28 Aug 2017

There are plenty of reasons that the tradie life is the good life. The most obvious one is that you get paid while you learn (unlike uni, where you pay to learn). Then there’s the fact that there’s a national skills shortage across a whole range of trades (so there’s plenty of work available). Throw in the fact that trades are all about honing practical skills that can be used in your everyday life and you’ve got an awesome career.

Thinking you might want to become a tradie down the track? Here are some super simple ways to get started down the tradie path while you’re still in school.

1. Get your license

It might sound obvious but most trades require you to have your driver’s license, and, ideally, a car. This is especially important if you’re looking into the construction industry because eventually you’ll be expected to drive between different jobs with your tools and materials. So, as soon as you turn 16, start hustling your parents, family and/or friends to teach you how to get confident behind the wheel. It’s also a good idea to start saving your money so you can buy your own car to cruise around in.

2. Get a school-based apprenticeship

Did you know that you can start an apprenticeship while you’re still at school? It’s called a school-based apprenticeship and it’s designed to give you a taste of what’s to come later on. It also speeds up the whole process of getting qualified, which is pretty sweet. Have a chat to your careers advisor about school-based apprenticeships if you want to get a head start.

3. Do a pre-apprenticeship

Pre-Apprenticeships give you a Certificate II in Building and Construction which covers many aspects of the selected trade.  Pre-aprpenticeships are a perfect starting point for a career in the building and construction industry.

4. Talk to people in the industry

It’s always a good idea to chat to some veterans of the industry and get a vibe for what it’s actually like to do the trade irl. Whether you’re scrolling a thread on reddit or having a coffee with the tiler who’s been working on your mum’s new kitchen, don’t be afraid to ask a few questions.

5. Try to get some casual labouring work

The best chefs started as dishwashers, the greatest carpenters were once labourers and you can bet that your favourite hairdresser started out sweeping floors. Finding an entry-level job on weekends or after school is often the best way to figure out whether the industry will suit you.