Career Learning Center
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Learn more about trades at Summers PHC and how to join our family
How do I know a trade is for me?
The whole concept of "the trades" developed an unfortunate reputation from the 1990s and onward. Now there is a shortage of people in the trades - and this is an opportunity for you!
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There is no exact definition of a trade, but typically this is work that does not require a college degree and is considered to be very hands-on.
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But don't be fooled! A trade requires a deep set of skills to do well. And these skills are very specific to the trade itself. A college degree may prepare you to "learn how to think", but mastering a trade will mean you "know how to do" AND you'll learn how to think along the way.
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If you like to work with your hands, if you like solving real-world problems involving machinery and other mechanical items, and if you like to learn on-the-go, a trade might be for you.
Trades at Summers PHC
PHC stands for Plumbing, Heating, and Cooling. At Summers, we separate the roles as plumbing technicians and HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) technicians.
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These roles are very different from each other. Both are hard work, both are fun, and both pay very well.
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Plumbing in both Indiana and Illinois is a licensed role. which requires an apprenticeship, a bit of extra education, and a test. While you are employed at Summers, this 'extra education' is paid for you. As a plumber, your investment in time is a little more upfront, but the rewards later are BIG.
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HVAC is a different skill and will work your brain and mind in other ways. There is no formal apprenticeship and you'll be in your own truck fairly quickly.
Why Choose the Summers Career Learning Center?
A fo​ur year college degree may cost you $150,000 and (at least!) four years to accomplish. And then you have to find a job
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A two year technical/vocational school may cost you $15,000... and many times, you'll have to go through additional training when you land a job anyway
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A typical "earn while you learn" arrangement may take six months to complete
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At the Summers Career Learning Center, we're a little different. You will spend time at the center as well as in the field, while you earn the whole time. Our goal is to get you productive in the field in as little as two months - and bring you back over time to build your skills and confidence.
How do I learn more and apply?
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Visit https://summersphc.com/locations/ to find the location where you'd like to work
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Click the 'website' button to visit that location's site
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Click on 'careers'
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Find the job of your dreams. We pride ourselves on being the best trained company in the midwest - in all roles. If you are chosing an entry-level HVAC Technician or Plumbing Apprentice role, you will come through the 101 programs at the Career Learning Center