Have You Heard? The Propane Industry Is a Great Alternative to a Four-Year Degree

Did you know that the average student loan debt is $32,731 per student? _[1] No wonder high school students are looking for other options after graduation! The cost of college has increased approximately 20% in the last five years and is predicted to continue inflating in the future.

Before you panic, there’s another career path that requires fewer years of schooling at a lower cost: trade school. Students who enroll in vocational professions in the propane industry save on their certifications AND begin earning a full-time salary two years sooner than people who enroll in a four-year university degree program.

Earning Potential of Skilled Workers in the Propane Industry vs. College Graduates

One of the main concerns that parents and students have when it comes to trade school is future earning potential. Here’s what the experts at HVAC.com have to say about that in a recent article:

The average annual pay for a HVAC technician in the United States is $49,234. Annual salaries can be as high as $74,000 or as low as $24,500, but most range from $39,500 to $56,500…HVAC salaries have the potential to greatly increase over time as technicians gain real-world experience and skills that make them invaluable to their employers.

A college degree has its benefits, but that path isn’t for everyone. Many students want to avoid being responsible for student loan debt that can last decades into their working life. The average cost of a 4-year bachelor’s degree at a university is $170,960 (and years of interest), while most HVAC certificates only cost between $1,200 and $15,000. It’s easy to see why many students take the skilled worker route when you consider the price difference along with the fact that trade school certifications allow two extra working years during your prime.

Start Connecting with Potential Employers in the Propane Industry

Whether you’re a high school graduate or have already begun taking steps toward a trade career in propane, it’s never too early to start connecting with potential future employers in the propane industry. Building these relationships now can help you gain experience and even secure a job when the time is right. Create your free profile today to start connecting with propane companies near you.

[1]https://www.valuepenguin.com/average-student-loan-debt#:~:text=The%20average%20college%20debt%20among,outstanding%20in%20student%20loan%20debt.