The field of home repair encompasses a wide range of technical proficiencies, from electrical and plumbing systems to lighting fixtures and improved ventilation. Many of those who enroll in a home repair certification course will go on to work for construction or home maintenance companies, and some will additionally start their own home repair businesses after garnering a few years of experience.
Many people choose to enroll in online home repair certificate programs online in order to further their training and pick up extra skills, while others earn the certification to bolster their existing careers in construction or home maintenance in the hope of receiving a promotion.
Vocational Certificate
Exclusively online home repair certificate programs are somewhat rare because web-based curricula lacks the hands-on component that many industry experts consider absolutely essential for learning the trade. However, students may opt for a hybrid program that combines online course work with classroom learning.
Many programs do not have any requirements beyond a high school diploma or GED. However, some may require completion of general classes such as English composition, industrial math, wood and/or metal shop, or computer science, which might be taken at either the high school or community college level.
Most programs take between one and two years and include up to 50 credit hours. Students will learn the principles of construction, drafting, surveying, as well as fundamentals of safety and a broad overview of construction law.
While certification is voluntary, many workers opt to attain it to show their competency. The Society for Maintenance and Reliability Professionals provides testing for the Certified Maintenance and Reliability Professional or CMRP. To maintain certification, the worker must have 50 hours of continuing education over a three-year period.
What’s Next for Home Repair Certificate Holders?
Those who complete certificate programs in home repair online will be able to seek out job openings for a wide variety of positions within the home improvement industry, including home inspection, interior design, siding installation, roof repair, and renovation work. Other positions, such as those involving heavy machinery or hazardous materials cleanup, will require the graduate to obtain a specialized license. A license and further training are also required for specializations in areas like plumbing, carpentry, or HVAC repair.
The median salary for home repair workers was $36,170 in 2014, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The career outlook is positive for this industry, total job growth is projected to reach 6% between 2014 and 2024. Since many of these workers specialize in residential work, job openings are often dependent upon the real estate market and can fluctuate with the housing changes. However, many people opt to repair items during poor economic times (instead of replacing them), which can result in even more work for those who specialize in repairs rather than renovations.