As a college and career consultant who spent 10 years working in the trade school business, I recognize that not every student is meant to attend a four-year traditional university. In fact, there are many reasons that some students are better fit for trade school or the military. My own daughter, who graduated high school in 2022 will graduate with a Cosmetology license in October and has some exciting job prospects lined up. Trades are becoming increasingly in demand and offer a valuable return on investment. Many programs can be completed in a year or less. Often students have chosen the trade route and used their early career as a stepping stone to continue on toward a higher degree.
Different trades have different levels of pay depending on factors such as location, experience, and level of expertise. It's also worth noting that some trades require licensure or certification, so students should research the requirements in their state before pursuing a specific trade. In addition, some trades may require physical strength or stamina, so it's important to carefully consider the job requirements before committing to a particular trade.
Overall, trade schools offer a viable path for students who are interested in pursuing a career in a high-demand field and can be an excellent way to launch a successful career.
Here are 20 trades that you might consider with information about average pay and growth potential:
Elevator Installer and Repairer: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for elevator installers and repairers was $88,540 in May 2020.
Medical Assistant: Medical assistant training programs typically take less than a year to complete, and graduates can work in a variety of healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, and physician's offices. The median annual wage for medical assistants was $36,580 in May 2020, and employment in this field is projected to grow 19% from 2019 to 2029.
Electrical Power-line Installer and Repairer: The median annual wage for electrical power-line installers and repairers was $77,070 in May 2020.
Dental Assistant: Dental assistant training programs can be completed in less than a year, and graduates can work in dental offices, clinics, and other healthcare settings. The median annual wage for dental assistants was $41,180 in May 2020, and employment in this field is projected to grow 10% from 2019 to 2029.
Plumbers, Pipe Fitters, and steamfitters: The median annual wage for these tradespeople was $56,330 in May 2020, and employment is projected to grow 8% from 2019 to 2029, which is much faster than the average for all occupations.
EMT/Paramedic: EMT and paramedic training programs typically take less than a year to complete, and graduates can work in ambulance services, fire departments, and other emergency medical services settings. The median annual wage for EMTs and paramedics was $36,650 in May 2020, and employment in this field is projected to grow 6% from 2019 to 2029.
HVAC Technician: The median annual wage for heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration mechanics and installers was $50,590 in May 2020, and employment in this field is projected to grow 4% from 2019 to 2029.
Cosmetologist: Cosmetology programs typically take less than a year to complete, and graduates can work as hairstylists, estheticians, and makeup artists in salons, spas, and other beauty settings. The median annual wage for cosmetologists was $28,770 in May 2020, and employment in this field is projected to grow 8% from 2019 to 2029.
Welder: Welding programs can typically be completed in less than a year, and welders can earn a median annual wage of $45,190 according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Employment of welders is projected to grow 3% from 2019 to 2029, which is about as fast as the average for all occupations.
Massage Therapist: Massage therapy programs can typically be completed in less than a year, and graduates can work in spas, fitness centers, and healthcare settings. The median annual wage for massage therapists was $43,620 in May 2020, and employment in this field is projected to grow 21% from 2019 to 2029.
Electrical and Electronic Systems Technician: These training programs can typically be completed in less than a year, leading to jobs in fields such as construction, manufacturing, and utilities. The median annual wage for electrical and electronic systems technicians was $65,260 in May 2020, and employment in this field is projected to grow by 4% from 2019 to 2029.
Personal Trainer: Personal training certification programs can be completed in a matter of months, and graduates can work in fitness centers, gyms, and other settings helping clients with exercise and fitness routines. The median annual wage for fitness trainers and instructors was $42,260 in May 2020, and employment in this field is projected to grow 15% from 2019 to 2029.
Commercial driver's license (CDL) training: CDL training programs can typically be completed in a matter of weeks or months, and graduates can work as truck drivers, delivery drivers, or bus drivers. The median annual wage for heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers was $48,710 in May 2020, and employment in this field is projected to grow by 2% from 2019 to 2029.
Computer Support Specialist: Computer Support Specialists help people and organizations troubleshoot computer problems and maintain systems. The median annual wage for computer support specialists was $55,510 in May 2020, and employment in this field is projected to grow 8% from 2019 to 2029.
Network Support Specialist: Network support specialist training programs can range from a few months to a year, and graduates can work in a variety of settings providing technical assistance and support for computer networks. They may also be responsible for troubleshooting network problems, setting up new network systems, and ensuring that networks are secure. The median annual wage for network support specialists was $63,460 in May 2020, and employment in this field is projected to grow 6% from 2019 to 2029.
Brick Mason: Brick masons use bricks, concrete blocks, and other materials to build or repair walls, chimneys, and other structures. Brick Mason training programs can vary in length, but some can be completed in less than a year. Brick masons can work for construction companies or start their own businesses. The median annual wage for brick masons and block masons was $50,950 in May 2020, and employment in this field is projected to grow 3% from 2019 to 2029.
Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Installer: Solar PV installers assemble, install, and maintain solar panel systems on rooftops or other structures. These systems convert sunlight into electricity that can be used to power homes or businesses. Training programs for solar PV installers typically take less than a year to complete, and graduates can work for companies that install solar panel systems. The median annual wage for solar PV installers was $46,470 in May 2020, and employment in this field is projected to grow 51% from 2019 to 2029.
Court Reporter: Court Reporters create word-for-word transcriptions of legal proceedings, meetings, and other events using stenotype machines or voice recording equipment. Court reporting training programs can typically be completed in less than a year, and graduates can work in a variety of settings, including courts, law firms, and government agencies. The median annual wage for court reporters was $62,510 in May 2020, and employment in this field is projected to grow 9% from 2019 to 2029.
Automotive Service Technician: Automotive service technicians inspect, maintain, and repair cars and other vehicles. Training programs for automotive service technicians typically take less than a year to complete, and graduates can work for car dealerships, repair shops, or other businesses that provide automotive services. The median annual wage for automotive service technicians and mechanics was $44,050 in May 2020, and employment in this field is projected to grow by 4% from 2019 to 2029.
Surgical Technologists, also known as operating room technicians, assist surgeons, nurses, and other surgical personnel during surgical procedures. They prepare the operating room, arrange equipment, and assist with patient care. Training programs for surgical technologists typically take one to two years to complete, and graduates can work in hospitals, outpatient surgery centers, or other healthcare facilities. The median annual wage for surgical technologists was $49,710 in May 2020, and employment in this field is projected to grow 9% from 2019 to 2029.
(Source: US Bureau of Labor and Statistics)
Book your first free career or college planning session today!
Donna Baines
Baines College Consulting, LLC
Donna has 20 years of college admissions and financial aid experience. She has helped thousands of high school students all over the United States with their college and career goals.
www.collegehelp.me
Comments