Thinking about a future in the trades? Whether you want to weld, draft, or operate machines, the choices you make in high school can give you a head start. The right classes prepare you for trade school prep, apprenticeships, and entry-level careers that pay well and offer long-term growth.
In this article, we’ll walk through the best high school classes for trades, explain how they prepare you for welding and drafting classes, and show how Chief Industries supports students ready to jump into trade careers.
1. Math Classes
Math might not be everyone’s favorite, but it’s one of the most useful skills for trades.
- Why it matters: Welders use geometry and algebra to calculate angles and measurements. Machine operators rely on math to set up machinery, check tolerances, and work with decimals. Drafters need trigonometry to scale drawings and create accurate designs.
- High school classes to take: Algebra I & II, Geometry, Trigonometry, or any applied technical math.
- Extra insight: Even fractions and decimals are important. Being confident with a tape measure, calipers, and simple equations makes you much faster and more accurate in the shop.
2. Science Classes
Science explains how materials, machines, and forces work.
- Why it matters: Physics teaches the principles of heat, electricity, and motion—essential for welding and machine operation. Chemistry shows how metals and gases react, which is critical when working with welding materials. For drafters, material science helps them design with the right structures in mind.
- High school classes to take: Physics, Chemistry, and any engineering or applied science electives.
- Extra insight: Understanding science means you won’t just follow steps—you’ll know why a technique works, which makes problem-solving easier on the job.
3. Shop & Welding Classes
Hands-on classes are the most direct way to prepare for the trades.
- Why it matters: Shop and welding classes teach you how to handle tools, work safely, and build real projects. Welding and drafting classes at this level often provide a head start on professional certifications or apprenticeships.
- High school classes to take: Welding, Metal Shop, Automotive, Woodshop, or Industrial Technology.
- Extra insight: Even if your school doesn’t have a welding program, mechanical or construction electives build the same comfort with tools and safety skills. Getting that hands-on experience now makes trade school prep much easier later.
Learn more about the importance of welding and drafting classes when starting your career.
4. Drafting & CAD Classes
If you like design or computers, drafting might be the perfect trade career.
- Why it matters: Drafters create blueprints and technical drawings that welders and machine operators use. Even welders benefit from understanding blueprints, since many projects start with a CAD file or technical diagram.
- High school classes to take: Drafting, Architecture Design, Engineering Graphics, or Computer-Aided Design (CAD).
- Extra insight: CAD skills are in demand. Knowing programs like AutoCAD or SolidWorks in high school can land you internships or give you an edge in technical training.
5. Computer & Tech Classes
Technology is changing every trade career.
- Why it matters: Machine operators often run CNC (computer-controlled) machines. Drafters use CAD software daily. Even welders now work with automated and robotic systems.
- High school classes to take: Computer Science, Programming, Robotics, or IT Fundamentals.
- Extra insight: Learning how to think like a programmer helps you understand machine logic. Robotics or electronics classes are especially useful because they combine mechanics and coding—just like modern manufacturing.
6. Career & Technical Education (CTE) Programs
Many high schools offer CTE programs designed for students interested in trades.
- Why it matters: These programs often include real-world training and sometimes even industry certifications. They help you test-drive a career before you commit to it.
- High school classes to take: Welding, Machine Shop, Drafting/Design, or Construction within a CTE program.
- Extra insight: Some schools partner with local community colleges or companies. Students can graduate with both a diploma and credits toward trade school prep.
Explore how Chief supports students through high school classes for trades.
7. Electives That Help
Not all helpful classes are labeled “trade.” Some electives build the soft skills that employers value.
- Why it matters: Communication, teamwork, and problem-solving matter in every trade career. Electives can build these skills in unexpected ways.
- High school classes to take: Art (for design thinking), Business (for project management), Agriculture (for applied mechanics), or Speech/Communications.
- Extra insight: Many tradespeople eventually become supervisors or even run their own businesses. Understanding communication and basic management gives you an edge.
See how Chief supports trade school prep with opportunities right after high school.
FAQs
What are the best high school classes for trades?
Math, science, shop, drafting, and computer classes prepare you for welding, machine operation, and drafting careers.
Are welding and drafting classes available in high school?
Yes, many schools offer welding and drafting classes as part of shop or CTE programs, giving you hands-on experience before trade school.
Do I need trade school after high school classes?
Trade school prep in high school builds a strong foundation, but many careers allow you to start entry-level after graduation with on-the-job training.
What soft skills should I focus on?
Teamwork, reliability, communication, and problem-solving are just as important as technical skills in the trades.
Does Chief Industries hire high school graduates?
Yes. Chief offers opportunities in welding, drafting, and machine operation. Call 308-389-7200 or contact us to learn more.
Quick Takeaways
- Math and science classes prepare you for accuracy and problem-solving.
- Shop, welding, and drafting classes give you hands-on experience.
- CAD and computer courses connect directly to modern trade work.
- CTE programs often include certifications and job experience.
- Electives like art or business sharpen creativity and communication.
- Chief Industries supports high school graduates looking to start their careers.
Ready to Build Your Future?
The choices you make in high school matter. By loading up on math, science, shop, and drafting courses, you’re building the foundation for a career in welding, drafting, or machine operation. Electives and CTE programs add even more practical skills that make you stand out when applying for trade school or entry-level jobs.Chief Industries helps students take the next step with training, apprenticeships, and career opportunities. Call 308-389-7200 or contact us today to explore your options and start preparing for a rewarding trade career.
