Society focuses on one message for high schoolers – graduate and go to college. Despite the large debt associated, more students are electing to attend university and earn a degree than before. With all this focus on those going the “traditional” route, others entering the workforce immediately are left without attention.
Shining a Light
One county in Virginia sought to change this distinction between post-secondary education and vocation. Similar to the events where athletes sign letters of intent and proudly announce where they’re going to school, the public schools in Henrico County wanted to honor its seniors who planned to start their careers immediately. The “Career and Technical Letter-of-Intent Signing Day” celebrated students’ career and technical education as they signed their letters of intent announcing where they will work as machinists or apprentices, both locally and around the country.
Many praised this event for good reason. Skilled laborers are important to the American workforce, but the presumed progression of high school to college can leave those choosing this path feeling like their decision is the wrong one. Mike Rowe of “Dirty Jobs” commented on the event and summarized it best: “This is the way forward. No attempt to close the skills gap will ever succeed, until or unless we celebrate those who are willing to learn a skill that’s in demand.”
Finding Work After High School
Going to college works for some students, but it isn’t for everyone. If you don’t feel more years in the classroom is what will work for you, consider learning a trade. Most schools offer some sort of training to get you started, but the opportunities to begin your career after graduation are endless. Despite what people will say, your only options aren’t fast food or retail.
By learning a skill or trade, you’re opening yourself up to a life of hands-on work that can take you anywhere you want to go. Stay where you grew up or move to a different state. With the skills you pick up in tech school, you can work anywhere.
Start your Career with Workbox Staffing.
For more than 20 years, we’ve helped place light industrial and factory workers around the U.S. We keep growing and rivaling our larger competitors. If you’re looking to get your start in the industry, we have the right jobs for you. Find a job with Workbox Staffing today!
