If you are taking your first steps into a new career, you might want to consider an unlikely field of work – the skilled trades.
Instead of completing a four-year degree or college course, you can take advantage of smaller course loads and paid training in order to start a career that is integral to our daily lives.
Plus, with hands-on learning, you can benefit from apprenticeship programs that will allow you to learn practical skills while being paid at the same time.
Despite losses in previous years, these jobs are always in demand so your job prospects are endless! This means you can jump into a job that pays well and quickly eliminate your college debt.
In 2021, there were many top skilled trades careers to choose from – 2022 is looking even better with all sorts of major projects launching across the US, many that will create 100’s of high paying jobs.
Here are 5 you should definitely consider:
1. Welder
Welding jobs are booming and allow you to work in almost any field and industry that uses metal products.
Welders operate the machines and tools that manufacture and repair metal equipment, tools, and structures in industries such as construction, automotive, and manufacturing.
Other job responsibilities include planning, measuring, and testing welding surfaces.
Average Salary: $52,000/year
2. Electrician
Electricians are skilled trade workers who install and maintain power sources throughout homes, commercial properties, and major facilities.
They prepare, assemble, and install electrical wiring and are also responsible for testing, troubleshooting, and repairing.
Electricians can be self-employed but are often employed by electrical contractors or building maintenance departments.
Average Salary: $66,560/year
3. Plumber
Plumbers install, maintain, and repair piping of all kinds, whether it be in residential homes, commercial buildings, or even in the oilfields. They also inspect and test pipes and determine what types of equipment are needed to fix an issue.
While earning a plumbing license, plumbers work as apprentices through plumbing companies. Consequently, they get paid to go to school.
Average Salary: $62,400/year
4. Carpenter
In the construction industry, carpenters complete a wide range of tasks. This can involve installing drywall in residential homes, insulating commercial properties, and even helping in the construction of bridges and tall buildings.
This skilled trade involves the use of different tools used to cut and shape materials such as wood, fiberglass, and plastic.
Carpenters fasten these materials together using nails, screws, adhesives, and staples. They are also responsible for inspecting their work and carrying out repairs.
Average Salary: $54,080/year
5. HVAC Technician
HVAC technicians deal with heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems inside both homes and commercial properties.
Their tasks involve installing, cleaning, and maintaining these systems and the need for these technicians is at an all-time high.
Average Salary: $67,160/year
Getting Started With a Skilled Trade Career
Once you have chosen a career path, it’s time to get started!
There are a few ways you can get into a skilled trade with some companies hiring entry-level workers without education and training them on the job.
However, some companies do look for certification, degrees, and registered apprenticeships before they will hire you.
If you’re ready to start in the skilled trades, here are some steps you should follow:
- Finish high school or obtain your GED
- Choose a trade
- Enroll in school
- Get an apprenticeship
- Get your license
- Become a journeyman
This process won’t happen overnight but it’s clearly a straightforward way to get involved in the career of your dreams.
