Leap Of Faith
Trying to get a better paying job with limited skills is frustrating. The hard and soft skills I’ve acquired working in the retail industry over the last 5 years has an average value of no more than $14 p/h to companies doing the hiring. I’m in my early thirties right now and my biggest fear is not being able to move the dial fast enough on earning a higher salary if I stay stuck in the retail industry for another 5yrs.
I read an article last week on how the manufacturing industry was making a comeback into the US but hiring managers were having a tough time finding skilled workers. In the same article I also found some info on a free advanced manufacturing training program being offered at a local career resource center. I did some research on the advanced manufacturing industry and discovered a CNC Programer can earn up to $18 p/h. Now that’s a starting salary I can build on!!
The training program is intense though. It runs for 8 weeks, Mon-Fri, 9a - 3:30p which means I would have slide back to part-time hrs or quit my retail job if management decides they don’t want to help accommodate me. The training program will help me gain all the necessary skills to qualify for an advanced manufacturing position but there’s no job offer guaranteed at the end of training.
8 weeks with limited or no income is a long time especially if I’m unable to find another job immediately after I graduate. I really need to get on a higher paying career track but I’m not sure if an extended training program like this one is worth the risk.
Has anyone ever made a similar leap of faith at anytime during their worklife? The enrollment deadline is next is next week but I’m not sure if this is the right move for me.
Changing careers in a low unemployment economy with no promise of a job is risky. Consider improving your retail skills so that you will be qualified for a higher paying retail job. Find a mentor to guide you.
Really, that's a no brainier,if you pay bills there is no luxury to take time off like that. Before you know your in deeper dept. Sucks Figure out a plan that can work with me on line in the evenings after work,other then that what your proposing is insane to me Can you find another avenue.
I think if it's something you're really interested in doing, then definitely go for it! You could even try talking to your manager first to say that's something your looking at doing and see if they would be able to accommodate you during that time.
While you're doing the program, apply for the position.