Getting ahead in any industry requires developing skills that colleagues lack. Not everyone has the time or money to go back and earn a four-year degree. Luckily, other alternatives are available. Certifications are one of the most popular choices.
What are certifications? These official documents verify that a person has extensive knowledge in a particular field. Adding a list of competed certifications to a resume gives applicants an advantage over other qualified candidates. In-person courses are held at local colleges and training centers across the country. Some online sources, such as zotapro.com, make it easy to search for specific course offerings. These classes may be either face-to-face or virtual.
In-Demand Courses
There are countless certification courses available, as nearly every industry offers a variety of advanced training programs. Some even provide certificates of completion or state-issued licensees to those who pass the required classes. Here are some of the most popular certifications that employers look for.
Project Management Certifications
Project managers must multitask, maintain multiple work areas, and monitor many employees at once. Being successful in this position requires a lot of experience. Advanced education and training also help. A certificate in this field demonstrates a person has the necessary skills to oversee large projects to completion.
First Aid Certifications
Workers in nearly every industry benefit from obtaining first aid certifications. However, it’s especially beneficial to those who work in high-risk environments, such as around heavy machinery or handling hazardous chemicals. After completing the course, individuals will have the skills to react quickly during an emergency and stabilize injuries until medical professionals arrive.
Trade Certifications
Carpenters, welders, HVAC professionals, other skilled trade professionals are always in high demand. These professions require extensive knowledge of specialized equipment not taught in traditional school environments. Although most tradesmen must complete years of training and earn a license before working alone, they can boost their income by adding trade certifications to their resumes.
How to Sign Up for Courses
Certification classes only have a limited number of spots available. In-person courses tend to fill up faster than online ones because of limited space. Most have a simple application form. Applicants may have to pay a fee, but some industries offer free classes. Always check the minimum requirements before applying. Some courses only ask for a high school diploma, but others may require higher education degrees or on-the-job experience.
Finishing a certification course is a big deal. These comprehensive classes pack a lot of valuable information in a short amount of time. Passing the final exams isn’t always easy and requires plenty of studying. However, the benefits of getting certified are well worth a few months of hard work.
After earning a certificate, workers have more industry leverage. They can negotiate a higher salary and gain credibility. Many decide to complete more courses, and some eventually branch out to launch their own businesses.
Take an Extra Step Up the Industrial Ladder
Hard work pays off, and obtaining certifications or licenses helps propel workers up the industry ladder faster. There are courses offered for every industry, whether you work in a blue-collar field or at a white-collar corporate job. Be sure to look for classes that introduce new skills to challenge your mind. Certifications more than pay for themselves down the road.
