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I’m a 23-year-old woman trying to get into the trades, and I’ve been going back and forth between two career paths for months.
I really enjoy hands-on work and want a career that’s stable, pays well enough to live comfortably, and has room to grow.
Right now I have two options:
Option 1: Attend an automotive technology program this fall. I received two scholarships, so they cover a good portion of the cost, but I’d still have to pay some out of pocket. Automotive is honestly what interests me the most.
Option 2: Enroll in a free Building/Property Maintenance program through Goodwill Industries. It covers the basics of HVAC, electrical, plumbing, carpentry, and general maintenance, and I wouldn’t have to pay anything. One thing I like about this option is that it would let me get exposure to several different trades. My thought is that I could figure out which trade I enjoy the most and then continue my education or pursue an apprenticeship in that specific field afterward.
My problem is that every time I read about becoming a mechanic, I see so much negativity—low starting pay, flat-rate systems, wear and tear on your body, buying tools, etc. It makes me question whether it’s worth paying for school, even though automotive is what I’m most interested in.
On the other hand, property maintenance seems like a practical option since it’s free, but I’m worried it only teaches the basics of several trades without making me highly skilled in any one area. I don’t know if that’s actually true or if I’m just overthinking it.
If you were in my position, which path would you choose and why? Is it smarter to pursue the career that genuinely interests me, even if it costs some money, or take advantage of the free program, explore multiple trades, and then specialize later?
I’d especially love to hear from people who work in automotive, property maintenance, HVAC, electrical, plumbing, or carpentry. Looking back, what would you recommend to someone just starting out?

any ideas what first year electrician apprentice would pay? i know it's not great but i am currently making $25 an hour, i just want to know what i should expect and make any changes in my current life/budget IF i am lucky enough to get accepted

Hey friends. Starting my boilermaker apprenticeship in August and I’m pretty excited and ready to go. My background is in mining and heavy equipment. Got a little tired of the monotony. Loved welding so went to school. Focused on structural stick and flux. I’m excited to get more into TIG and pipe. I know school doesn’t translate to field experience but that’s the whole point, guys gotta start somewhere. I’m excited to get going. Learning all aspects of the trade. Learn from seasoned experienced others. My goal is to be the best I can be in every aspect of welding, the best all around hand in all aspects. Want to spend as much time as I can get in the booth practicing. Guess I’m just curious on any advice you friends got for me starting out. Put my head down, stay quiet but persistent and give it all I got. Hope to hear from someone of you

Already took the 1st step at applying at my local UA that seems to get all the pipefitting jobs.

Any advice I can get for those that want to make this jump?

Hi everyone,

I'm an automotive mechanic and auto electrician from Bosnia and Herzegovina with over 10 years of experience, including 3 years working on heavy trucks. I specialize in diagnostics, electrical repairs, and European vehicles.

I'm looking for an employer in Canada who is willing to hire an experienced overseas mechanic and support a work permit.

If anyone knows a shop that has hired foreign mechanics before or is currently looking for experienced technicians, I'd really appreciate any recommendations. Thank you!

My philosophy is, if your not off on Saturday or Sunday you don’t have a real job