Did you know that students who focus on career and technical education in high school tend to earn higher pay eight years after graduation than students who don’t?
That’s according to the U.S. Department of Education.
What career and technical education options are available, and how can you get a jump-start on your future? Through youth apprenticeship programs, you can explore several in-demand jobs that provide hands-on training and real-world experience, setting you on the path to a successful career starting as early as high school.
Want to find the right career training program for you?
Discover how Guilford Apprenticeship Partners (GAP) gives you the opportunity to gain on-the-job training, real-world experience, and a paycheck while working in an exciting industry.
1. Advanced Manufacturing Worker
If the thought of working with machines, robotics, and 3D printers appeals to you, this could be a career path to consider. In this field, you’d help turn creative concepts into products, manage quality control, test machine operations, and more. Examples of job titles in this field might include robotics technician, metal and plastic model maker, and program operator.
- Career Outlook: Employment of skilled workers in advanced manufacturing will be largely driven by the need to replace individuals who are retiring.
- Average Pay: After completion of on-the-job training, professionals in this field often average upwards of $26 an hour, according to national employment sites, such as Indeed and ZipRecruiter.
- Career Pathway: Explore Advanced Manufacturing through GAP’s youth apprenticeship career pathway, where you can gain hands-on experience, training, and a head start in this high-demand field.
2. Computer Support Specialist
Jobs that offer training starting in high school are also available in the computer and information technology field. You can learn skills to help organizations manage their computer networks and keep them secure. You might also work to make systems more efficient, oversee a company’s digital files, or offer technical support.
- Career Outlook: More than 66,500 U.S. jobs are expected to open up each year in this field, with growth expected to be faster than average over the next decade, notes the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
- Average Pay: The BLS also reported that computer support specialists earned an average hourly wage of $29.61.
- Career Pathway: Learn more about Information Technology through GAP’s youth apprenticeship program, where you can train in practical skills in areas such as network management, help desk support, and software development.
3. HVAC Repair Specialist
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) repair is another field that has a frequent need for quality, skilled workers. On-the-job training for this position is common, often through a trade apprenticeship program, where students earn trainee-level pay while they learn under the guidance of experienced workers in the field.
- Career Outlook: According to the BLS, opportunities for HVAC mechanics and installers are projected to grow faster than average from 2022-2032 when compared to other occupations.
- Average Pay: Once training is complete, HVAC technicians across the U.S. average just over $27 an hour base with additional overtime pay common, according to Indeed.
- Career Pathway: Discover the HVAC Repair Specialist field through GAP’s youth apprenticeship program, where you can gain real-world experience troubleshooting, installing, and maintaining systems, giving you a solid foundation in this essential industry.
4. Mechanic
Do you have a passion for cars, motorcycles, and trucks? Are you fascinated by how parts come together and enjoy working with your hands? A career as an automotive technician could be for you. In this type of job training program, you’d learn how to perform routine maintenance, like oil changes, brake changes, tire rotations, and engine repairs. In this type of business, you could work on your own or for an automotive retail store, a mechanic shop, or a car dealership.
- Career Outlook: As long as people have vehicles, this field will continue to need qualified professionals for upkeep and repairs. The BLS notes job growth is projected to keep pace with the national average.
- Average Pay: According to job search site Indeed, the average mechanic’s salary is nearly $25 per hour.
- Career Pathway: Learn more about Automotive Technology through GAP’s youth apprenticeship offerings, where you can train in diagnostics, vehicle repair, and maintenance to succeed in this industry.