Learning new skills to work more with your hands

The United States, as well as a number of other developed nations, are experiencing a shortage of skilled workers. At the start of last year, over 7 million skilled labor positions were unfilled and just 6.5 million were actively looking for jobs. Infrastructure has suffered the greatest because of this shortage and the job market is being competed with private projects, which aggravates the effects of the lack of manpower to do these types of jobs.

It is apparent that learning new skills would be profitable as the demand for such jobs are on the rise. The initial apprehension of any interested person would be the prevailing average wage on the particular job market. However, learning the skills will grant you the ability to do freelance jobs by which you’ll have some control over the pricing.

Here are some skills you definitely can learn to add to your portfolio.

1. Welding

This is one of the higher paying skills you can learn. It may require you to take classes and earn a certificate saying your level or what particular type of welding you specialize in. Being a welder will allow you to participate in countless industries. It will also allow you to travel, though some jobs may post some risks at times, with the proper training you’ll be able to do it well.

Welding is basically joining two or more segments of metal and putting in the filler material. A career in welding will entail a number of important aspects to consider. First, you should be able to get used to welding with the proper measures. They also recommend that, even when practicing, the use of safety protective gear must be observed. There are different types of welding machines and you will have to select the one that’ll fit your purpose and so it is advisable to get to know them. You can learn from online resources such as reviews and references to familiarize yourself with the different equipment. Adam Mason is an expert on welding machines and has made comprehensive reviews of a number of these machines. You don’t need to be an expert immediately, but it pays to know more about the things that you’ll be handling. Also, getting to know the machine is important in being a welder because it might entail a different method in operating them. There will also be a need to know basic electrical systems as you will be working extensively with electric currents.

2. Masonry

This is one of the oldest forms of skill and trade and in recent times it has seen a rise in demand, especially in infrastructure as well as in the structural designs. Learning this skill will give you a chance to tap into a job market that has a high demand for it.

You will start to learn about basic masonry materials like concrete blocks, clay bricks, and stone. Then the correct masonry process like furrowing, spreading of mortar, buttering, and bricklaying. You will then be familiarized with the different tools used in masonry. Apart from the physical job itself, you will also have to gain an appreciation of math to be able to read the specifications of the plan.

3. Carpentry

Learning carpentry is one of the most fulfilling things you can do. This is because of numerous projects you can do at home in addition to the increasing demand of modern-day carpenters in the industry.

You will start to learn about the modern practices of the carpenters, which highlights safety and working in a team. Next are basic materials in carpentry like lumber, building boards, engineered wood products, and pressure-treated lumber. You will also learn about concrete block construction and commercial construction methods and various joining methods. You will also learn about different power tools and how to use them.

4. Crafting

This is a broad term referring to different disciplines of creating or designing something. Hobbyists or professional enthusiasts can make their own crafts like basket weaving, woodworking, metal works, beer brewing, etc. These artful creations are a good way to spend your time and improve your skill set. Although mass production has virtually diminished the profitability of making crafts, being socially and culturally inclined will definitely start with the individual’s ability to create their own expression. In Europe, glass and metal artisans still live and are popular among the global audience by providing handmade crafts to tourists.

5. Electrical

Electrical trade has seen a rise in demand in recent years, primarily because they are closely involved in infrastructure projects. Their job ranges from maintenance, electrical repair, and installations. They are an integral part of any building projects ranging from residential programs to skyrise enterprise and industrial ventures. You will learn the fundamentals of electricity. Your skills will start with wiring systems, voltage, resistance, and current principles.

Learning a new skill will not only be beneficial to you at your workplace but it’ll also come in handy when you want to work on a project at home. Being able to do some work will keep your mind sharp and your body in shape.