How do I learn a trade?

10/25/2017 at 10:17:33 AM

Hello Omar,

First thing you need to do is look at the variety of trades out there and pick which one you want to be a part of.

Once you have a trade selected do your research. It is important to be regimented and sit down everyday for several hours and read and watch as much information as you possibly can.

This will give you the knowledge to have real discussions with people working in the field and will increase your chance of getting hired.

Once you find a company looking to hire, be honest with them that you are new to the field but are passionate about learning and want to increase your skills.

If you really want to get ahead, invest in a trade school or reach out to a local mentor or tutor who can sit down with you a couple times a week and teach you some more technical skills.

Remember every trade has a different learning curve, it is important to find something that you are really interested in so that you will push through the moments when you don't fully comprehend the information you are trying to learn.

I hope this helps

Have a good day,

Kyle Wilson

10/25/2017 at 10:21:16 AM

Every employer would love to get their hands on an experienced employee, but that's easier said then done.

I always tell people that if you want a job in the trades all you have to do is show up to a construction site at 6:30am with a hard hat and workboots and start asking every trade that shows up if they'd like some help. If possible offer a week for free to prove you really want to learn.

I'd be very surprised if you didn't have a job by 10am. There is an EXTREME shortage of new people getting into the construction industry. Good luck :)

10/25/2017 at 11:14:48 AM

Hello Omar,

I believe at 43 you are still young. The most important aspect I look for in an employee is attitude and character. Experience always comes second.

I would research all the trades and pick one that appeals to you. Get the vocational training and with the right attitude I don't see an issue with getting work. The pay will reflect your experience. However, with the motivation to learn working with your journeyman it won't take long before you get the experience and the pay to go along with it.

Good luck

-Marco

10/25/2017 at 3:42:08 PM

Omar,

I agree with Andy and Marco. First decide what trade you want to pursue - then go to a job site ready to work. Or when you answer want ads - go the extra mile and instead of just sending an email. Pick up the phone and ask to speak to the person hiring. Explain that you are willing to work for Free for a week and see if they are interested. I'm sure it will be beneficial to you being on the site and finding out which trade really inspires you.

Then you can go to a trade school and start the process.

Hope all the information we've provided helps, and good luck in your new career

Lisa