Back to School: Going to Trade School at 40

trade school over 40

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If you’re over 40 and you’ve been thinking about changing careers, you’re not alone. Surveys have revealed that nearly 80 percent of people were dissatisfied with their jobs in 2010. 1 If you’ve been unhappy in your current position for a while, maybe it’s time for you to make the switch. Studies have shown it’s never too late to learn a new skill. Here are some facts about changing careers at 40 and why trade school can be an excellent option for this exciting transition.

How Common Is Starting a New Career at 40?

Many people choose their careers in their 20s. A lot can change in two decades: marriages, children, mortgages, and other milestones. What worked for you then may not anymore. It’s also not uncommon to realize at some point that one’s first career choice was a mistake. In fact, only 41 percent of people in their 40s and 50s aren’t working their dream job.

Status of Older Workers?

Yes, a survey from the American Institute for Economic Research recently revealed that 90 percent of older workers who wanted to change careers were able to do so successfully. 2 Research on the learning success for older adults indicates that they are able to learn new skills, even ones involving new technology. Training suited to the needs and preferences of older adults was found to be a key factor in their learning success. 3

In addition, other studies have shown that workers aged 50 and older are more motivated and make fewer mistakes than younger ones. They’re also well versed in technology. Also, older employers tend to be more productive even in more physically demanding jobs like skilled trades. 4

What Career to Choose?

If you’re unsure, how do you choose a career? Choosing one that is in-demand and offers opportunities for advancement can ensure you’ll find satisfying work once you complete your training. You may want to consider the skilled trades. Not only have shortages of skilled workers like welders, pipefitters, and electricians been reported in recent years, but also many of these fields are predicted to have faster than average job growth in the near future and training for them takes less time than getting another degree.

Have You Considered a Career in the Skilled Trades?

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What Are the Barriers to Changing Careers?

Switching jobs is never easy. At 40 it may even be more difficult than when you were 20 because you’re more established. It’s likely you have a family, a mortgage, and other commitments that would preclude you from spending four years in college. Fortunately, trade school can allow you to enter a new field in less than a year. For example, you can complete welding training or electrician school in a shorter amount of time.

If you’d like to learn more about training to become a welder, electrician, or pipefitter, contact Tulsa Welding School today. TWS has been preparing students for employment in the skilled trades since 1949 and can help you make the switch to an exciting new career.

Additional Sources

This blog has been labeled as archived as it may no longer contain the most up-to-date data. For a list of all current blog posts, please visit our blog homepage at https://www.tws.edu/blog/