Students

Not college bound? Everyone wants the chance to be successful in life.  While reaching for professional degrees is the dream of many, it's not for everyone.  There are many technically skilled careers that offer a good wage which create the goods and services that people rely on in their everyday lives.
 
Southern Idaho offers many opportunities for great careers and wages without a four-year degree.  Short-term and long-term career opportunities in manufacturing, construction, and alternative/renewable energy are readily available for high school graduates, CSI students and vocation/technology students.  And, for those entrepreneurs that have a great idea or want to start their own business there are many resources available to help achieve their dream.
 
This site has been designed to provide information and resources for students to explore the many opportunities in our region that can help you realize the American dream right here at home. 

Example of some manufacturing-related jobs available in southern Idaho, not requiring a four-year degree:

Example of some construction-related jobs available in southern Idaho, not requiring a four-year degree:  

Example of some alternative/renewable energy-related jobs available in southern Idaho, not requiring a four-year degree: 

Why are these jobs good career opportunities?  
Businesses offering these jobs are mostly stable, growing and sustainable businesses that offer good pay and benefits.  Today’s manufacturing jobs are advanced manufacturing jobs with technology playing a significant role in many positions.  Technology skills can be obtained through CSI vocational training classes and some on-the-job training.  In general, manufacturing jobs pay above average wages in most areas.  Workers get to handle different situations every day so there’s always something new to learn.  Most positions offer excellent opportunities for advancement. 

Over 1 million jobs in construction will be created over the next decade.  Construction Technology is part of the Engineering and Industrial systems career cluster in Idaho and is fully supported by the Idaho Division of Professional Technical Education.  If you are students are interested in problem-solving, working with a team, and being involved in one of the most in-demand careers in the nation, have them consider a future in this well-paying field. Today technicians can earn early career salary between $30,000 and $60,000 with journeyman technicians earning $70,000.

Most alternative/renewable energy jobs are middle-skill jobs requiring more education than high school, but less than a four-year degree -- and are well within reach for workers as long as they have access to effective training programs and appropriate supports. The green economy demands workers with new skill sets. Some green collar jobs -- say renewable energy technicians -- are brand new. But even more are existing jobs that are being transformed as industries transition to a clean energy economy: computer control operators who can cut steel for wind towers as well as for submarines; or mechanics who can fix an electric engine as well as an internal combustion engine.

Pay Range:    
Of course, pay depends on the position. Range is $10- $30/hour.  Career pay:  $15,000 - $100,000/yr   Compensation makes it possible for home ownership and ability to support a family.  Benefits are generally good and vary by company.

Education Level:      
High School graduation or GED required for about 90% of positions. 

Other: 
Positions may require specialized/vocational training requiring up to a 2-year associate degree in a specific area. Many post-secondary training can be obtained in a shorter period of time. Post-secondary (high school) training translates into a higher wage. There are several programs available that offer financial assistance in these industry sectors. Financial Aid

What kind of high school classes are needed to prepare for a job in manufacturing?     
Science, communications, math, systems/computer training, vocation-specific classes, accounting, and/or finance. Generally, good grades and comprehension in all high school core classes and any type of shop class. Check with your school for specific course information on classes that would help support the career field of your choice in manufacturing.
Cassia Regional Technical Center

What kind of post-secondary classes or training are needed to prepare for a job in manufacturing?      
Depending on position of interest, the College of Southern Idaho offers several programs and certificates to help students better prepare for this industry.  Courses may be needed in engineering, math, management, communication, machining, manufacturing, maintenance, food/dairy science, manufacturing engineering technology (MET), operations/production management, business (marketing, human resources, information technology, finance, accounting, etc.)
Trade & Industry Preparation
Manufacturing

What kind of high school classes are needed to prepare for a job in construction?     
Science, communications, math, systems/computer training, vocation-specific classes, accounting, and/or finance. Generally, good grades and comprehension in all high school core classes and any type of shop class. Encourage your students to check out classes that would help support this career field. Check with your school for specific course information.
Trade & Industry Preparation
Idaho Residential Construction Education

What kind of post-secondary classes or training are needed to prepare for a job in construction?     
Depending on position of interest, the College of Southern Idaho offers several programs and certificates to help students better prepare for this industry.  Courses may be needed in engineering, math, management, communication, cabinet making, residential construction, business (marketing, human resources, information technology, finance, accounting, etc.)
Courses & Programs
Getting Started at CSI
Trade & Industry
Trade & Industry Preparation
Manufacturing
Air Conditioning, Refrigeration & Heating Technology
Woodworking
Drafting
Construction
Welding

What kind of high school classes are needed to prepare for a job in alternative/renewable energy?     
Science, communications, math, systems/computer training, vocation-specific classes, accounting, and/or finance. Generally, good grades and comprehension in all high school core classes and any type of shop class. Encourage your students to check out classes that would help support this career field. Check with your school for specific course information.

What kind of post-secondary classes or training are needed to prepare for a job in alternative/renewable energy?      
Depending on position of interest, the College of Southern Idaho offers several programs and certificates to help students better prepare for this industry.
Alternative/Renewable Energy

What skills or personal traits does an employer look for in a potential employee, aside from education and training?      
Ability/willingness to learn, cooperation, ability to work with others, dedication to a task, organization, getting to work on time, good verbal communication skills, good attitude, good listener, follows direction, pride in work. 

A Fundamental Skills Certificate offers high school students in the Magic Valley and Wood River a commitment to employers to provide qualified graduates for various careers. Upon receiving the certification, many participating businesses have committed to grant interviews to students holding the certificates if they have an opening in their respective businesses. The FSC was originated by a joint effort between industry and education to address competencies that are deemed necessary in the workplace.
Fundamental Skills Certificate