There are tremendous opportunities in the skilled trades. Now, more than ever, professions like heating and air conditioning, electrical, plumbing and welding need people to help build and maintain the places where we live, work and play.

There are at least three reasons to consider a career in the skilled trades:

1. Great money and unlimited opportunity.
   Entry-level jobs in construction, with short-term training in a program like ConstructionReady.org, can lead to jobs earning $13-$15 per hour. From there, you can enroll in an apprenticeship program or a technical college. That, combined with on-the-job training and experience can lead to journeyman opportunities earning up to $70,000 per year. And with more time, experience and training, you can move into management opportunities, like foremen and superintendents, who earn $100,000+ per year.
2. Opportunities to learn the trades at no cost to you.
   The amazing thing about most training in the skilled trades is that it is usually covered by your employer. So, while your peers are going tens of thousands of dollars into debt earning that four-year degree, you can actually be earning money and learning your trade, all without racking up any student loan debt.
3. The reward of building something that lasts your entire life.
   Hands down, my favorite thing about the skilled trades is the feeling of satisfaction you get when you drive by a project you helped build. That is a feeling that lasts a lifetime and can be shared with your loved ones.

For more information, visit cefga.org or constructionready.org

Editor's note: Mark your calendars for 2021 Careers in Energy Week, October 18-22. Georgia Power will be hosting several interactive events featuring exciting energy careers. Students, educators and parents will learn more about high-demand skilled trade jobs at Georgia Power!