In this day and age, becoming a tradie has never been more significant. From climate change adaptation to the growing needs of an evolving society, the importance of skilled tradespeople in the construction and building sectors is becoming more and more apparent.

Importance of being a tradie

A vital component of any flourishing economy, tradespeople are on the front lines, maintaining our basic infrastructure and making notable contributions to growth and development every single day. They equip our built environment with the essentials it needs to function and shape the very future of our cities and towns.

Scope of being a tradie

With such a significant role to play, the scope of being a tradesperson comes with the promise of rewarding opportunities as well as invaluable personal growth.

There’s no denying that the hands-on nature of work in trades caters to those who prefer ‘learning by doing’. When you opt to Try a Trade, you open doors to diverse fields, from the construction of tall skyscrapers to residential renovations, the world becomes your workplace.

Growing industry demand

But what about job security, you ask? As infrastructure development, technological advancements, and economic growth continue at a steady pace, the industry is eagerly seeking skilled professionals who can meet the challenge.

Now you may wonder, how long does it take to be qualified? What are the study requirements? And how can you be sure that your qualifications will be recognised?

Steps to becoming a tradie

Determining the trade specialty

This is a personal decision that should align with your interests, aptitudes, and career goals. Whether your passion lies in carpentry, electrician work, plumbing, or other trades, it’s crucial to choose a specialty that will keep you engaged and motivated in the long run.

Completing relevant courses

A hallmark of your journey to becoming a tradie is engaging in educational courses tailored to your chosen trade. Quality education in trades isn’t about cramming textbooks; it’s about gaining practical skills that you’ll apply every day in your work.

From safety protocols to material knowledge and technical skills, courses like BSB40920 Certificate IV in Project Management Practice and CPC31320 Certificate III in Wall and Floor Tiling are constructed to equip you with a strong foundation for your career as a tradie.

Understanding different training paths

Remember, there is no single ‘correct’ route to becoming a tradie.

Some may opt for an apprenticeship immediately after secondary education, gaining on-the-job training while earning a wage. Others may select a pre-apprenticeship course, which provides basic trade skills and boosts their competitiveness for apprenticeships. Meanwhile, vocational courses can offer more in-depth understanding and skills in a particular trade.

Certification and beyond

Process of certification

At its core, the certification process involves an in-depth exploration of your chosen discipline. It begins with the application process, followed by rigorous training or coursework. Preparing for examinations is the next rung up the ladder.

Ultimately, you’ll demonstrate your competence through these tests and fulfil all requirements set by the certifying body. The path, while challenging, is designed to shape you into a skilled professional in your field.

Estimated timelines for certification

Time frames inevitably vary based on the chosen field, prior experience, ability, and the pace at which you progress. As we often highlight, a nuanced balance between speed and comprehensiveness is key. Setting realistic goals aids in maintaining this balance, and while there’s no universal timeline, the entire process might span several months to years.

Maintaining and upgrading qualifications

Obtaining certification is simply a step in your professional development. To stay current and competitive in the evolving industry, regular updating and upgrading of your qualifications is a must. This can be achieved through continuing education programmes, seminars, workshops, and learning from peers within professional networks.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I switch between different trades during my career?

Switching trades during your career is not only possible but can also enrich your professional portfolio and enhance your adaptability in an evolving industry. Understanding various sectors within the building and construction fields could increase your job versatility, broaden your skill set, and open an array of employment opportunities.

Keep in mind, though, that each change may necessitate learning new skills and adhering to different industry regulations.

What if I am unable to complete the courses on campus?

Everyone has unique commitments that may sometimes hinder their ability to attend on-campus classes. Search for an institution that offers a mix of blended learning options, combining on-campus and online learning. Flexible learning scenarios allow you to balance your studies, work, and personal life without compromising the integrity of your education.

How do you cope with changes in industry standards and regulations?

Embracing changes in industry standards and regulations can be challenging yet essential for your career progression. Continuous professional development is a gateway to keeping pace with these changes. Join professional associations, enrol in update and refresher courses, subscribe to trade journals, and network with industry peers to remain up-to-date.

The importance of ongoing knowledge uptake

The dynamic nature of the building and construction sectors requires continued knowledge enhancement. Stay ahead of the curve and keep honing your skills. Attend workshops, seek mentorship, and read industry publications; in short, use every opportunity as a chance for growth.

Being a high-earning tradie requires more than technical prowess. It is a continuous progression toward improvement and adaptation to ever-evolving industry trends. The status quo is the enemy of growth, so nurture the hunger for learning and watch as you carve out your prominent position in this rewarding trade.

Everthought is a premier education provider, fostering career growth through robust training programmes, adept instructors, and modern facilities. Our dedication to excellence in learning ensures you gain comprehensive knowledge and practical, industry-relevant skills to bolster your career graph.