Trade School vs. College: 15 In-Demand Jobs That Pay Well and Require Less Schooling
In today’s fast-changing job market, trade careers are making a powerful comeback, proving to be a wise choice for those seeking high-paying and stable work without the need for a four-year college degree. Opting for trade school over traditional college offers benefits like shorter training periods, lower educational costs, and quicker entry into the workforce. Skilled trade jobs, from electricians and plumbers to HVAC technicians and welders, are not only in high demand but also offer competitive salaries and robust job security.
This gallery explores 15 top trade careers, detailing their pay scales, training requirements, and market demand, and sheds light on why these professions are experiencing a resurgence.
Elevator Installers and Repairers
Elevator installers and repairers top the list with an impressive median annual wage of $97,860. This specialized field requires a 4-year apprenticeship program, combining on-the-job training with technical instruction. With a projected job growth of 3% from 2022 to 2032, this career offers stability and high earning potential.
Electrical Power-Line Installers and Repairers
These essential workers earn a median annual wage of $79,060. Training involves a 3-year apprenticeship program, combining classroom instruction with hands-on experience. The job outlook is positive, with a projected growth rate of 4% from 2022 to 2032.
Wind Turbine Technicians
Wind turbine technicians earn a median annual wage of $61,770. This rapidly growing field typically requires a postsecondary non-degree award and on-the-job training. The job outlook is exceptionally bright, with a projected growth rate of 60% from 2023 to 2033, much faster than the average for all occupations.
Industrial Machinery Mechanics
Industrial machinery mechanics earn a median annual wage of $61,170. Most positions require a high school diploma and at least a year of on-the-job training. The job outlook is strong, with a projected growth rate of 15% from 2023 to 2033, much faster than the average for all occupations.
Electricians
Electricians earn a median annual wage of $61,590. Training typically requires a 4-year apprenticeship program, combining on-the-job training with technical instruction. The job outlook is positive, with a projected growth rate of 6% from 2022 to 2032, faster than the average for all occupations.
Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters
Plumbing professionals earn a median annual wage of $61,550. Training typically involves a 4-5 year apprenticeship program. The job outlook is steady, with a projected growth rate of 2% from 2022 to 2032.
HVAC Technicians
HVAC technicians earn a median annual wage of $57,300. Training typically involves a 2-year associate degree or a 3-5 year apprenticeship program. The job outlook is strong, with a projected growth rate of 5% from 2022 to 2032.
Solar Photovoltaic Installers
Solar installers earn a median annual wage of $48,800. Most positions require a high school diploma and moderate-term on-the-job training. The job outlook is exceptionally bright, with a projected growth rate of 48% from 2023 to 2033, much faster than the average for all occupations.
Aircraft Mechanics and Technicians
Aircraft mechanics earn a median annual wage of $82,470. Training typically involves completing an FAA-approved aviation maintenance technician school program. The job outlook is stable, with opportunities varying by region and industry demand.
Respiratory Therapists
Respiratory therapists earn a median annual salary of $104,437. This career typically requires an associate’s degree and state licensure. The job outlook is positive, with growing demand in healthcare settings.
Boilermakers
Boilermakers are among the top trades in demand. While specific salary data wasn’t provided, these skilled workers typically earn competitive wages. Training usually involves a 4-year apprenticeship program, combining on-the-job training with technical instruction.
Cable Technicians
Cable technicians earn a median annual salary of $70,714. Training requirements typically include a high school diploma and on-the-job training. However, it’s important to note that the job outlook for cable technicians is projected to decline 8% from 2018 to 2028.
Industrial Mechanics
Industrial mechanics earn a median annual salary of $69,637. Most positions require a high school diploma and on-the-job training or an apprenticeship. The job outlook is positive, with growing demand in manufacturing and industrial settings.
Conclusion
The trades offer diverse career paths with competitive salaries and shorter training periods compared to traditional four-year degrees. With steady to strong job growth projected across many of these professions, skilled trades workers are poised to play a crucial role in the future workforce. As the demand for these essential services continues, pursuing a career in the trades could be a smart and rewarding choice for many job seekers.
‘Women in welding’: This Indiana high school teacher is on a mission to inspire girls to take her shop class
One of Kim Rosenbaum’s former welding students called, asking to speak to her class. He was a pipefitter now, and he wanted to report back that everything she had taught him about what it was like to work a job had been spot on.
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