Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania—a city known for its steel-town past and its evolution into a hub for innovative industries. As the region transitions from its heritage to a growing tech sector, the decision between a traditional four-year college education and pursuing a trade school path has become increasingly important for families. Many parents are grappling with how their children can secure a stable and rewarding future.
“My kid is going to a four-year college, no matter what.” As a former high school college and career counselor, I’ve heard countless versions of this statement from parents.
Growing up, many of us were taught that success required a four-year degree. But times have changed, and it’s time to rethink that narrative. For students who plan to stay or return to Pittsburgh as adults, both pathways—whether a traditional college degree or a trade school education—offer promising futures. The key is understanding the differences in cost, career potential and how these options align with the job market so your child can make the best decision for their future.
Here are some benefits to trade school that parents who see four-year college as their teen’s primary option may not have considered.
Unexpected Benefits of Trade School
Steve Macri, a father and the director of educational outreach at Rosedale Technical College, has spent 23 years in the trade school industry. He has seen how career prospects have shifted over the last two decades. “In my opinion, there are several benefits to choosing a trade school over a traditional four-year college.You’ll come out of school with less debt,” he says. Because trade schools are typically shorter—two years or less—students spend significantly less money than they would in a four-year program. “The average starting salaries are comparable to four-year grads, and in certain trades like electrical or HVAC, salaries can be even higher. What’s key is that students with a trade school education enter their careers much sooner than their four-year peers,” Macri explains. “While some of their friends still have years of schooling ahead, the trade school graduates are already earning money and gaining real-world experience.”
What Makes a Student a Good Fit?
But how do students figure out if trade school is the right choice for them? Macri, who speaks with high schoolers and their parents on a regular basis, knows exactly what qualities make someone a good fit. “When I talk with students, I tell them to have an honest conversation with themselves about what they liked and didn’t like in high school. How do they learn best? If they enjoyed their elective, hands-on classes more than their academic ones, and if they learn better through doing, then they should consider trade or technical school.”
Letting Go of Expectations
Macri warns that some students choose their post- high school paths for the wrong reasons, like following a friend or doing what they think they “should” do. Instead, he encourages students to follow their own interests and passions.
It’s important for parents to remember that their child’s path may not look like what they envisioned. Maybe your daughter is interested in collision repair and has the leadership skills to one day run a body shop. She could earn a certification in collision repair technology in just 16 months and then pursue an associate degree in business management at a community college in under two years. Her journey may not resemble that of a traditional college student, but it could set her up for a fulfilling career with room for advancement.
The job outlook in skilled trades is promising. “There’s projected employment growth in the trades that’s higher than average across all other occupations,” says Macri. With many older workers retiring, the need for skilled workers is growing. For some students, the skilled trades offer a path to a stable, comfortable life with opportunities for growth.
In the end, there’s no one right path. Whether your child chooses a four-year college, a two-year community college, a trade program or to enter the workforce directly after high school, the important thing is that they find a path that fits both their passion and their financial and emotional well-being.
If your child is still exploring their options, you can encourage them to check out the Occupational Information Network (O*NET) at onetcenter.org. It is a great tool
to help them explore different career paths and understand the skills and interests
needed for various jobs.
Carrie Woodard is a National Certified Counselor, National Certified School Counselor
and a Pittsburgh mama of two.
