The industrial sector encompasses a wide range of industries – manufacturing, construction, energy, transportation, etc – and if you’re interested in pursuing a career in this field, it’s a good idea because it means a career that
offers many opportunities for growth and advancement, as well as job security; a crucial part of the economy always in need of skilled workers to fill a variety of roles. Plus, working in the industrial sector can provide a sense of satisfaction knowing that you are contributing to the development of important infrastructure and technologies that benefit society.
So how do you get a career in the industrial sector? Here are some paths to consider.
Trade or Technical school
One of the most straightforward paths to a career in the industrial sector is enrolling in a trade or technical school because such institutions offer programs in areas like welding, electrical work, plumbing, HVAC, automotive repair, and other skilled trades designed to give students specific hands-on training and technical knowledge that can be applied directly to careers in the industrial sector.
Plus, trade and technical schools not only offer focused and practical education that can be completed in a shorter period than a traditional four-year degree program but they also often have strong industry partnerships and job placement programs that help students to start their careers immediately and earn competitive salaries in fields such as manufacturing, construction, and transportation.
Bachelor’s Degree
If you’d pursue a more technical or management-oriented career in the industrial sector, a bachelor’s degree may be necessary as these programs typically take four years to complete coursework in areas such as project management, operations research, industrial design, manufacturing processes, and supply chain management.
Plus, a bachelor’s degree typically means opportunities for internships and co-op experiences that help you gain practical experience and build industry connections.
Overall, a bachelor’s degree is how you can qualify for higher-paying and more specialized roles in the industrial sector, such as production manager, industrial coatings supplier, operations manager, quality control engineer, or industrial engineer.
Military Service
After military service, a lot of veterans transition into careers in the industrial sector as the skills and experience gained through military service, such as discipline, teamwork, problem-solving, and leadership, can be highly valued in the industrial sector. Not only that, several military jobs involve working with heavy equipment, machinery, and technology, so many veterans have a solid foundation for careers in manufacturing, construction, transportation, energy, etc.
Thus, many industrial employers actively seek to hire veterans and offer programs to help them transition to civilian careers, such as mentoring, job training, and job placement assistance.
On-the-job Training
Some industrial jobs, such as working in an assembly line, may not require formal education beyond a high school diploma. Instead, you may be able to learn the necessary skills through on-the-job training and work your way up in the company.
Many employers offer structured training programs that combine classroom instruction with hands-on training that can lead to a clear pathway for career advancement because a strong work ethic, attention to detail, and a willingness to learn and improve are valued in the industrial sector.
Overall, there are many paths to a career in the industrial sector, and the best option for you will depend on your interests, skills, and career goals.