Trade Careers in Colorado
Quick answer: In Colorado, elevator mechanics earn a median of $123,360 and electricians $62,230 (BLS, May 2025). Most trades are entered through a registered apprenticeship or a trade-school program rather than a four-year degree. Licensing is handled by the state agencies listed below, mainly the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA).
Colorado’s economy is diversifying, and so is the demand for skilled trades. From Denver to Grand Junction and Colorado Springs, tradespeople are essential to everything from clean energy to housing development. If you want job security, real income, and work that matters, this guide is for you.
Whether you’re a high school grad, veteran, or career changer, here’s how to build a rewarding trade career in Colorado.
Why Trade Careers Are Thriving in Colorado
| Benefit | Details |
|---|---|
| Fast Growth | Colorado remains one of the fastest-growing states1 |
| Construction Demand | Housing booms along the Front Range require electricians and HVAC techs |
| Green Energy Sector | Solar, wind, and efficiency retrofits drive skilled trade jobs |
| Quality Training | Robust community college and union apprenticeship networks |
“Colorado’s trades are the backbone of our housing and infrastructure workforce.” U.S. Department of Labor2
Compare Skilled Trades in Colorado
| Trade | Median Salary | Training Time | License Required? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carpenter | $62,830 | 6 months – 4 years (trade school or apprenticeship) | Optional (apprenticeship recommended) |
| Construction Worker | $47,900 | 3–12 months (apprenticeship or on-the-job) | Varies (OSHA 10/30; state contractor license for supervisors) |
| Flooring Installer | $49,238 | 6–12 months (on-the-job + coursework) | Optional (apprenticeship recommended) |
| Plumber | $63,240 | 4–5 years (apprenticeship) | Yes (state licensing) |
| Welder | $58,590 | 6–18 months (trade school or apprenticeship) | Optional (AWS certification preferred) |
| Construction Manager | $124,830 | 2–4 years (degree or field experience) | Varies (contractor license in many states) |
| Home Inspector | $79,950 | 2–6 months (state-approved course) | Yes in many states (state license) |
| Mold Inspector | N/A | 3–12 months (coursework + field hours) | Varies (state license or industry certification) |
| Electrician | $62,230 | 4–5 years (apprenticeship) | Yes (state licensing) |
| HVAC Technician | $65,200 | 6 months – 2 years (certificate or associate) | Yes (EPA 608 and state licensing) |
| Lineworker | $103,980 | 3–4 years (joint apprenticeship) | Yes (apprenticeship + utility certifications) |
| Solar Installer | $49,730 | 3–12 months (bootcamp or apprenticeship) | Optional (NABCEP certification beneficial) |
| Tower Technician | $56,110 | 3–9 months (tower climbing school + field training) | Yes (OSHA/NRF safety + CPR certifications) |
| Wind Turbine Technician | $74,740 | 1–2 years (associate or technical diploma) | Yes (industry safety certifications) |
| Aircraft Mechanic (A&P) | $82,080 | 18–30 months (Part 147 school or apprenticeship) | Yes (FAA A&P license) |
| Auto Mechanic | $61,280 | 6–12 months (trade school or apprenticeship) | Optional (ASE certifications preferred) |
| Automotive Technician | $61,280 | 9–18 months (advanced diploma or apprenticeship) | Optional (ASE certifications preferred) |
| CNC Machinist | $60,200 | 9–24 months (certificate or apprenticeship) | Optional (NIMS certification beneficial) |
| Diesel Technician | $70,480 | 1–2 years (associate or apprenticeship) | Optional (ASE or OEM certifications) |
| Gunsmith | $70,510 | 6–18 months (certificate or apprenticeship) | Optional (NRA/NSTC credentials beneficial) |
| Heavy Equipment Operator | $62,620 | 6–12 months (trade school or union program) | Optional (CDL required for many roles) |
| Maintenance Technician | $51,280 | 6–12 months (trade school or on-the-job) | Optional (CMRT or OEM certifications) |
| Truck Driver (CDL) | $61,500 | 3–6 months (CDL program) | Yes (CDL Class A or B) |
| Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) | $47,380 | 4–12 weeks (state-approved program) | Yes (state CNA exam) |
| Patient Care Technician | $47,380 | 4–12 months (certificate + clinical hours) | Yes (CNA license + PCT certification in many hospitals) |
