Jobs return to America, students return to trade schools

PHOENIX — Trade schools around the country are bursting at the seams. American manufacturers are looking for skilled factory workers because of the return of overseas production back to the United States.

“For all of the soundbites about how manufacturing in this country is declining, I think there is still a pressing need for Americans to get the skills regionally to support local businesses and employers,” said Ryan Lauzon of the University of Phoenix.

Lauzon said schools are getting flooded with students, ranging from young people who are starting out to mid-career workers retraining after a layoff.

“People are really putting the value on those trades and skilled work force jobs that are out there, and the ability to start your own business or contribute in a skilled manufacturing job,” said Lauzon.

Companies are looking for workers such as tool and die makers or machinists. Lauzon hopes that trade schools can give the companies what they need.

One trade school in Minneapolis said it has the highest number of students enrolled in 15 years.