Office jobs aren’t for everyone. There are so many other options and one of them could turn out to be the best choice for you!

Non-office jobs involve both skilled and non-skilled labor. Some involve completing an apprenticeship program; others may require vocational training or certification; still others include on-the-job training. A few examples of non-office jobs include cooks, painters, hairdressers, welders, drivers, electricians, flight attendants, emergency responders, tour guides, veterinary technicians, custodians and so much more.  Either way, thinking about a career outside the office is worth considering.

Today, we are sharing a few advantages of non-office jobs.

  1. Start working without a four year degree

A college degree isn’t the only option to get the skills you need to work. Earning a college degree takes time and is expensive. Non-office jobs often require shorter training programs and education that you can obtain for a fraction of the cost of a four-year degree.  Contact your local State Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) agency for help in exploring training programs. They may be able to provide information, cost comparisons of programs and explore the availability of financial assistance. VR agencies are available in every state and provide a variety of services to help people with disabilities return to work or work for the first time. These may include intensive education, rehabilitation, career counseling and job placement assistance.

Another resource for those on disability looking for non-office positions is to contact Mission Possible Employment Services.  Over the years, we have helped hundreds of disabled individuals find their careers in non-office positions ranging from ranch hands, restaurant workers, hospital workers, and work-from-home (remote or virtual) positions. Others have found success through the Ticket to Work Program in employment opportunities that fully accommodate their disability, when needed.

  1. Gain experience that can lead to more advanced positions

Maybe you have goals toward a job that’s more advanced and requires more experience. An entry-level job in that industry is a great place to start. You’ll get on-the-job experience and learn more about what specific path you’d like to take.

Here’s an example: If you aspire to be a head chef in a large restaurant or banquet venue, you can start off in a small local restaurant.  Many top chefs began in a local fast-food restaurant or small bakery. You’ll learn the basics and get more experience as you go. Working in commercial kitchen can teach you not only about food preparation, but about the processes involved in that environment, all of which can lead you to a more advanced role.

  1. Learn while you earn with apprenticeships

Apprenticeship programs allow you to get paid while you gain work experience, classroom instruction and credentials that employers like to see. You can get hands-on experience that leads to future employment. And apprenticeship is a great option, especially if you are just starting your employment journey or switching to a new field.

An apprenticeship is a real job. It allows you to lean and earn at the same time. Apprenticeships are available in fields such as manufacturing, healthcare, IT, hospitality and more.  According to Apprenticeship.gov 92% of apprentices retain employment after completing and apprenticeship. There is much more information on Apprenticeship.gov , including how to apply for an apprenticeship and current programs available.

  1. Start work sooner

Non-office jobs often have a shorter application process that starts your journey to financial independence more quickly.  Many employers have big signs and announcements at their locations asking people to come in for on-the-spot interviews!  Online job boards are frequently updated with jobs that need to be filled immediately.  For example www.CareerOnestop.org has posted jobs in various industries that need applicants.  From our personal MPES experience, some of these jobs are in the food industry. Restaurants and shops are in dire need of employees to staff their stores.  These are excellent opportunities to get your start in employment!

  1. Earn good wages

There are good paying non-office jobs and career paths. The opportunity to earn a living doesn’t only exist in office jobs.  Many non-office jobs are among the industries with the fastest growing wages!  There are many websites offering blue collar jobs and information on the types of jobs available.

For more information on jobs available for disabled individuals, please check out Ticket to Work @ The Work Site – Ticket Overview (ssa.gov).  Call or email us at Mission Possible (Tina@mpes.net or Becky@mpes.net) .  We are here to answer your questions and get you started on your new career path!

‘Till next time,

Becky

Source:  Ticket to Work Blog 8/12/22