About Building Trade Colleges
Building trade colleges provide necessary skills to the individual who wants to work in the construction industry. They provide skilled instructors and hands-on equipment operation along with the necessary educational knowledge that will be required in the field, such as mathematics. The graduate receives an Associates in Occupational Studies and will be prepared to take on any construction job with the knowledge that he or she has the skills required.
What education is required to enroll in a building trade college?
To enroll in any college, the student must have a diploma or the equivalent of a diploma (GED). It is possible to serve an apprenticeship while still in high school; however, to gain a college degree, the student will have to attend and fulfill the required courses.
Where to find building trade colleges?
In some states and counties, a community college will offer programs to students for building trade courses. Most offer automotive, air conditioning and electrical studies; however, there are trade-specific colleges available in several states such as Georgia, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, West Virginia and Texas. There are also courses in construction management, air conditioning and other areas for management positions.
Courses of knowledge offered through building trade schools
Trade schools offer studies taught by professors, associate professors and instructors in the following areas:
- Construction
- Carpentry
- Pipefitting
- Plumbing
- Tile setting
- Masonry
- Heavy equipment
- Management
Length of Training
Unlike many other college degrees, the trade school's degrees can be acquired in a much shorter time frame. As a rule, they are far less expensive and can be a much faster means to a higher-paying employment opportunity.
Expected Pay Scale
The average annual income for a Mason is a mean wage of $46,000, although a senior brick layer can expect to make $57,000. The average for an entry-level carpenter is $39,000, while the experienced carpenter makes approximately $48,000 annually. The entry-level electrician makes an average of $46,000, and an entry-level crane operator can expect to make $42,000. While much of the construction industry has seen a decline in available work, there is still a high demand for electricians, crane operators, and many more construction-related jobs.
Is it really necessary to attend a college to work in building trades?
Some portions of the construction industry do not require a degree for the individual to be hired; however, many parts of the trade require licensing. To operate heavy equipment, install air conditioning, plumbing, or to lay brick, the individual must be licensed or trained. Many of the building codes and insurance companies through regulations require that only licensed individual be employed to fulfill the duties required for the job. Without licensed employees, an accident or mistake could cause the contractor to lose his business or pay steep fines.