Embarking on a trade journey is an exhilarating experience that doesn’t have to reach its peak once you’ve obtained your qualification. If you find yourself contemplating what lies ahead in your 5, 10, or 20-year plan after completing your trade qualification, this article is for you.
Have you considered the multitude of options available to you once you’ve achieved your trade qualification? The possibilities are vast, and the best part is that you can tailor your path to align with your lifestyle, aspirations, and personal preferences.
Think of your trade qualification as the solid foundation of a house, upon which you can construct a myriad of possibilities. Just like the countless building materials, floor plans, heights, features, locations, and colour schemes that can make each house unique, a career in the trades offers endless opportunities for growth and diversification.
Let’s explore some exciting avenues to take your trade qualification to the next level:
1. Continue with your current Apprenticeship employer: if you find fulfilment in your current workplace and there are opportunities for growth, staying on can provide long-term security and nurture the relationships you’ve built.
2. Transition to a new employer or explore different sectors: by venturing into a new work environment or using your trade skills in a different sector, you can broaden your horizons and continue honing your craft.
3. Start your own business: if you feel ready to embark on an entrepreneurial journey, why not take the leap? Seek guidance on business strategies and develop a solid plan to ensure your success as a business owner.
4. Pursue a dual trade: consider acquiring a secondary trade that complements your existing qualifications. For instance, an electrician can expand their skill set by adding air-conditioning and refrigeration expertise, while a plumber can benefit from acquiring tiling skills to enhance their service offerings.
5. Travel while working: armed with a nationally recognised trade qualification, you have the freedom to hit the road and explore the beauty of our country while funding your adventures through your trade expertise.
6. Engage in further training or specialisation: elevate your career by obtaining additional qualifications such as a builder’s licence Diploma, bachelor’s degree, or specialising in a specific area. For example, veterinary nurses can pursue specialised qualifications in animal oncology care, while landscape gardeners can delve into plant diseases or native land management.
7. Contribute to the industry: if your ultimate goal is to share your knowledge with aspiring tradespeople, gain extensive experience across various aspects of your trade and work towards obtaining a Certificate IV in Training and Assessment. Group Training Organisations (GTOs) and Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) are always in need of skilled tradespeople who can train and foster the growth of the industry.
These are just a few of the pathways that a trade qualification can lead you down. The possibilities are endless, so start building your empire today and shaping a fulfilling and prosperous future in the trades.