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If you've already think a skilled trades job might be for you, it's important to know where to begin. There is no point in pursuing a career that you have thought about without actually understand what the job or the training entails. You wouldn't want to invest the time and money into training only to find out this isn't the career choice you thought it would be. And so, we are launching a short series — a step-by-step guide, if you will — about how to kick start a career in the trades.
Whether you are a soon-to-be high school graduate trying to figure out what to do with your life or someone who just wants to pursue something new, let this be your guide to starting your new career in the skilled trades.
Step 3: Find your niche
Once you have your license, you'll be amazed at how many career opportunities you suddenly have. In fact, when it comes to skilled trades jobs in Canada, there are so many, you might be a little overwhelmed. And if you have a certification in one area, like your gas technician license for example, you can choose to explore different trades from there.
A gas technician license gives your a wide breadth of knowledge and skills that extend beyond just working in the HVAC industry. There are many possibilities for specialties within that specific trade, but you can also apply your knowledge to other areas, such as plumbing, sheet metal or electrical — you'll just need to continue your education and get more certifications.
Find the best way to complete your certifications
We have talked about getting the right education already, and we know that course length is often a key factor in the decision making process so that you can get to work sooner. What we didn't mention was that if you are considering pursuing a niche that might involve more schooling or an apprenticeship, getting your gas technician license is the perfect stepping stone to get you there.
If you can get your license in just 17 weeks, that means you can move onto the next step sooner. And with all the skilled trades jobs in Ontario right now, you'll likely find it easy to find someone willing to take you on for apprenticeship hours to perfect your trade. And the best part of an apprenticeship? While you are working towards completing your hours, you're still getting paid!
Do your research
With so many skilled trades out there, make sure you know what you need to do to get the job of your dreams. We touched on this in the last blog in this series on education, doing your research is key. A quick Google search for something like "How to become a Gas Fitter" will give you everything you need to know. Then make some calls, visit some schools and find the best fit for you.
Niches in the trades are seemingly endless — all you have to do is find the one for you and you'll be on the road to a long, rewarding career!
