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With high school graduation right around the corner, many grade twelve students have started making plans for September. But, there are some graduates out there that may be thinking that taking a year off to work while they decide on a career is their best option. After all, who wants to commit to years of education only to find out the career wait for you at the end isn't what you thought it would be?

As the demand for skilled workers rises, so has enrollment in many college trades courses — as has the tuition. But if you find the right trade school, you can save thousands of dollars and years of time. You won't have to enroll in a 2-4 year course that costs $5000+ a year (coming in at $10,000 to $20,000 total). In fact, you can complete a course at a fraction of the cost and be ready to work in just 17 weeks.

The key is to choose the right school to get certified.

Look for Accreditation

The Technical Standards and Safety Authority (TSSA) administers certification to skilled trades like gas technician licensing and ensure that all certification programs comply with industry standards. 

Safety in the workplace is of utmost importance, that's why registering with a skilled trades school that is a TSSA training provider matters. By attending a school that is TSSA approved, you can rest assured that you are not only being taught in a safe facility but you are also learning the safest practices for when you are on the job.

Is it worth the cost?

As a general rule, your school loans shouldn't exceed one year's salary after you complete your education. Do a bit of research online, find some job postings and find out exactly what you can expect when you complete your gas technician license. 

Obviously, the shorter the training process, the less you should be spending. So even if it feels like a large sum to pay upfront, if you are taking a course that is complete within a few months, rather than a few years, think of the savings in the long run.

And with a gas fitter job in Ontario, you can rest assured, you will find a well-paying job after completing your license.

It's all about timing

If you are a high school student who is looking to take some time off to work, it might be hard to convince yourself that you really should be going back to school right away instead. However, if the timing is right, you can be done school and ready to work in less than four months — and making better money than you would with just your high school diploma.

There is no need to enroll in a college course that will require you to take electives that are not related to your field of study. If you want to work as a gas technician, why do you need to take Math for Non-Math majors? By finding a course that only requires you to learn what is essential for your certification, you can be in and out in what feels like no time. While your friends have years of school, you'll be building a career.