Why Trade Schools Matter More Than Ever
Growing up in Massachusetts, I always heard about the importance of getting a college degree. That was the “normal” path to success. But for people like me, who enjoy working with their hands and solving real-world problems, the traditional college route didn’t make much sense. I needed something more practical—something I could use right away. That’s what led me to Martin Electrical & Technical School in Norwood. And looking back, I can say with full confidence that choosing a trade school was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.
Today, I believe trade schools are key to revitalizing the American workforce. We’re at a point where there’s a growing need for skilled trades, and yet, we’ve spent decades pushing the idea that a four-year degree is the only path to success. It’s time to change that mindset—and trade schools are a big part of the solution.
Learning Skills That Actually Matter
One of the best things about trade schools is that they teach you what you actually need to know to do the job. There’s no fluff. When I started at Martin Electrical, we didn’t spend time on subjects that had nothing to do with electrical work. Every class was hands-on, practical, and geared toward real situations I’d face on job sites.
We learned everything from the National Electrical Code to how to read blueprints, troubleshoot systems, and wire entire buildings. And it wasn’t just theory—we were doing it with our own hands, under the guidance of instructors who had decades of experience in the field. That kind of training builds confidence. It prepares you for real work in the real world.
Shorter Programs, Faster Careers
Another reason trade schools are so important is that they get people into the workforce faster. While a traditional college degree might take four years (and sometimes even longer), many trade programs can be completed in two years or less. That means less student debt and a quicker path to a good-paying job.
When I finished my training, I didn’t have to wait for an internship or climb a corporate ladder. I was ready to work, licensed, and earning a living. And I wasn’t alone. I saw classmates land jobs right out of school—some even before graduation. In today’s economy, that kind of fast-track opportunity can be life-changing, especially for people who can’t afford to wait years to start earning money.
Trade Schools Fill a Critical Gap
Right now, there’s a major shortage of skilled workers in America. Electricians, plumbers, HVAC techs, welders—you name it, we need more of them. Many older tradespeople are retiring, and there aren’t enough young people coming up to take their place. This is where trade schools come in. They’re not just teaching skills—they’re helping fill a huge gap in our economy.
If we want our country’s infrastructure to stay strong, if we want to keep building homes, powering businesses, and maintaining essential systems, we need people who know how to do the work. Trade schools are producing those people, one class at a time.
More Than Just Technical Training
What people don’t always realize is that trade schools also teach discipline, responsibility, and professionalism. At Martin Electrical, we were expected to show up on time, follow safety protocols, work as a team, and take pride in our work. These are life skills—things every employer looks for, no matter the industry.
On top of that, you build relationships with classmates, instructors, and mentors who care about your success. It’s a supportive environment that’s all about helping you grow. I still keep in touch with some of the people I met in trade school, and we help each other out to this day—sharing job leads, advice, and encouragement.
A Path to Independence and Pride
For many people, including myself, the trades offer more than just a job—they offer a sense of independence. As a licensed electrician, I have control over my career. I can choose what types of jobs to take, whether I want to specialize, and even whether I want to start my own business someday.
There’s also a deep sense of pride that comes with seeing the results of your work. I can walk into a building and say, “I wired this place.” That kind of tangible impact is something you don’t always get in other careers. It reminds me that the work I do matters, and that I’m contributing to something bigger than myself.
Changing the Conversation
If we’re going to revitalize the American workforce, we need to change how we talk about education and success. College is a great option for some, but it shouldn’t be the only option we celebrate. Trade schools are just as valuable, and in many cases, they lead to careers that are more stable, better paying, and more in demand than many college degrees.
Parents, teachers, and guidance counselors need to start encouraging young people to consider the trades—not as a fallback plan, but as a smart, honorable, and rewarding career path. We also need more investment in vocational education at the high school level, so students can get a head start before they even graduate.
Final Thoughts
As someone who’s gone through the process—from student to licensed professional—I can tell you firsthand that trade schools are doing incredible work. They’re preparing the next generation of workers to keep our country running. They’re giving people practical skills, real opportunities, and a sense of purpose.
The trades built America, and they’ll continue to power its future. If we want a stronger, more resilient workforce, then we need to support and uplift the institutions that make it possible. Trade schools aren’t just training electricians, carpenters, or mechanics—they’re building the backbone of our economy.
And I’m proud to be part of it.