Kansas City, Missouri is truly the "Heartland" of the country. The greater metropolitan area is the hub for much of the trade, transportation, agriculture, and manufacturing services that must pass from coast to coast or from top to bottom. As a result, there exist numerous vocational and career opportunities for those with degree certification from one of Kansas City's countless trade schools. In fact, trade and transportation represent two of the largest job sectors in Kansas City, making the region an attractive destination for those interested in automotive repair, design, and manufacturing. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports the following May 2009 employment numbers for Kansas City's top-hiring industries:
- Trade, Transportation, and Utilities. 199,300 jobs
- Government. 160,100 jobs
- Professional and Business Services. 146,500 jobs
- Education and Health Services. 125,600
- Leisure and Hospitality. 99,100
Trade Schools and a Down Economy in Kansas City, Missouri
Despite Kansas City's reliance on heavy industry and manufacturing, the city has managed to weather the current economic climate quite well. No matter what type of trade schools or diploma programs you pursue, there is a good chance that this city of 429,000 residents has a need for your skills and expertise. The BLS reports the following mean hourly wages for some of the top jobs available to graduates of technical and trade school degree, diploma, and certificate programs (for September 2008):
- Computer Systems Analyst at $33.12
- Sales Representative, Wholesale and Manufacturing at $39.87
- Construction Equipment Operator at $28.06
- Medical and Clinical Laboratory Technologist at $22.26
- Truck Driver, Heavy and Tractor-Trailer at $21.77
Kansas City's unemployment rate is at or below the national average, with some industries even experiencing notable growth. Those who attend vocational or technical schools in tourism, hospitality, education, or health might be surprised to discover that their job prospects are quite favorable after graduation.
