Bill and Suzanne
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Trade Schools in North Carolina: What You Need to Know

by Posted on June 2, 2022

Trade schools in North Carolina offer students a chance to get hands-on training in specific careers. There are many different types of trade schools, and each one offers a unique set of programs and courses. If you’re interested in enrolling in a trade school, there are some things you need to know. In this blog post, we will discuss the different types of trade schools, and the careers they prepare you for. We will also tell you about the Bill and Suzanne Lowe Family Foundation Scholarship Program, which offers scholarships to students who want to attend a trade school or community college.

Available types of trade schools for students in NC:

There are many different types of trade schools in North Carolina, each with its own programs and benefits. Students should research the different types of trade schools before making a decision about which one is right for them. Here are some of the most common types of trade schools in North Carolina:

Vocational Schools:

Vocational schools offer training in a specific career, such as carpentry, plumbing, or cosmetology. This type of schooling is typically shorter than traditional college programs, and students receive hands-on training in their chosen field. Many vocational schools also offer internships or externships, which can give students the opportunity to gain real-world experience. Vocational education can be a great option for someone who knows what career they want to pursue and is looking for a more affordable and efficient way to receive the training they need. With the rising cost of college tuition, more and more students are turning to vocational schools as a way to save money and get ahead in their chosen fields.

Community Colleges:

Community colleges offer a variety of programs, including trade and technical programs. Trade and technical programs provide students with the skills needed to enter the workforce in a specific field. These programs often last two years or less, and they can lead to certification or an Associate’s degree. Technical programs also prepare students for transfer to a four-year college. Community colleges offer a variety of other programs as well, including adult education, continuing education, and English as a Second Language (ESL) classes. In addition, community colleges often have partnerships with local businesses and organizations that offer internships and job shadowing opportunities for students. As a result, community colleges provide an affordable and accessible option for students who are looking to enter the workforce or continue their education.

Apprenticeship Programs:

Apprenticeship programs are another type of trade school that offers students the opportunity to learn a skilled trade while working and earning a paycheck. Apprenticeships typically last two to four years, and during that time, apprentices receive on-the-job training from experienced workers in their chosen field. Apprentices also typically complete coursework related to their trade, and they may be required to take an exam to earn a journeyman’s license. Apprenticeship programs are a great way for students to learn a trade while getting paid, and they often lead to good jobs with high salaries.

Private Career Schools

Private career schools are for-profit institutions that offer training in a specific field. These schools typically have shorter programs than traditional colleges, and they often offer night and weekend classes to accommodate students’ schedules. Private career schools are not accredited by the same organizations as traditional colleges, so it’s important to do your research before enrolling in one of these schools. Make sure to look into the school’s accreditation, job placement rate, and average student loan debt to get a sense of whether the school is a good fit for you.

Types of trade school careers

Students who attend trade schools can prepare for a wide variety of careers, including automotive technicians, electricians, HVAC technicians, plumbers, and welders. In addition to providing the necessary skills and knowledge for these positions, trade schools can also help students to develop important soft skills, such as communication and problem-solving. As a result, trade schools can be an excellent option for those who are looking to begin a career in a skilled trade.

Other careers often obtained through a trade school are:

  • Commercial truck driver
  • Construction worker
  • Dental hygienist
  • Elevator installer/repairman
  • Firefighter
  • Machinist
  • Medical assistant
  • Nurse
  • Welder
  • And the list is growing…

The Bill and Suzanne Lowe Family Foundation Scholarship Program:

The Bill and Suzanne Lowe Family Foundation offers scholarships to students who want to attend a trade school, vocational school, or community college. The scholarship is for Guilford or Davidson County residents who are enrolled in or have been accepted to a vocational, technical, or community college.

Enrolling in a trade school is a great way to get hands-on training in a specific career. If you’re interested in attending trade school, be sure to research the different types of schools and programs available. And if you need help paying for tuition, don’t forget to check out the Bill and Suzanne Lowe Family Foundation Scholarship Program.