Further and continuing education: what you can build on the journeyman certificate
From courses and certificates to master, technician and higher education
It is a widespread misconception that vocational training is an end station. The truth is almost the opposite: a journeyman certificate opens many doors. Some roofers will specialize and become even sharper in their trade, others will manage or run a business, and still others will use the trade as a starting point for a completely different education. Here is the map of possibilities.
§Short courses and certificates
The easiest way to develop skills is through short courses — for example AMU courses, which often last a few days. They give you concrete skills and credentials employers seek, and you can take them continuously alongside work.
- 01Fire safety measures during hot work (hot work certificate)
- 02Scaffolding erection and work at height
- 03Assembly of roof membranes and modern roof systems
- 04Work with green roofs and solar cell preparation
- 05Work environment first aid and safety at the construction site
§The master's path — become your own boss
If you eventually want to start your own business or become a master, you can improve yourself in what lies beyond the craft itself: managing employees, giving quotes, managing finances and running a healthy business. It is an obvious path for you who love both the craft and the desire for responsibility as a leader. You can also go the path as a technical instructor or work supervisor in a larger company.
§Higher educations
If you took the education as EUX, or you supplement your subjects afterwards, you can study further at a higher education. For a craftsperson with a construction background, there are several obvious directions that build bridges between craftsmanship and management or design. Academy educations can be taken part-time while working when you have work experience.
| Direction | Level | What you work with afterwards |
|---|---|---|
| Building technician / building constructor | Business academy / professional bachelor. | Planning and project management of an event |
| Construction coordinator / work environment coordinator | Academy / further education | Coordination and safety on construction sites |
| Academy education in management | Academy (part-time) | Management of employees and projects |
Note that access requirements vary from education to education and some require specific upper secondary subjects. Always check the individual education's requirements and possibly use a study advisor.
§Specialization within the trade
You don't need to have an apprenticeship in place before you start the basic course. But you do need a training agreement with a company to be able to continue in the main course.
“Think of the journeyman's certificate as a foundation. What you build on top — in breadth or height — is up to you.”
§Hold on to curiosity
Regardless of which path you choose, the most important quality is curiosity. The trade evolves, materials change, and requirements shift. The roofers who thrive longest and go furthest are those who keep wanting to learn something new.