If you’re exploring how to change careers, you’re not alone. Many adults are choosing to give up their desk and go the hands-on route by entering the skilled trades.
With faster training options and a nationwide demand for skilled trades jobs, shifting into a new field is more achievable and quicker than many people realize. In many cases, you can prepare for a new career in under two years through the right trade school program.
Keep reading to learn more about how making a career switch can be possible with a trade school like Universal Technical Institute (UTI).1
Why More Adults Are Switching to the Skilled Trades
From growing industry demand to a faster training path, the trades provide a compelling alternative for anyone exploring how to change careers. Below are some of the top reasons career changers are making the switch.
Rising demand for automotive, diesel, welding, HVACR and similar roles
Industries across the country are experiencing a shortage of qualified technicians. Fields in the transportation, energy and skilled trades industries all require trained professionals to keep businesses and homes running. This ongoing demand creates opportunities for a range of skilled trades jobs.
Strong job outlook and competitive wages
Many trades offer competitive earning potential, especially as technicians gain experience or specialize. Those looking for how to change careers often find the trades appealing because they combine hands-on work with a steady income.
Comparison to traditional 4-year degree paths
Unlike a four-year bachelor’s degree, which takes longer, trade school programs can prepare students for the workforce in significantly less time. For adults balancing work, family or financial goals, the shorter timeline can be a major advantage.
Appeal for career changers seeking hands-on, stable work
Many people want a job where their skills make an immediate impact. Skilled trades careers are active, practical and rooted in real problem-solving. Workers in the trades are essential for keeping industries and businesses running!
Accelerated Training Paths That Can Prepare You in Under 2 Years
If you’re ready for a faster route into the workforce, some trade school programs can help you build job-ready skills in months, not years. UTI’s training paths are designed to give adult learners a way to prepare for skilled trades jobs quickly, in under two years or less.
Explore UTI program lengths
UTI offers a range of skilled trades programs, many of which can be completed in under a year. Even the more in-depth training paths are under two years, giving career changers a faster route to prepare for the field.
Learn through hands-on, industry-aligned training18
Our programs are designed to reflect real industry environments. Students train with the tools and technology used in today’s workplaces, preparing them for skilled trades jobs from day one.
Build skills through targeted courses
Instead of general education classes, UTI students undergo job-specific training. This helps adults looking into how to change careers focus on building the exact skills employers want.
How Skilled Trades Careers Compare to 4-Year Degree Professions
When you’re considering how to change careers, it’s helpful to compare your options. This includes the time and return on investment of different paths. Below is a closer look at how skilled trades training stacks up against the traditional four-year degree route.
Time to completion
UTI’s programs take less than two years, meaning you can spend less time in the classroom and more time in the workforce after graduating.
Earnings potential in skilled trades roles
Careers in the skilled trades can offer strong earning potential and advancement opportunities, making them appealing for adults ready for a new direction.
Job security and industry demand
The need for technicians continues to grow. From transportation to energy to manufacturing, industries rely on trained professionals to keep essential systems running.
Strong return on investment for career changers
A shorter training path plus healthy demand can mean a quicker return on investment, especially for those exploring how to change careers without starting over from scratch.
Career Services That Support Your Transition Into a New Trade
Making a career change is a big step, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. UTI offers career services designed to support students and graduates as they pursue skilled trades jobs, from résumé guidance to employer connections.
UTI’s career placement assistance
While employment isn’t guaranteed, UTI offers career services that can help students and alumni connect with employers.
Employer connections, résumé help and interviewing guidance
Career Advisors are here to assist students with résumé development, practice interviews and job search assistance, which are helpful resources for adults re-entering the job market.
Value for adults restarting their career path
For those shifting into the skilled trades, having structured support can make the transition smoother and more confidence-building.
Common FAQs Around Switching to a Skilled Trades Career
Do I need prior experience to enroll in a trade school program?
No, not at all! Many adult learners start with no experience and build their skills through hands-on training.18
Are trade school programs flexible for working adults?
UTI offers a range of schedules, with some campuses providing both day and evening options. This can help students balance training with other responsibilities.
How much does trade school cost compared to a 4-year degree?
Tuition varies, but trade school offers a shorter timeline and faster entry into the workforce. UTI also has a Financial Aid department that can help you navigate paying for trade school, and apply for scholarships, grants and loans you may qualify for.10
What are the fastest-growing skilled trades careers?
Automotive, energy, HVACR and welding careers continue to see growing demand nationwide as industries expand and replace retiring workers.
Can I switch careers later in life and still succeed in the skilled trades?
Yes! Many people begin skilled trades careers in their 30s, 40s and beyond. With dedication and the right training, age is not a barrier.
Train for a New Skilled Trades Career Path With UTI
If you want to learn more about transitioning to a career in the skilled trades, UTI can help you get there. Explore programs, compare training options and take the first step toward a hands-on career path. Or, if you’re ready to get started, enroll today!
Universal Technical Institute of Illinois, Inc. is approved by the Division of Private Business and Vocational Schools of the Illinois Board of Higher Education.