You better learn a trade

Camille Mc Millan Rambharat

“You better learn a trade.” I promised to return to this phrase many Caribbean parents and educators say —sometimes half-jokingly, sometimes as a sharp warning to struggling children.

But let’s be honest: that line was often delivered with a tone of disappointment—suggesting a skilled trade was a last option for children not cut out for academics. What many overlook is that tradespeople must excel in math, science, critical thinking, and problem-solving. And today? Tradespeople earn more than many ‘professionals’.

Looking back, I realise my brothers and I were introduced to the trades early and that was neither punishment nor a last option. As the only girl, I was always curious about what these four brothers were up to—especially when it came to fixing our father’s car. Whether I was sitting on my dad’s lap ‘driving’ at five or six, helping instal car stereos, or passing tools as they worked, I was always learning by doing.

One brother worked at a nearby paint shop even before sitting the Common Entrance exam. He loved the job and quickly became skilled. Around that time, our father gave us one of the greatest gifts: a hands-on education through his printing business. Long before technology, we learned to operate printing machines, develop film in our darkroom, bind books, and explore graphic design—my youngest brother and I loved the latter.

Later, I naturally took charge of driving and vehicle maintenance—because I enjoyed it—while my husband gladly handled most of the cooking. It’s a partnership that works for us.

We raised our three children with the same values. From early on, we encouraged them to explore entrepreneurship and skilled trades. One of the most fulfilling chapters of my career was working at the National Energy Skills Center, helping young people build confidence and secure sustainable jobs. To this day, it brings me joy to see many of them thriving.

Today, our two sons are also certified tradesmen working with reputable companies—one even in a leadership role. Some old skills are still relevant but technology including AI is a big part of what they do. Their student loans are paid off—or nearly so—and they’re qualified to work anywhere in the world. We always tell them: go where the opportunities are. Our daughter, much like me, can assemble any piece of furniture—but her true passion lies in art, design, hair, nails, and fashion, while also in university.

My four brothers used the skills they gained in our family’s printing business to work locally and abroad for years before transitioning to other careers—proof that trades open doors locally and globally.

Now, working for an agency overseeing skilled trades, I’m reminded of the dignity, purpose, and opportunity that come from mastering a skill. Whether I’m meeting with training providers, employers, or industry stakeholders, the mission remains the same: to build strong apprenticeship pathways for the next generation—including foreign-trained workers looking for a fresh start.

Skilled trades are not punishment or a last option. They are essential. They are innovative. They are noble. They make lots of money!

So we must ask: Are our young people being introduced to trades early enough and often enough? Are we preparing them to compete on a global scale? And are we making sure our daughters are included? The next time you hear someone say, “You better learn a trade,” take it as both a compliment—and sound advice.

And let us never forget: Our Saviour, Jesus Christ, was a carpenter.

Photo by Антон Дмитриев on Unsplash