Revitalizing Trade Skill Career Paths

What are “Trade Careers”? Trade Careers are usually based on manual or practical activities, traditionally non-academic, and related to a specific trade, occupation, or vocation. AGING TRADE SKILLS PROJECT

Where are the Young Auto/ Diesel Mechanics, Carpenters, Plumbers, Electricians, HVAC Techs, Brick Masons and other Construction Trades’ Journeymen? High School Students’ interest in “trade” careers has declined. Why? AGING TRADE SKILLS PROJECT

High School Students may not be counselled concerning “Trade Skill” career paths. Trade Training Courses in limited locations. Some programs discontinued altogether. Education System only recommends these careers for “Exceptional Students”. Parents may see “Trade Skills” as demeaning. AGING TRADE SKILLS PROJECT

Possible Solution: Revitalize Trade Skills Apprenticeships: -Starts a career much faster than with any other method of training. (NC State Board of Ed.) -High School apprenticeship is industry-driven education. (N.C. Dept. of Labor) -Career training based on recognized industry standards. -Preplanned, work- based. Usually extends two to four years. AGING TRADE SKILLS PROJECT

Many people compare this N.C. Department of Labor Certificate to a four-year college degree Apprentice, when skilled and knowledgeable, will receive Certifications as a “Journeyman”. Apprenticeship : A proven pathway into primary job markets. AGING TRADE SKILLS PROJECT

How to Revitalize Apprenticeships -Establishing business relationships with potential employers -Targets: Farm Operations, Private Contractors, Regional Corporations, Professional Services Companies, Local Governments, Schools AGING TRADE SKILLS PROJECT

How to Revitalize Apprenticeships -Counsel Students & Parents about alternative Trade Career paths. -Establish On the Job Training Sites at Farm, Business, School and Government Locations. -Match Students Skills with Specific Job/ Mentoring Sites. -Pay the Student/ Apprentices for hands-on training. -Establish Pay Treatment for Skills Improvement. -Arrange for NC Dept. of Labor Certifications AGING TRADE SKILLS PROJECT.

How to Fund the Aging Trade Skills Project? Golden LEAF Opportunities for Work GLOW, a short-term, non-degree workforce development grant initiative that supports vocational and/or technical training programs targeting identified employment opportunities. Use of Funds: -These funds will pay contractor fee to the Apprentice/ Student. - As skills improve, Mentor/ Employer Subsidizes fees to Apprentices. -Eventual Journeyman Status / Fulltime Employment with Mentor/ Employer. - Or, “Journeyman” establishes self-employed Career. AGING TRADE SKILLS PROJECT