workers retiring and fewer young people choosing Trades for a career, many of these professions are in high demand. Plumbers and electricians, for example, are expected to see higher than average job growth through 2028. What that means for you is that there may be more opportunities to find an actual job in your new career if you have the right skills. Can your Philosophy major friend right out of college say the same?

2. Vocational Training and Careers Are Hands-On and Physical

Do you want to sit at a desk for the next 20 years? Or would you prefer a career that allows you to use your brain and your hands. Vocational careers often require you to be active. Whether you install HVAC systems, fix plumbing, or run electrical wiring, you’ll be up and moving, using your hands. Using your muscles every day, it’s a free gym workout without the gym.

3. Vocational Training Shows Your Problem-Solving Skills

Many vocational careers require you to take lessons you may have learned and apply them to the real world. But things don’t always go textbook perfect. If you’re good at figuring out puzzles, a vocational career could be a great fit to your natural talents. Tricky installation? You can figure it out. Busted AC on a hot day? No problem. Wacky wiring in a hundred-year-old home? You’ve got this!

4. Vocational Careers Require Independence

Many of the tasks you’ll perform during your vocational career will require you to perform a job on your own. At the beginning you’ll work under the supervision of an expert. But once you know your stuff, you’ll be able to do much of the job by yourself. And when you’re fully licensed, you can take your skills and work on your own. Whether it’s an occasional side job or the start of your own company, your training and skills can even help you become self-employed!

5. Training for a Vocational Career Can Be Quick

Many vocational training programs take less than two years to complete. At Porter and Chester Institute, our training programs in the Automotive Technology, Electronics Systems, HVACR, Plumbing, and Electrician fields can all be completed in as little as one year!

6. Vocational Career Training Doesn’t Require Unrelated Courses

To excel in your vocational career, you may need to take continuing education courses and licensing exams. But those programs and courses and tests are all related to what you do in your job. There’s no History of Western Civilization or Bagpiping 101. What you need to learn in school to have a vocational career is all about the vocation you choose.

Porter and Chester Institute in Connecticut and Massachusetts offers career training programs with curricula based on the needs of our students and area employers. Contact us today for more information.