Are you interested in a skilled trades career, but not sure which one to pursue? We understand it can be overwhelming with the numerous great career options that are now available so, to help get you started, we’ve compiled a list of 5 of the current skilled trades careers including information from bls.gov on average compensation.
Perhaps after reading through these, you’ll discover one that is just right for you!
1. Advanced Tractor Trailer Driver
With ground tractor trailer transport being so important, truck driving is a very large field with a high demand. Most tractor-trailer drivers are long-haul drivers and operate trucks with a gross vehicle weight (GVW) capacity, which is the combined weight of the vehicle, passengers, and cargo, that exceeds 26,000 pounds. These drivers make deliveries across state lines, between cities, and other distances beyond local delivery. Professional drivers must have a commercial driver’s license (CDL).
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the expected job growth is projected to be 5% over the next several years. As the economy grows and as older drivers retire this means the trend is expected to be very positive for those looking to enter this career field. For detailed information on average salaries for CDL drivers visit the bls.gov site here.
2. HVAC & Refrigeration Technician
Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration (HVACR) Technicians install, maintain, and repair the systems that heat and cool various types of buildings. They specialize in seeing that health and comfort standards are reached and maintained in these buildings, which include homes, schools, hospitals, offices, and factories.
The field is rapidly growing and the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 14% job growth by 2024. With HVAC systems continually becoming more complex, employers prefer to hire candidates with requisite training and skills. For detailed information on average salaries for HVAC technicians visit the bls.gov site here.
3. Welder
Welders, often with heat, use tools to permanently join or cut metal parts. They also repair and fill holes, seams, and indentations in metal. Welders work in many various settings, both indoors and outdoors, and in virtually every type of climate - and sometimes in confined areas.
Welding is a very rewarding and challenging career that is extremely important for industry and construction. Job growth is expected to increase by 14% through 2024. For detailed information on average salaries for welders visit the bls.gov site here.
4. Electrician
Electricians install electrical wiring and maintain repair wiring and other electrical components. This can include power needs for communication, lighting, and various control systems in homes, businesses, churches, schools, factories and other types of buildings. Electricians almost always work fulltime in a variety of settings and buildings, working on both indoor and outdoor projects.
As buildings require more and more wiring and their components, the demand for qualified electricians continues to increase. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that the field is going to grow 14% through 2024. For detailed information on average salaries for electricians visit the BLS.gov site here.
5. Carpenter
Carpenters build or repair wooden structures that are used in virtually every area of life. They may also install cabinets, siding, and drywall. Since carpenters work in many areas and different types of construction, they work in all types of conditions, including indoors, outdoors, and all climates.
Carpentry is expected to grow 6% over the next several years, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. For detailed information on average salaries for carpenters visit the bls.gov site here.