Trade careers are becoming increasingly popular as an alternative to a traditional college education as industries across the globe face labor shortages, infrastructure demands, and changing workforce needs. From electricians to welders, many skilled trades are experiencing rapid growth and offer promising opportunities for those ready to enter these fields.
Last updated: October 2025
When exploring what trades are in high demand, we can look at information from the Bureau of Labor Statistics and industry trends to identify 11 possible options. There are certainly more options than just these, and the BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook is a great resource for researching different skilled trade jobs.
As industries shift and modernize, there is an urgent need for workers who can handle specialized roles that keep infrastructure and essential services running smoothly. Let’s consider some of the reasons why trade jobs are in demand.
Many skilled workers who have spent decades working in the trades are now retiring and leaving behind positions that need to be filled by younger generations.
As just one example, in 2023, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) found that the median age of workers in construction and maintenance roles was 41, and many workers are retiring without enough replacements in the pipeline.
Since industries need fresh talent to maintain the labor force, those looking to enter skilled trade jobs have a wide range of opportunities before them.
Many regions are undergoing large-scale projects, from highway expansions to the construction of new public facilities. These initiatives require electricians, plumbers, welders, and other skilled workers to complete projects efficiently and safely.
As industries change, new technologies and specialized skills are needed to operate and maintain complex systems. Many trade careers, such as HVACR technicians, electricians, and welders, demand expertise in emerging technologies, like solar and wind power.
This demand for specialized knowledge further drives the value of trade careers and helps create a stable employment outlook for those with the necessary skills.
Compared to the traditional four-year college degree path, trade careers offer a more efficient way to enter the workforce. For many trades, training can take between six months and two years.
Additionally, trade education programs are often less expensive than a college education, so aspiring tradespeople can avoid student loan debt and start earning sooner.
Labor shortages affect numerous industries, and the skilled trades are no exception. The COVID-19 pandemic, for example, disrupted sectors like construction and manufacturing and made it harder to find qualified workers. Employers often respond with competitive wages and benefits to attract talent, which can be appealing to those seeking higher-paying careers.
Trade careers come with several benefits that make them attractive options for people who prefer hands-on work and job stability.
The demand for skilled tradespeople is consistent across many industries. Essential services like plumbing, electrical work, and HVACR maintenance are always needed, so these professions are less vulnerable to economic downturns. Trade careers often provide long-term job security because the skills learned in these fields are difficult to replace through automation or outsourcing.
Many trade careers offer wages that rival those of jobs requiring college degrees. Skilled tradespeople often enjoy high earning potential, especially as they gain experience and take on more specialized roles.
Trade careers focus heavily on skill-building. Workers can master practical, hands-on abilities that can be applied immediately in the workforce and often lead to multiple employment opportunities.
Compared to traditional college degrees, trade careers typically require less time to enter the workforce. Many training programs take less than two years, and some trades, like HVACR and welding, even offer apprenticeship programs where students can earn while they learn.
Many trade careers come with opportunities for advancement. With experience, tradespeople can move into supervisory roles or start their own businesses and potentially increase their income even further.
Should you go into a trade career? That depends! If your work style involves solving problems and working with your hands, then a trade career might be a great fit. Success in a trade career often depends on gaining the right skills and experience, but with a little preparation and research, you can thrive in a trade profession.
Your first step, after you decide what career to pursue, is to research training opportunities for your chosen field. You can look into vocational schools (also called trade schools) and community colleges near you that offer training for your new industry, but online programs are becoming increasingly popular. SkillUp offers resources to help you understand what training might look like for different skilled trade careers.
Apprenticeships provide valuable on-the-job training so you can earn money as you learn your trade. Many trades, such as electricians and plumbers, offer apprenticeship programs that are essential for skill development.
Many trades require certifications and even state licensure. Research the necessary certifications for your field, learn what is required to gain a professional license in your state, and consider pursuing advanced credentials to improve your job prospects.
Building a network of contacts in your trade can help you find job opportunities and mentors. To expand your network, attend trade fairs, workshops, and industry events. Your local Chamber of Commerce may offer networking opportunities as well.
Even after you enter a trade, keeping up with your education can help you stay current with industry trends and technologies. For some trades, continuing education is even mandatory for state licensure. Even if it’s not required, regularly updating your skills will keep you competitive in the job market by showing you are a lifelong learner who is eager to master your field.
Some of the best trade careers right now include electricians, HVAC technicians, plumbers, welders, and automotive service technicians. These roles are in high demand across the country, offer strong starting pay, and provide opportunities to grow your skills without a four-year degree.
Most trade programs take anywhere from six months to two years to complete. Many are offered online or through local training partners, so you can learn while working or managing other responsibilities.
Yes! Many skilled trades pay above the national median salary, especially as demand grows. For example, electricians and HVAC technicians often earn $55,000–$70,000+ annually, with experienced tradespeople making even more through overtime or self-employment.
Absolutely. You can start learning trade skills online through short-term certificate programs or hybrid courses that mix online instruction with hands-on labs. Platforms like SkillUp make it easy to find free or low-cost training options to fit your goals.
If you want to start earning quickly, consider HVAC, welding, or medical equipment repair. These careers often require less than a year of training, and employers are actively hiring for entry-level positions.
SkillUp connects you to affordable training programs, quality job listings, and career coaching, all for free. You can explore trade careers that don’t require a degree, compare training timelines, and start building the skills that employers are looking for.
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