The economy of Norfolk, Virginia, employs nearly 104,000 individuals - a promising number for those currently asking the question, "why is Norfolk good for vocational students?" The first reason is the 144 miles of shoreline, which is the home of the world's largest naval base and the Northern American NATO Headquarters. Also, Norfolk was recognized on USA Today's "Top 10 Booming Downtowns," based on the city's "decades-long housing, retail and financial booms."
If you are currently looking into attending trade schools in Norfolk, you will be greeted by not only plenty of options for higher education, but also if flourishing industries.
Top Industries in Norfolk
Thanks to Norfolk's massive naval bases, it may seem that employment is heavily based in the military sector; however, there are also quite a few other booming industries worth noting. Some of the largest, fastest-growing industries in Norfolk, Virginia, include:
- Healthcare
- Social Assistance
- Retail Trade
- Food Services
- Hospitality/Accommodations
- Professional Services
- Technical Services
- Utilities
- Mining/ Quarrying
- Gas & Oil Extraction
- Scientific Services
Why is Norfolk Good for Trade and Vocational Students?
If you're looking for technical schools in Norfolk, you won't have to look too hard. With more job opportunities opening for those in skilled trades, finding the right program isn't as difficult as you may think. To help get you started on your search, we recommend checking out these two vocational schools in Norfolk:
- Fortis - This campus offers a variety of programs, especially in the health care and skilled trades areas. Programs include Dental/Medical assisting, Message Therapy, Practical Nursing, Cosmetology and Esthetics Skincare
- Tidewater Tech - These programs focus primarily on technical training and include studies in becoming an Automotive Technician, in HVAC, Combination Welding and Building Maintenance & Repair
Learn More about Norfolk
Demographics | Total Population | 245,592 |
Education and Earnings | # Enrolled in College | 25,128 |
| Median Earnings Without High School Degree | $21,814 | |
| Median Earnings With High School Degree | $28,007 | |
| Median Earnings With Associate Degree | $31,528 |
Commute | Average Commute Time | 21 minutes |
| % Commutes by Walking | 9.8% | |
| % Commutes by Bicycle | 0.7% | |
| % Commutes by Public Transportation | 3.5% |
Housing | Median Housing Cost | $1,127 |
| Median Gross Rent | $1,031 | |
| Median House Value | $199,400 |