Skilled Trades

Explore Skilled Trades Jobs That Pay Well—No Degree Required

Skilled trades offer fast, affordable paths to reliable, well-paying careers. Whether you're just starting out or ready for a career change, SkillUp can help you discover trade jobs, get training, and find work—all for free.

How Do I Get a Career in a Skilled Trade?

Skilled trades are hands-on jobs in industries like construction, repair, energy, and protective services. These roles are often in high demand, offer stable income, and don’t require a college degree to get started.

Most careers start with short-term training, a certification, or an apprenticeship program. You can browse our career paths, explore training options, and use our free tools to stay on track.

Why doesn't SkillUp show X skilled trade?

At SkillUp, our team has done the research for you. Our site only displays recommended careers that:

  • Take less than 12 months of training to enter
  • Are affordable to learn (many are free)
  • Lead to jobs with livable wages and long-term opportunity
What are the popular skilled trades career pathways?

Popular skilled trades include:

  • Construction and repair (like electricians, HVAC techs, mechanics)
  • Utility and infrastructure (like solar installers or line workers)
  • Protective services (like firefighters or police officers)
  • Quality control and inspection roles

Frequently Asked Questions about Skilled Trades

What are skilled trades?

Skilled trades are hands-on careers that require specialized training but typically not a college degree. These jobs are found in industries like construction, manufacturing, utilities, and public safety. Common skilled trades include electricians, HVAC technicians, welders, and mechanics.

Do skilled trade jobs pay well?

Yes. Many skilled trades pay well above minimum wage, especially as you gain experience. It's common for trade professionals to earn $50,000–$70,000 per year, and some roles go much higher, depending on the location, industry, and certifications.

Do I need a college degree to work in a skilled trade?

No. That’s one of the biggest benefits of skilled trades. Most careers in this field require a high school diploma or GED, plus short-term training or an apprenticeship. You can start earning in months, not years. Start looking through low-cost, short term certifications for skilled trades on our website.

How long does it take to train for a skilled trade?

It depends on the job, but many training programs take less than 12 months. Some are as short as a few weeks. Apprenticeships may take longer, but they let you earn money while you learn. The programs recommended on SkillUp’s website are those that take less than 12 months.

Are skilled trades in demand?

Very much so. Skilled workers are retiring faster than they’re being replaced, creating strong demand for new talent across industries. This means more job openings, job security, and career growth potential.

What are the best skilled trades to get into right now?

Some of the top opportunities include:

  • Electricians
  • HVAC technicians
  • Welders
  • Plumbers
  • Industrial maintenance technicians

These roles offer good pay, job stability, and opportunities to grow.

Can women work in skilled trades?

Absolutely. While skilled trades have traditionally been male-dominated, more women are entering these fields every year. There are growing efforts to support gender diversity in trades through training, mentorship, and hiring initiatives.

Is an apprenticeship the same as going to trade school?

Not exactly. Trade school is classroom-based training, while apprenticeships combine on-the-job experience with some classroom learning. Apprenticeships typically pay you to learn and are a great way to enter the workforce. In fact, many of the apprenticeships listed on SkillUp are for trade skills. Take a look at all apprenticeships here, and another category we call Earn and Learn jobs where you start earning a wage immediately and are trained during the first few weeks.

Can I switch to a skilled trade career later in life?

Yes. Many people change careers in their 30s, 40s, or beyond and find success in the trades. With short training timelines and lots of job options, it’s a practical choice for career changers.

How do I start a skilled trade career with SkillUp?

We make it simple:

We’ve already vetted the best options, so you don’t have to start from scratch.

Find A Non-Degree Career That Fits You

In Partnership with Truist Foundation

Truist Foundation makes strategic investments in nonprofit organizations to help ensure the communities it serves have more opportunities for a better quality of life. Truist Foundation's grants and activities focus on building career pathways to economic mobility and strengthening small businesses.