What Is A Skilled Trade? Top-Paying Trades To Consider (2024)

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Choosing a career path can be daunting, especially when you factor in the cost of education. But you don’t always need to invest several years and thousands of dollars in a degree to secure a stable job. Skilled trades can make for stable, lucrative careers and often do not require a college degree.

Skilled trades take a practical approach to education and training, shortening the time needed to learn a subject and allowing you to start earning a wage right away. Read on to learn about education requirements and career outlooks for some of the highest-paid skilled trades on the job market.

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What Is a Skilled Trade?

A skilled trade is a job that requires a specialized skill set learned through either an apprenticeship or on-the-job training. Technical schools, often called vocational or trade schools, equip students to pursue skilled trades. Professionals in these occupations may need an academic certificate or an associate degree, and many need licensure or certification.

When many people think of skilled trades, they think of jobs requiring manual labor. Though some skilled trades fit this description, not all of them do.

Skilled trades can be broken down into five broad categories:

  • Skilled industrial and manufacturing trades, such as welders and machinists
  • Skilled construction trades, such as plumbers and carpenters
  • Skilled service trades, such as nursing assistants and hair stylists
  • Skilled transportation trades, such as train operators and automotive technicians
  • Skilled agricultural trades, such as farm managers and agricultural equipment operators

Skilled trades take a practical approach to education through hands-on learning and training. Not all skilled trades require a four-year degree, making well-paying careers attainable to aspiring professionals who don’t attend college.

Benefits of Skilled Trade Jobs

Skilled trades offer ample opportunities for career growth and high earning potential. Demand for skilled trade workers is steady, with the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projecting that overall employment growth for construction and extraction occupations will keep pace with the average projected growth rate of 3% for all U.S. jobs from 2022 to 2032.

Some specific skilled trades have even stronger growth projections. In fact, wind turbine technicians tie with nurse practitioners for the fastest-growing occupation in the United States. The BLS projects a whopping 45% job growth rate for wind turbine service technicians from 2022 to 2032. Also making the fastest-growing occupations list are solar voltaic installers, veterinary technicians and physical therapist assistants.

As technology develops in areas like solar and electric vehicles and other specialized sectors, opportunities to work on these fast-growing, cutting-edge technologies can be profitable and exciting.

Another benefit of pursuing a skilled trade is saving on education costs. Bachelor’s degrees can be expensive; the National Center for Education Statistics reports that annual tuition and fees at public, four-year schools averaged about $9,700 in the 2021–22 academic year, totaling $38,800 for a full degree. Public two-year schools—which often house vocational associate degree and certificate programs—average around $4,000 per year, and degrees often take less than two years to complete.

Education for Skilled Trades

The education requirements for skilled trades vary depending on the career path. Some employers require professional certificates or apprenticeships. Most ask for a high school diploma or GED certificate; in some cases, taking the SAT or ACT can help you stand out against the competition.

Below we explore common educational paths for skilled trades.

Trade Schools

What are trade schools? Trade schools are a great alternative to the typical four-year college experience. Trade programs can take up to two years to complete, giving students hands-on experience with a skilled trade. Most trade school programs give certificates or associate degrees upon completion.

Attending trade school can help you determine your career path. Trade and vocational schools often offer a variety of subject areas, but some specialize in specific trades. You can apply to top online trade schools, or attend an in-person or hybrid program.

Apprenticeships

What is an apprenticeship? Not all trades require a vocational degree. Many employers provide training programs where you work closely with seasoned professionals, gaining hands-on experience while earning an income. This type of training is known as an apprenticeship.

Apprenticeships can be formal and sponsored through unions and agencies or employers. Typical apprenticeships last anywhere from one to four years, depending on the trade and program. Most apprenticeship programs are registered through the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL). After completing an apprenticeship program, you may earn a certificate of completion to verify your competency in the trade. There are a variety of ways to get an apprenticeship.

Highest-Paying Skilled Trade Jobs

The following jobs represent some of the most lucrative skilled-trade careers. We sourced the below salary data from the BLS.

