An apprenticeship is occupational training that combines on-the-job experience with classroom instruction. As an apprentice you can look forward to good pay, benefits, and the start of a long-term career. An apprenticeship is not a way to get rich quick—you need to commit to three to four years of on-the-job training and hundreds of hours of classroom time. You will be well-paid, but it takes hard work and patience to complete your apprenticeship and earn your journey card.

A trade school, also known as a technical or vocational school, is an educational institution that exists to teach skills related to a specific job. Trade schools typically take a lot less time to complete, have smaller class sizes, and the majority of the training is hands-on, which is an ideal environment for many types of learners. Vocational degrees can lead to well-paying jobs like electrician, mechanic, machinist, pharmacy technician, nuclear technician, and dental hygienist, with room for growth and managerial potential in each field.

For More Information:

• Oregon Apprenticeship
• http://www.reviews.com/vocational-careers/ for a review of “The Best Vocational Careers.”
• Check out “26 Highest-Paying Jobs That You Can Train for in 2 Years or Less.”
• http://profoundlydisconnected.com/trade-resource-center/ for lots of information on schools, organizations, training programs, and financial aid.

Not sure you want to spend four years in college? Check out the short term training programs at Southwestern! Spend just six months to a year in school, and get skilled up in Allied Health, Welding, Computer Information Systems, or other areas of your choosing.

One example of the short term trainings is the Career Pathways Program. A Career Pathways Certificate opens the door to a solid start in obtaining your employment and educational goals. You decide how far you want to go, at a pace that is comfortable for you. The first Certificate gives you a competitive edge when applying for an entry level position in a given industry or career pathway. As you take each step in your career pathway, you'll find that each new Career Pathways Certificate will give you an advantage as you apply for better positions. These certificates eventually lead to an Associate of Applied Science—or even beyond! It's up to you how far you want to go.

Call to make an appointment to speak with an advisor at 541-888-7405, or visit the website  to learn more.