Changing careers or moving into a better position does not always require quitting your current job first. For many workers, leaving a steady paycheck to attend school full time is simply not realistic. Rent, groceries, transportation, childcare, and other expenses still need to be paid.
Fortunately, there are ways to develop new skills while continuing to work. Online courses, evening classes, employer training, vocational programs, and other flexible options can help you prepare for your next opportunity.
The key is choosing skills connected to a realistic career goal and creating a training schedule you can maintain.
1. Start With the Job You Want
Before signing up for a class, identify the type of job you want to pursue. This can prevent you from spending time and money on training that employers may not require.
Search job descriptions for positions that interest you and look for skills that appear repeatedly. Depending on the career, employers may seek abilities involving:
- Computer software
- Customer service
- Bookkeeping
- Project coordination
- Data analysis
- Healthcare support
- Equipment operation
- Skilled trades
- Written and verbal communication
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook can help you research occupations, typical education requirements, job duties, wages, and employment outlook. CareerOneStop, sponsored by the U.S. Department of Labor, also provides career and training information.
Once you identify the skills you need, you can focus your training instead of trying to learn everything at once.
2. Look for Training That Fits Around Work
Working full time does not necessarily rule out education. Many community colleges, vocational schools, adult education programs, and other training providers offer schedules designed for working students.
Options may include:
- Evening classes
- Weekend courses
- Online programs
- Hybrid programs
- Short-term certificate programs
- Part-time vocational training
A shorter program may be useful if the credential is recognized in the occupation you want to enter. However, do not assume that every certificate will improve your employment prospects.
Before enrolling, investigate the program's total cost, schedule, completion requirements, and connection to actual jobs. Check whether a license or certification is required for the occupation and whether the training prepares students for those requirements.
Choosing a flexible program can make it easier to continue earning income while preparing for a career change.
3. Ask Your Employer About Training Opportunities
Your current workplace may provide opportunities to build skills without requiring you to find another job immediately.
Some employers offer:
- Tuition assistance
- Certification reimbursement
- In-house training
- Mentoring
- Job shadowing
- Cross-training
- Professional development courses
Ask your human resources department or supervisor what programs are available and who qualifies.
Cross-training can be especially useful. Learning responsibilities outside your current position may help you develop experience that can eventually qualify you for another role.
For example, an employee working in customer service might gain experience with scheduling, inventory, office software, or team leadership. Those skills may be useful when applying for other positions.
Before using employer-funded education benefits, review the requirements. Some programs have limits on eligible courses, grades, reimbursement amounts, or how long an employee must remain with the company.
4. Explore Financial Help for Education and Training
Training costs can be a major concern for workers who already have household expenses. Before paying the full cost yourself, investigate whether assistance may be available.
If you are considering an eligible college or career school, completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) can help determine your eligibility for federal student aid.
Depending on your circumstances and program, possible resources may include:
- Federal Pell Grants
- State or school grants
- Scholarships
- Employer education benefits
- Workforce development programs
- Apprenticeship opportunities
American Job Centers provide employment and training services in communities across the United States. Eligible workers may be able to access training support through workforce programs.
Registered Apprenticeships are another option, particularly for people interested in skilled occupations. These programs combine structured training with paid employment.
Always check eligibility requirements and program details before assuming a particular type of assistance will cover your training.
5. Build a Schedule You Can Actually Maintain
Learning while working requires time, so a realistic schedule matters.
You do not necessarily need several free hours every day. Consistent periods of focused learning can add up over weeks and months.
Start by reviewing your weekly schedule. Identify times when training is least likely to interfere with work, sleep, childcare, and other essential responsibilities.
A simple plan might include:
- 1. Choosing one career goal.
- 2. Identifying two or three important skills.
- 3. Selecting one course or training program.
- 4. Setting aside specific study periods each week.
- 5. Practicing the new skill whenever possible.
- 6. Updating your résumé as you gain experience.
Avoid taking on several courses at once simply because you want to change careers quickly. An overloaded schedule can make it harder to finish what you start.
Building new job skills does not have to require an immediate leap into unemployment or full-time school. A gradual approach can allow you to maintain income while preparing for your next opportunity.
Start with a clear career goal, research the skills employers expect, and explore flexible training that fits your schedule and budget. Employer programs, FAFSA-based aid, American Job Centers, and Registered Apprenticeships may provide additional options.
Your current job can be more than a source of income while you plan your next move. It can provide stability while you develop the knowledge and experience needed to pursue a new direction.