How a skilled trades education can help future-proof your career

(BPT) - For high school students and recent grads, concerns about AI impacting future career paths are looming. Studies show AI is on track to displace a wide range of jobs, primarily in corporate jobs and professional services. The careers most likely to be affected by the growth of AI include positions involving writing, computer programming and web design, to name just a few.

This reality, combined with the attractive nature of a career in providing hands-on technical service and interacting with people in a personal way daily, is leading many students to consider fields that are least likely to be impacted by the AI boom: the skilled trades.

"Four-year degrees from a college or university were historically seen as the only path toward professional growth and stability," said Ron Gardner, vice president of Operations at San Joaquin Valley College. "However, programs in the skilled trades and industrial sectors offer many opportunities that are increasingly attractive to today's students, especially those who are wary of AI's increasing influence."

Skilled trades accelerate as chosen career path

"More students are seeking careers in which they can develop practical, real-world skills that are in demand," said Gardner. "They're also attracted to jobs where they can solve problems and make a tangible difference in people's lives."

Through a trade program at a school like San Joaquin Valley College (SJVC), which has 15 locations throughout California and Arizona, students can access certificate and degree programs and hands-on training to help prepare them for a wide variety of careers. SJVC's trades and industrial programs include:

Construction Management: Prepares students to manage residential and commercial construction projects. The program offers an Associate of Science degree in as few as 14 months.

Electrical Technology: Trains students to install, maintain and repair electrical systems with practical experience. Graduates are eligible to sit for the California General Electrician's Certification Exam[1].

Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration (HVAC-R): Equips students to become HVAC-R technicians earning a certificate in as little as 10 months.

Aviation Maintenance Technology: Prepares students to perform maintenance on aircraft airframes and engines.

Maintenance Technician: Offers hands-on training in industrial systems and equipment, preparing students for entry-level maintenance roles, with a certificate achievable in as few as 7 months.

"SJVC offers trade and industrial programs to help students develop real-world experience through career-focused instruction," said Gardner. "Our industry-relevant curriculum helps students develop knowledge and experience aligned with real-world applications."

Creating opportunities for women

Women in the trades are already reshaping the future of technical and industrial careers. In the construction industry alone, women reached a record 11.2% to 11.5% of the construction industry workforce in 2024.

Not only are talent shortages opening up more opportunities in the trades for women, but industry groups and public workforce initiatives are expanding resources and structured support to help women pursue and continue careers in the trades.

"The trades offer a path where the work speaks for itself," said Gardner. "At SJVC you'll find a supportive environment where you can learn the ropes from experienced instructors who have actually been there."

Interest in skilled trades careers among women continues to grow as industries seek skilled professionals across a variety of technical fields. Learn more about career opportunities and the increasing role of women in the trades.

How to know if trade school is right for you

Choosing a training path that's best for you starts with understanding how you like to learn and what you want from your education.

"SJVC's trade training programs are designed for individuals who want a more direct, career-focused education, with an emphasis on practical skill development," added Gardner.

The trades may be a good fit if you:

• Prefer hands-on learning over lecture-based instruction
• Enjoy working with tools, equipment or technology
• Want a career-focused education path that emphasizes real-world applications
• Are interested in building practical skills that can be applied in specific industries
• Value structured training that focuses on job-related tasks and responsibilities

Programs offered at SJVC support a range of career interests, from mechanical and technical fields to construction management and maintenance-related roles. If you're motivated to learn by doing and want to develop industry-relevant skills, this type of training may align with your goals.

By enrolling in an SJVC program, students will access:

• Career-focused training through programs structured to emphasize the skills used in each field, helping students build a strong foundation they can apply in real work settings.
• Hands-on learning to help students gain experience using the tools, equipment and techniques relevant to their chosen trade, helping to reinforce classroom learning.
• Flexible options including programs offered online or on campus (depending on the program). This allows students to choose what fits their schedule and responsibilities, similar to what many students look for in online trade school programs.
• Support throughout the program from enrollment through completion, with access to guidance and resources designed to help them stay on track.
• Career services support such as assistance with resume development, interview preparation and job search strategies.

Learn more about How a Skilled Trades Education Can Help Prepare You for the Future.

Visit consumerinfo.sjvc.edu for important information on program outcomes.