What are the trades?
The trades are a diverse range of skilled occupations that require hands-on expertise and specialized knowledge. These occupations don’t usually require a traditional college education and instead often involve vocational training or apprenticeships.
The trades include a wide variety of fields like carpenters, electricians, plumbers, HVAC technicians, auto mechanics, machinists, automotive trades, plumbing, welding and metalwork, culinary arts, hairdressing and cosmetology, agricultural, aircraft maintenance, and of course, commercial fishing.
What does it mean to support the trades?
I proudly sport a "Support Blue Collar" sticker on the back of my truck, but it's critical to clarify its meaning. While many discuss the importance of backing the trades, it's essential to articulate the specifics of this support to ensure we address the real needs effectively.
The first step is awareness. Acknowledge the important role that trades play in our economy, society, and well-being. The trade industry harvests food for us to eat, distributes all of the products that we depend on (and even the stuff we don’t need), builds our homes, fixes our appliances, makes sure there’s power when we flip a switch, fixes our vehicles, and so much more. Our economy and society hinge on the vital contributions of these industries and the dedicated individuals who form its backbone.
Give your kids the chance to explore the world of trades from an early age. Numerous high schools offer vocational programs, and there are often technical schools in close proximity to local traditional schools. If your child shows an interest in this type of alternative education, encourage and support their curiosity and enthusiasm, rather than suggesting they pursue it "after college."
When my daughter chose to enroll in the vocational program at her school, we had several discussions about her coursework and aspirations to ensure that her choices aligned with her future goals. We realized that if you are on a path to a career in trades, you don’t have to worry about A.P. classes, SATs, and other extra-curriculars for the sake of a college application. This freed her up to explore a whole lot of other topics and hobbies to support her career plans and well-being.
Learn about opportunities for education and apprenticeships that are dedicated to the trades. Maybe you want a career change, or you know a friend that is looking to leave their job, or again, your own son or daughter wants to try something other than traditional schooling.
When you pay a tradesperson, you are paying them for their experience, not their time. People that work in the trades have education and certifications that are specific to their expertise. They have expensive equipment, insurance, and many hours of time behind their prices. Pay them. Whether they are building your house or catching you lobsters, pay them.
Advocate for funding and resources to be devoted to vocational programs and technical schools in your area.
Bonus: Get yourself some Support Blue Collar gear..
