The Ins and Outs of Vocational Training

By 2020, the Center on Education and the Workforce, Georgetown University, estimates that 65 percent of all occupations will require some form of postsecondary training and education. Rather than that training and education coming from a four-year degree, many students are opting for vocational training, which qualifies professionals to work in a variety of specific trades.

A vocational career isn't for one "type" of individual. It can be for any person of any age. A vocational student could be someone mid-career looking to change up his or her career, a student right out of high school or an individual nearing retirement and looking for a post-retirement career.

Vocational training can be done in any state at a vocational, technical or trade school, community colleges and four-year universities. Vocational careers offer a lot of variety and many options including, but not limited to:

• Dental hygienists
• Occupational therapy assistants
• Medical assistants
• Home health aides
• Nursing assistants

Choosing vocational training is also a quicker way into the workforce. A typical vocational program is two years long, allowing students to enter the workforce two whole years earlier than someone working toward a bachelor's degree. When choosing vocational training there are a few items to keep in mind such as:

• Admission and completion rates: Find out the level of the school's success and job placement rate
• Accreditation: Ensure your vocational school has proper accreditations
• Tuition/fees: Know the cost and any additional costs that could potentially come up during your vocational training

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, they found that wages increase and unemployment decreases as the level of degree increases. Having a vocational training background can help be the stepping stone for your career or future career. E-Hired is a great resource to use after completion of your vocational training. E-Hired will allow you to job search by industry and location and find your perfect career fit.