Boilermakers

Median Annual Salary: $71,140
Projected Job Growth (2021-2031): -4%
Job Description: Boilermakers assemble and maintain boilers and other large vessels that hold gasses and liquids. Boilermakers work in physically demanding environments and may travel to worksites for long periods. A high school diploma or the equivalent is required to become a boilermaker. Boilermakers typically learn their trade through apprenticeships.

Electricians

Median Annual Salary: $61,590
Projected Job Growth (2022–32):
+6%
Job Description:
Electricians install and maintain electrical power systems in homes and businesses, inspect transformers and use testing devices to diagnose electrical problems. To become an electrician, you need a high school diploma or the equivalent. Training to become an electrician involves either an apprenticeship or technical school. Depending on the state, electricians usually need a license to work.

Elevator and Escalator Installers and Repairers

Median Annual Salary: $102,420
Projected Job Growth (2021-2031): +1%
Job Description: Elevator and escalator installers repair and maintain elevators and other moving walkways and lifts. Elevator repairers are competent in assembling elevator cars and interpreting blueprints to evaluate the layout and components needed for installation. Most elevator repairers work on call to make emergency repairs.

A high school diploma or the equivalent is required to become an elevator repairer. These professionals typically complete apprenticeships to learn their trade.

Industrial Machinery Mechanics

Median Annual Salary: $61,420
Projected Job Growth (2021-2031): +15%
Job Description: Industrial machinery mechanics maintain and repair factory equipment like conveying systems and production machinery. They interpret manuals and disassemble machinery to diagnose problems. Machinery mechanics typically work full time and may be asked to work on call on weekends.

Industrial machinery mechanics need a high school diploma. Once hired, they need at least a year of training. Some employers ask for a two-year associate degree in industrial maintenance.

Millwrights

Median Annual Salary: $62,980
Projected Job Growth (2022–32):
+3%
Job Description:
Millwrights work on dismantling or reassembling machinery to move it into factories or power plants. They also calibrate and adjust equipment to ensure machinery meets specifications. Millwrights need a high school diploma and typically complete three- to four-year apprenticeships.

Plumbers, Pipefitters and Steamfitters

Median Annual Salary: $61,550
Projected Job Growth (2022–32):
+2%
Job Description:
Plumbers, pipefitters and steamfitters repair fixtures and systems that carry fluids or gasses. They read blueprints to determine the materials needed for a job and estimate customer costs. Aside from installation, pipefitters, plumbers and steamfitters run tests to ensure pipes are air- and watertight. A high school diploma is required to become a pipefitter or plumber. Technical school and apprenticeships are also options.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Skilled Trades

What is an example of a skilled trade?

Welders are a common example of a skilled trade. Welders work with equipment like welding torches to manipulate metal and fuse pieces to either repair or build, depending on the project. Welders can also apply their skills to other aspects of metalwork. Other examples of skilled trade professionals include electricians, plumbers, hair stylists and automotive technicians.

What is the highest-paying skilled trade?

According to the BLS, the highest-paid skilled trade professionals include construction managers and elevator and escalator installers. These professionals earn median salaries of $104,900 and $102,420 per year, respectively. Allied healthcare professionals in skilled occupations that don’t require a four-year degree may also enjoy strong earning potential. For example, the BLS reports a median annual wage of $92,500 for nuclear medicine technologists.

What skills are required for skilled trades?

Each skilled trade has its own set of specific technical competencies which professionals must master. Skilled tradespeople typically learn these skills through trade school, apprenticeships and on-the-job training. However, skills that can benefit workers across all skilled occupations include problem solving, attention to detail and communication. Physical stamina is also a desired qualification for many trades roles.

