If you love cannabis and are thinking of turning that passion into a career, you can get into cannabis extraction. As more people continue buying cannabis products, it presents plenty of job opportunities for people who have always wanted to work in this field. Extraction is one of the most crucial steps as it allows for the monetization of this plant. Through it, you get your edibles, tinctures, vapes, capsules, etc. The article below covers a step-by-step guide on what you need to know about cannabis extraction.
Get a Degree or Certification
When cannabis was not that popular, even with a high school diploma, you could become an extraction technician. But today, a high school diploma does not make you an appealing candidate. Employers are looking for candidates who have some educational background in lab work. A degree in chemistry, biochemistry, ecology, laboratory technology, etc., is a great place to start. But if you really want to attract the right employers, consider programs like those offered at Trichome Institute Extraction Course. Such courses cover everything you need to know about cannabis extraction, giving your career a significant advantage.
Earn Some Hands-On Experience
Whether after or during your education course, scout for opportunities to work in a lab. Even if the position is not exactly in the cannabis industry, this is a great learning opportunity. You will familiarize yourself with lab equipment, data systems, and procedures. Look for opportunities where you can work with different types of substances. This allows you to learn about hazardous materials, which you will come across as a cannabis extraction technician.
Get The Right Licenses and Pass Background Checks
For you to be allowed to operate as an extraction technician, you need a license. There are various types of cannabis licenses, depending on the activity you plan on doing. As a technician, you will need a license that shows you are certified to do lab tests. This will involve some paperwork and possibly a background check.
A background check is a required process even before a company hires you. At the end of the day, cannabis is a drug that can be used for recreational or medicinal purposes. And if someone has a criminal past, there is a possibility of not adhering to the stated rules for extraction. The company you want to work with has to ensure that you can be trusted to follow company policies and not put their reputation at risk.
Network With Like-Minded People in the Industry
Like any other career, networking is very important. You need to create connections with other people in the same field. Cannabis is still a growing industry, and there are places where it is illegal. If you live in such a state, networking allows you to see whether you can move to another location to do the job. And even if you currently live in a state where it is legal, knowing people in the field will open doors for better career opportunities. Take advantage of online groups that discuss such matters, and make connections with a few people.
Stay Updated on New Techniques
The cannabis industry continues to change every day. And if you want to remain relevant, you will stay updated on the latest extraction techniques. Learning about such changes ensures you keep adding value to your employer. You can also consider pursuing new degrees or higher education to increase your options in this industry.
As of 2022, more than 428,000 people are legally working in the cannabis industry. This field is growing and booming. And if you want your piece of cake by being an extraction technician, now you know how to go about it.