Career Options for Tactile Learners
Tactile learners prefer to interact with the world through touch. They are more likely to prefer hands-on career opportunities and less likely to be drawn to professions that involve observation instead of direct physical involvement with tasks.
| Job Title | Median Salary (2020)* | Job Outlook (2019-2029)* |
|---|---|---|
| Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics | $44,050 | -4% |
| Physical Education or Art Teachers | $62,870 (for High School Teachers) | 4% (for High School Teachers) |
| Carpenters | $49,520 | 0% |
| Civil Engineering Technicians | $54,080 | 3% |
| Craft and Fine Artists | $49,120 | 0% |
| Physical Therapists | $91,010 | 18% |
Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Career Information for Tactile Learners
Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics
Automotive service technicians and mechanics prepare for their career with postsecondary training and certification. This is a good option for tactile learners because these professionals are directly involved with running tests and performing inspections in order to identify issues. They also repair vehicles, which involves using their hands to replace or adjust vehicle parts.
Physical Education or Art Teachers
Physical education and art teachers are educational professionals who can take advantage of their preference for tactile input. Their work involves teaching and assessing students in sports and physical health or in art. This can include demonstrating sports skills, such as dribbling a basketball, or art skills, such as modeling clay. Like all teachers, they must have a bachelor's degree and teaching license to work in public schools.
Carpenters
Carpenters typically prepare for their career by completing an apprenticeship and learn through hands-on training from professionals in their industry. This is a trade that tactile learns may be drawn to because it involves physically working with wood and using it to build things. Carpenters may frame houses or buildings and may build things like furniture.
Civil Engineering Technicians
Becoming a civil engineering technician is an option for tactile learners who are interested in engineering and architecture. These professionals use computer programs and drafting skills to work on project design plans and assess worksites, which involves visiting building locations, checking the soil to determine if it's suitable for the proposed project and performing other tests as needed. They are usually expected to have an associate's degree in civil engineering technology, although some enter the field with a diploma or certificate.
Craft and Fine Artists
Craft and fine artists do not necessarily have to complete postsecondary training, but a degree in fine arts can be an asset for those preparing for these careers. Fine artists, such as sculptors, often create art for display. Craft artists, like jewelry designers, make objects that are meant to be functional. Since tactile learners like to touch things and interact with them physically, those with artistic skills may be interested in pursuing careers producing art or goods.
Physical Therapists
Physical therapists are medical professionals who have a doctoral or professional degree in their field and a license, and they are qualified to treat and diagnose patients. They work with individuals who have difficulty moving, which may be caused by pain or be the effects of an injury or illness, such as a stroke. Physical therapists assist patients as they move and teach them how to do exercises that can help them improve their ability to function without pain. Tactile learners may find this a good medical career option because of the opportunities to directly treat and assist their patients.
