In a country like India, where a large number of youth are looking for jobs after completing their studies, technical and vocational education becomes very important. Understanding this need, the Government of India started ITI (Industrial Training Institute).
The purpose of ITI is to provide vocational training to students so that they are immediately ready for a good job after studies. These institutes work under the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship and Directorate General of Employment and Training (DGET) of the Government of India.
Students from 8th to 12th pass can take admission in ITI and after taking one or two years of training from there, they can become experts in a particular trade such as electrician, fitter, plumber etc.
After completing these courses, students are given National Trade Certificate (NTC), which is recognized not only in India but also abroad.
Types of ITI Courses: What Are the Options?
Engineering Courses
These courses are technical and focus on machines, science, mathematics, drawing, and electrical or mechanical subjects. Popular trades include:
- Electrician
- Fitter
- Mechanic
- Diesel Mechanic
- Wireman
Non-Engineering Courses
These courses provide soft skills, language, and industry-specific training instead of technical knowledge. Common non-engineering trades include:
- Stenography
- Computer Operator
- Dress Making
- Hospitality
The duration of these courses can range from 6 months to 2 years. Some private institutes offer direct admission, while some prestigious government institutes have entrance exams.
Top Career Options After ITI
People often believe that there are fewer career options after doing ITI, but this is completely wrong. In today’s time, companies need such youth who can get straight to work, that is, who are skilled.
After doing ITI, students have two main paths:
- Higher Studies
- Direct Job
Higher Studies
Diploma Course
If you have done an engineering trade in ITI, then you can do a Polytechnic Diploma. This course is of 2–3 years and it includes practical training along with theory. It gives a deeper understanding of the subject.
Advanced Training Institute (ATI)
ATI institute has some short term specialized courses, through which you can become an expert in your particular trade. Examples include HVAC, CNC operation, automation etc.
AITT Exam (All India Trade Test)
This is a national level exam. On passing, you get a certificate from National Council of Vocational Training (NCVT), which is very helpful in applying for government and international jobs.
Employment Opportunities After ITI
Employment in Government Sector
ITI pass students can get jobs in Public Sector Units (PSUs) such as:
- Railways
- PWD
- BSNL
- BHEL
- IOCL
- Electricity Department
Apart from this, they can also join defense services like:
- Indian Army
- Navy
- Air Force
- CRPF
- BSF
Employment in Private Sector
Many private companies recruit ITI students for trade-specific positions. There is a great demand in industries like:
- Manufacturing
- Textile
- Automobile
- Electronics
- HVAC
- Construction
Popular examples include:
- Electricity companies hiring electricians
- Metal industry hiring welders
- Service centers hiring AC/fridge mechanics
- Machine industry hiring fitters
Employment Abroad
There is a huge demand for ITI pass youth in many countries like:
- Gulf countries
- Singapore
- Malaysia
- Europe
- Canada
Trades in high demand internationally include:
- Electrician
- Fitter
- Welder
- Plumber
- HVAC Technician
Self-Employment
If you do not want to do a job, then you can start your own small business or service center. Some ideas include:
- Opening an electrician shop
- Welding workshop
- AC/fridge repair service
- Carpentry work
Nowadays, while many prefer white-collar jobs, there is a huge shortage of blue-collar professionals. This gives ITI students a big advantage in starting their own business and earning well.
Some Major Job Profiles After ITI
| Trade | Potential Career Options |
|---|---|
| MEP Engineer | HVAC Engineer, Project Manager, Fire Safety Expert |
| Electrician | Wireman, Maintenance Technician |
| Automobile Mechanic | Motor Vehicle Inspector, Auto Technician |
| Plumber | Pipefitter, Maintenance Plumber |
| Welder | Fabricator, Welding Inspector |
| AC/Fridge Mechanic | HVAC Technician, Cooling System Mechanic |
| Fitter | Machine Operator, Assembly Technician |
| Instrument Technician | Control System Technician |
| Draftsman (Civil/Mechanical) | CAD Technician, Design Engineer |
| Electronics Mechanic | Electronic Assembler, Repair Technician |
| IT & ESM | Network Technician, System Admin |
| Carpenter | Furniture Maker, Woodwork Expert |
| Machinist (Grinder) | CNC Operator, Tool Maker |
Average Salary of ITI Holders (India)
| Job | Average Annual Salary (in ₹) |
|---|---|
| Electrician | ₹1.5 lakh – ₹3 lakh |
| Mechanic (Motor Vehicle) | ₹1.8 lakh – ₹3.5 lakh |
| Plumber | ₹1.2 lakh – ₹2.5 lakh |
| Welder | ₹1.5 lakh – ₹3 lakh |
| HVAC Mechanic | ₹2 lakh – ₹4 lakh |
| Fitter | ₹1.5 lakh – ₹3 lakh |
| Instrument Mechanic | ₹1.8 lakh – ₹3.5 lakh |
| Draftsman | ₹2 lakh – ₹4 lakh |
| Electronic Mechanic | ₹1.8 lakh – ₹3.5 lakh |
| IT & ESM Technician | ₹2 lakh – ₹4 lakh |
| Carpenter | ₹1.2 lakh – ₹2.5 lakh |
| Machinist | ₹1.5 lakh – ₹3 lakh |
| MEP Engineer | ₹2.5 lakh – ₹5 lakh |
Note that these are average figures and may vary depending on experience, location, and company.
Conclusion
The ITI course is a great opportunity for those who want to get employment by learning skills quickly. In today’s time, when the demand for skills is increasing, institutes like ITI are making the youth self-reliant by making them skilled.
It is not necessary that only students who get degrees are successful. With the right training, dedication and hard work, ITI students can also make a bright future by getting good packages, foreign jobs, and starting their own business.
So if you also want a job quickly or want to start your own business, then ITI is the right option for you.