What Is A Skilled Trade? Top-Paying Trades To Consider (2024)

FAQs

What skilled trade makes the most money? ›

Highest Paying Trades
  • Highest Paying Trades. ...
  • Construction Management – Median salary $98,890 per year. ...
  • Elevator Installers and Repairers – Average journeyman's salary is $97,900 per year. ...
  • Aircraft Mechanics – Average salary $71,115 per year. ...
  • Boilermakers – Range from $58,500 to $84,000 per year.
Apr 29, 2024

What trade is in the highest demand? ›

There are quite a few skilled trades that are set to remain in high demand over the next 10 years in these outlooks, including:
  • Electricians.
  • Welders.
  • Plumbers.
  • Home inspectors.
  • Aircraft mechanics.
  • HVAC technicians.
  • Diesel technicians.
  • Construction managers.

What is the hardest skilled trade to learn? ›

What is the hardest trade to learn? Electrical and HVAC trades require intensive technical training, which can be difficult to learn. Electrician schools teach students how to install, maintain, and repair electrical systems.

Do trades pay 6 figures? ›

How much do 6 figure trade jobs pay per year in california? $48,961 is the 25th percentile. Salaries below this are outliers. $97,922 is the 75th percentile.

What trades have the highest income? ›

What is the highest-paying skilled trade? According to the BLS, the highest-paid skilled trade professionals include construction managers and elevator and escalator installers. These professionals earn median salaries of $104,900 and $102,420 per year, respectively.

What is the happiest trade to work in? ›

Here are a few trade jobs with reported high levels of happiness among workers:
  1. Electrician: Electricians enjoy a stable work environment, good pay, and opportunities for advancement. ...
  2. Plumber: Like electricians, plumbers tend to have stable job availability and good pay.
Jan 21, 2024

What is the best trade to go into right now? ›

9 Highest Paying Trade Jobs
  • #1. Construction Manager. There are several methods of getting your first job as a construction manager. ...
  • #2. Elevator Mechanic. ...
  • #3. Dental Hygienist. ...
  • #4. Ultrasonographer. ...
  • #5. Boilermaker. ...
  • #6. Electrician. ...
  • #7. Plumber. ...
  • #8. HVAC Technician.
Feb 5, 2024

What kind of trading makes the most money? ›

The defining feature of day trading is that traders do not hold positions overnight; instead, they seek to profit from short-term price movements occurring during the trading session.It can be considered one of the most profitable trading methods available to investors.

What trade is hardest on your body? ›

Consumers and contractors agreed roofing and demolition are the most physically demanding trades. And while contractors voted carpentry as the third-most physically demanding trade, it barely cracked the top ten for consumers.

Which trade is easiest on your body? ›

It seems that plumbers and electricians have the least physically demanding position, which the trade school degrees provide.

What's the quickest trade to learn? ›

What is the shortest trade school? Medical assistant programs generally take the least amount of time to complete. Students can finish their training in as little as eight weeks.

How can I make $100,000 a year without a degree? ›

9 jobs that pay $100K per year without a degree
  1. Information systems manager. National average salary: $96,173 per year Primary duties: An information systems manager oversees and implements information technology (IT) within a company. ...
  2. Fire chief. ...
  3. Product manager. ...
  4. Senior engagement manager. ...
  5. Radiation therapist.
Apr 18, 2024

What's the best trade for a woman? ›

4 Good Trade Jobs for Women
  1. Construction Manager ($98,890) One of the trades that pay well for a woman is construction management, especially if you have experience in the industry. ...
  2. Manufacturing Supervisor ($67,330) ...
  3. Electricians ($60,040) ...
  4. Plumber ($59,880)

What trade earns the most money? ›

Types of highest-paying trade jobs
  1. IT support specialist. ...
  2. Plumber. ...
  3. Electrician. ...
  4. Home inspector. ...
  5. Respiratory therapist. ...
  6. Practice nurse. ...
  7. Aircraft maintenance engineer. ...
  8. Building inspector.
Apr 18, 2024

What is the best trade for making money? ›

Some of the highest-paying trade jobs include construction managers, elevator mechanics, and dental hygienists. Individuals can get a lot of trade jobs with a high school degree or GED and gain experience on the job and through apprenticeships.

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