What are vocational skills?

Gaining vocational skills can be done in a variety of settings, like internships and apprenticeships, but one of the most common places to obtain them is by attending vocational schools. These schools specialize in a variety of trades and crafts.

Certain high schools also have vocational programs where students can learn certain vocational skills associated with different professions. In addition, there are also individual courses people can take at trade associations to gain vocational skills.

Here are some examples of common vocational skills and the sub-skills that are associated with each:

• Bookkeeping skills

  Bookkeepers often keep and update financial records and databases in an office or company setting. These roles require candidates to be efficient in data entry, keeping track of receipts, paying and managing invoices, and other fundamental financial duties.

  The sub-skills associated with bookkeeping are math skills, computer skills, organization, attention to detail, problem-solving, and communication.

• Electrician skills

  An electrician is a professional that handles electrical issues. Electricians handle malfunctioning and broken electrical equipment. They also can install electrical equipment. They provide services to a wide variety of companies and people with electrical needs.

  They may perform work on a person's residence, a corporate office, a school, or industrial facilities, for instance. They have a primary focus on safety and functionality concerning electrical equipment.

  Their work requires them to understand blueprints, diagnose and troubleshoot electrical problems, and perform installations and repairs.

  The sub-skills associated with being an electrician are problem-solving, technical ability and knowledge, diagnostic skills, time management, patience, team coordination and management, and math skills.

• Auto tech skills

  Auto technicians must have a wide range of vocational skills to properly perform their job. These revolve around inspecting cars and diagnosing any malfunctions or maintenance required.

  Auto techs seek to repair and update different components of vehicles, such as their suspension, tires, power components, fuel intake, transmission, electrical and coding systems. Some auto techs may have vocational skills specific to different brands, makes, or models of cars.

  The sub-skills associated with being an auto tech are mechanical skill and knowledge, manual dexterity, problem-solving abilities, strong work ethic, and attention to detail.

• Carpentry skills

  Carpenters need vocational skills to build and install wooden frameworks and structures. They also often possess technical skills and knowledge on repairing or installing specific building features, such as roofing or flooring materials.

  They work on a variety of different projects involving wood. These might be small projects, like furniture, or large-scale projects, like the wood framing or skeleton of a residential home.

  The sub-skills associated with carpentry are math skills, measuring abilities, mechanical knowledge and skills, attention to detail, physical aptitude, communication, and team management and collaboration.