Skilled Trades & Technical Careers
Build, repair, and power the world.
Skilled trade professionals keep construction, energy, manufacturing, and infrastructure running. These hands-on careers offer strong job growth, affordable training, and opportunities to work with cutting-edge tools and technology.
Why Choose a Skilled Trade Career?
Skilled trades are the foundation of every economy, providing reliable work, steady income, and long-term security.
Top reasons to pursue a trade career:
- High demand for licensed and certified technicians nationwide
- Short training timelines compared to traditional four-year degrees
- Opportunities for paid apprenticeships and on-the-job training
- Potential for self-employment or contracting independence
- Tangible results and daily hands-on problem solving
Whether you prefer working with tools, technology, or engineering systems, there’s a trade that fits your interests.
Featured Skilled Trade Careers
Explore some of the most in-demand trade and technical roles:
- Electrician – Install and maintain electrical systems in homes, businesses, and industrial facilities
- HVAC Technician – Repair and maintain heating, cooling, and ventilation systems
- Plumber – Install and service water, gas, and drainage systems
- Welder – Join and fabricate metal components for construction and manufacturing
- Construction Manager – Lead building projects from planning to completion
- Machinist – Operate precision machinery to manufacture parts and tools
- Maintenance Technician – Keep equipment and facilities operating safely and efficiently
- Sheet Metal Worker – Fabricate ducts, panels, and metal components
- Marine Mechanic – Service and repair boat engines and marine systems
- Motorcycle Mechanic – Diagnose and repair motorcycles, ATVs, and small engines
Each trade has its own path, from classroom training to paid apprenticeships and industry certification.
Education & Training Options
Trade education is designed to get you job-ready faster, with options ranging from short-term certificates to full degree programs.
Common learning paths:
- Certificate Programs (6–12 months): Focused technical skills and hands-on training
- Associate Degrees (2 years): Broader technical and management coursework
- Apprenticeships (3–5 years): Paid, supervised on-the-job learning
- Online & Hybrid Programs: Flexible study options for working adults
Many programs include industry-recognized credentials and pathways to state licensing exams.
Certification & Apprenticeships
Certifications and apprenticeships validate your skills and open doors to better pay and advancement.
Examples include:
- OSHA Safety Certification: Required on most job sites
- NCCER or NATE Certifications: National construction and HVAC credentials
- EPA Section 608: Mandatory for HVAC and refrigeration work
- State Licensing Exams: Required for electricians, plumbers, and other regulated trades
Apprenticeships let you earn while you learn, combining education with paid field experience.
Career Outlook
The skilled trades continue to see strong demand as infrastructure and renewable energy projects expand.
High-growth areas include:
- Construction and electrical work
- HVAC and green building technology
- Welding and precision manufacturing
- Mechanical maintenance and automation
Technicians with specialized certifications or digital skills (e.g., smart systems or CNC technology) have even greater opportunities for advancement.
Related Resources
Ready to get started in the trades?
Compare accredited programs, apprenticeships, and certifications near you to begin your path toward a stable, high-demand skilled trade career.
Compare Careers in This Category
| Career | Median Salary |
|---|---|
| Construction Manager Training & Certification | $106,980 |
| Electrician Training & Apprenticeship Guide | $62,350 |
| HVAC Technician Training & Certification | $59,810 |
| Machinist Training & Certification | $56,150 |
| Maintenance Technician Training & Certification | $48,620 |
| Marine Mechanic Training & Certification | $54,950 |
| Motorcycle Mechanic Training & Certification | $47,200 |
| Plumber Training & Apprenticeship Guide | $62,970 |
| Roofer Training & Career Guide | $50,970 |
| Sheet Metal Worker Training & Apprenticeship | $60,850 |
| Welder Training & Certification | $51,000 |
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), latest available year.
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