Skilled laborers are needed in the current economy — and online certifications will allow you to report for duty sooner rather than later.
Whether electrician, HVAC tech, welder, forklift operator, or auto mechanic, you can be well on your way to a financially and professionally rewarding career with the right certification. If you want to expand your skillset in the trades, one option is a same-day forklift certification. It means you can get to work in short order.
If you’re undecided about which trade you want to enter, don’t stress yourself out. It can be daunting because of the many options, but thinking things through can help.
What follows are five recommendations that will help you select the most appropriate online trade certification to achieve your particular objective.
1. Align the Certification with Your Career Goals
Spend some time thinking about your career goals before choosing the right trade certification. Are you trying to develop a new skill? Do you want to build upon a skill you already have? Is the goal to eventually start your own business?
Different certifications may be more appropriate depending on where you are in your career. Here are some things to think about as you consider certifications:
- If you are new to a vocation, pursue first-level foundation certification in safety procedures and basic skills.
- If you already have experience in a vocation, pursue advanced techniques or specialty certifications.
- If you want to work independently or in your own shop, pursue programs offering entrepreneurial training or license preparation.
Select an online certification that aligns with what you want to do with your career.
2. Choose Programs That Have Industry Accreditation
Certification is only as solid as the entity behind it. The right certifications hold sway with employers, unions, and state licensing boards. To avoid wasting your time or your money, ensure the certifications you’re considering line up with the following:
- Accredited by a credible educational or industry association
- Approved by trade associations
- Used by employers in your targeted field or area
- Subject to state licensing laws, if required
Reading reviews, interviewing trade professionals, or scanning job postings can help you determine which certifications are in highest demand in your trade of choice.
3. Consider the Course Format and Flexibility
Flexibility is perhaps the greatest advantage of online certifications. But that doesn’t necessarily mean all courses are equal.
When choosing an online trade certification, consider the following:
- Is the course taught by an instructor or can you do it on your own?
- Do they have live classes or do they only offer pre-recorded classes?
- Do you do in-person exams or labs?
- How long is the program?
Some programs offer hybrid options, combining online coursework with hands-on training or apprenticeships in your area. Others are 100% remote and may focus more on theoretical knowledge. The right format depends on your schedule, learning style, and whether you need practical experience to succeed in your trade.
4. Check for Hands-On Training or Practice Requirements
Although certifications online are useful in theory and training, it’s also a good idea to prioritize a hands-on component.
So, look for courses that offer you access to simulators or virtual labs, grant you access to workshops or training facilities, and partner with employers or trade unions to offer apprenticeship programs.
There are some professions, like plumbing or electrical work, where you’ll need to fulfill practicum hours or apprenticeships that are state-approved prior to actually making you legally qualified to work.
5. Review Fees, Grants, and ROI
Lastly, think about money. Some certifications are free or relatively inexpensive, but others will cost hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
Look at your choices and review the conditions. A higher certification fee at the beginning can be justified if it puts you in a position to make more money. So, you should consider the return on investment before choosing a certification.
In the trades, practical skill is king — but a strong certification can be the key to getting your foot in the door. Take the time to choose wisely, and you’ll be one step closer to a stable, rewarding, and future-proof career.
Founder Dinis Guarda
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