Whether you’re fresh out of high school or are looking for a career change, pre-vocational schools and programs offer a variety of educational options that can prepare you for on-the-job success.
Unlike university or college degree programs which can take years to complete, most pre-vocational training programs last anywhere from a few weeks to several months. This makes it easy for aspiring professionals to fast track their career plans and apply newfound skills as soon as possible.
Check out these three ways pre-vocational training programs will kick-start your next career move and put you in the fast lane.
You will save big
One of the biggest benefits to pre-vocational training is the practical skills you gain in the classroom. Unlike traditional academic programs, pre-vocational classes are geared toward real world application and hands on training.
Whether you’re interested in construction, carpentry, welding or even 3-D digital fabrication, pre-vocational programs give you on-the-job skills that transfer directly to the job you want.
What is the best part? Pre-vocational programs tend to be significantly cheaper than a bachelor’s degree program.
Not only do you have the potential to start earning money in the job market sooner, if you attend a full two-year pre-vocational school, you can expect to pay around $33,000. Compare that to an average of $127,000 for a four-year bachelor’s degree, and the savings add up.
If two years and $33,000 sounds like a steep investment, you still have options. For example, CareerSource of Tampa Bay and CareerSource of Pinellas, regional workforce boards for Hillsborough and Pinellas counties, offer career services and subsidized pre-vocational training programs for students interested in technical fields. Most of its courses are only 3-7 weeks and offer professional certificates, networking opportunities and job referrals.
With the practical knowledge and skill set gained from pre-vocational training, students often go straight onto full time jobs in their desired fields, prepared to do the work and start earning from day one.
You can access career guidance resources
Not only will you save big with pre-vocational training, many programs include services such as career guidance and resource centers. Depending on the school or program, you can expect career planning advisement, interview training and tips, job mentorship and networking or referral opportunities during and after completion of your program.
With these resources, you won’t just have the know how to do a job, you’ll have the tools to find and land the right job when opportunity comes your way.
It’s a resume-builder
Finally, pre-vocational training is a great way to strengthen your resume and round out your experience. Many programs offer professional certification by the end of the course, which helps you stand out among other candidates.
Plus, pre-vocational training shows potential employers you have real, transferable skills and experience. Hiring a new employee is an investment of time and money, so if employers know you have what it takes to succeed in the position, you will be an attractive candidate.
Taking the next step to move your career forward can be daunting, but options like pre-vocational training can get you on the right track quickly without breaking the bank or putting your life on hold.
Whether you’re pursuing a career in construction or are ready to try your hand at 3-D fabrication, there are dozens of options at your fingertips.
Explore careersourcetampabay.com and careersourcepinellas.com to see what program is right for you.
