Remote work and distance learning have quickly become accessible opportunities for many employees and students of all ages. We have begun to adapt to accomplish more regardless of our physical locations, offering flexibility and opportunities to many. Students are commonly starting college online, and may not even attend class in person at all before graduation. But is attending an online trade school viable?

Surprisingly, there are a number of excellent online trade schools for students looking to become electricians, plumbers, and HVAC technicians. Accredited online trade schools provide greater flexibility and more opportunities for students as they begin or continue their careers in the trades. If you are considering remote trade school, there are a few factors to help you determine if it is right for you.

If Budget Is a Concern

In general, trade schools are often cheaper than their traditional four-year university counterparts. Thanks to fewer textbooks, reduced need for room and board, and streamlined programs, students who attend technical schools in the trades benefit from paying a fraction of the cost of a four-year degree.

Attending an online trade school can prove to be even more affordable. For students who are concerned about their educational budget, remote trade schools can be beneficial. Costs are typically lower thanks to relief in general tuition, books, and of course the commute, or lack thereof. Many online trade schools enable students to attend and achieve their degrees at a lower cost with the same quality and results.

If You Are Looking For Flexibility in Your Schedule

Another benefit of a remote trade school is flexibility. Students have the option to attend class on their own time, allowing them to work a job, help their family, and graduate at a pace that is right for them. This option is ideal for many who want to get their technical education, but cannot afford the time it takes to do so.

Asynchronous classes in the trades often require students to be self-motivated and driven, which are two traits that — if you can perfect them — are ideal for a career in the trades. Tradespeople need to be able to manage their time on their own and work hard without being told what to do all the time. In fact, if students can prove that they are able to complete their in-class work on their own, then they have nearly proven that they will have a successful career in any trade they choose to take up.

If You Cannot Attend In-Person for Any Reason

Finally, attending an online trade school can prove beneficial to any student who, for any reason, cannot attend class in person. Whether it is due to illness, family events, physical distance or other concerns, remote trade schools provide more opportunities for all students.

Thanks to improving remote capabilities, we can work to connect to students in rural areas or those who have the desire to become a tradesperson but are facing barriers. As the skilled trades project significant job growth in the next decade, it is critical that we reach everyone who has the desire to begin a career in the industry. Providing flexibility, remote learning opportunities, and ways to attend an online trade school, students can find a career they will thrive in without having to worry about financial or time constraints.

Find a Trade School That Is Right for You

In a post-pandemic world where technology has proven to benefit students in new ways, we can start to provide new opportunities for students who are looking to begin a career in the trades. Attending an online trade school may seem non-traditional, and it certainly is a new way to think about secondary education. After all, the trades are all about hands-on learning.

After attending remote trade school, students will still need to enter into an apprenticeship and receive in-person training to apply their technical skills. However, getting started on a career through online courses is a perfect introduction to the trades and an effective way to receive the necessary education.

If you are considering trade schools of any kind, whether at a local technical school near you or through online courses, Explore The Trades can help you along the way. We provide resources for students, parents, and anyone else interested in a career in the trades.

Browse our resources, find competitive jobs, and begin a career you will love.

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