| Hemodialysis Technician | $59,430 | 4–12 months (certificate + clinical hours) | Yes (state certification or BONENT/CCHT credential) |
| Home Health Aide | $38,540 | 3–6 months (training + competency exam) | Yes in many states (state-approved HHA program) |
| Medical Assistant | $48,400 | 9–12 months (certificate or diploma) | Optional (CMA, RMA, or CCMA) |
| Mental Health Technician | $47,430 | 6–12 months (certificate + clinical experience) | Varies (state registration + employer training) |
| Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) | $73,880 | 12–18 months (state-approved program) | Yes (state license via NCLEX-PN) |
| Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) | $73,880 | 12–18 months (state-approved program) | Yes (state license via NCLEX-PN) |
| Dental Assistant | $48,340 | 9–18 months (diploma or associate program) | Varies (CDA, RDA, or state license) |
| EKG Technician | $94,190 | 3–9 months (certificate program) | Optional (CET, CCT, or AMCA) |
| Pharmacy Technician | $49,970 | 6–12 months (certificate or on-the-job) | Varies (state license or PTCB/ExCPT) |
| Phlebotomy Technician | $47,180 | 4–6 months (certificate + clinical practice) | Yes in many states (national certification preferred) |
| Radiologic Technologist | $87,760 | 2 years (associate degree) | Yes (ARRT registration + state license) |
| Diagnostic Medical Sonographer | $108,410 | 18–24 months (accredited associate or certificate) | Yes (ARDMS/CCI credential; state license in some areas) |
| Sterile Processing Technician | $47,700 | 6–12 months (certificate + clinical hours) | Yes in many states (CRCST or CBSPD certification) |
| Surgical Technologist | $75,740 | 12–24 months (accredited surgical tech program) | Yes in many states (NBSTSA or NCCT certification) |
| Optician | $47,310 | 9–24 months (apprenticeship or associate) | Yes in many states (state license or ABO-NCLE) |
| Medical Billing & Coding Specialist | $59,020 | 9–24 months (certificate or associate) | Optional (CPC, CCA, or CBCS) |
| Medical Office Administrator | $46,920 | 9–18 months (certificate or associate) | Optional (CMAA or CEHRS certification) |
| Occupational Therapy Assistant | $75,340 | 2 years (accredited associate degree) | Yes (state license via NBCOT exam) |
| Physical Therapy Aide | $41,970 | 3–12 months (certificate or employer training) | Optional (on-the-job + certificate programs) |
| Massage Therapist | $61,060 | 9–18 months (state-approved school) | Yes (state license) |
| Personal Trainer | $49,900 | 3–6 months (exam prep + practicum) | Yes (national certification required by many employers) |
| Dog Trainer | $44,290 | 6–12 months (mentorship or certificate) | Optional (industry certifications preferred) |
| Veterinary Assistant | $38,900 | 6–12 months (certificate + hands-on experience) | Optional (AVMA-approved assistant credential) |
| Veterinary Technician | $49,650 | 2 years (associate degree) | Yes (VTNE and state license) |
| Beauty Professional | $37,690 | 9–15 months (state-approved school) | Yes (state cosmetology license) |
| Cosmetologist | $37,690 | 9–18 months (state-approved school) | Yes (state cosmetology license) |
| Esthetician | $54,500 | 4–9 months (state-approved program) | Yes (state esthetics license) |
| Culinary Chef | $43,894 | 1–2 years (culinary school or apprenticeship) | Optional (ServSafe + local food handler permit) |
| Pastry Chef | $43,894 | 9–18 months (baking & pastry diploma or apprenticeship) | Optional (ServSafe; ACF certification boosts prospects) |
| Bookkeeper | $54,000 | 6–12 months (certificate or on-the-job) | Optional (CB or CPB certification beneficial) |
| Digital Court Reporter | $83,010 | 6–12 months (certificate program) | Optional (AAERT certification preferred) |
| Paralegal | $78,190 | 12–24 months (certificate or associate) | Optional (ABA-approved certificate beneficial) |
Source: BLS OEWS, May 2025. State data (Colorado).
Colorado Apprenticeships and Schools
Colorado supports registered apprenticeships and career-focused programs at technical colleges and community colleges.
| Training Type | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Apprenticeship | 3 to 5 years | Paid, often union-backed, hands-on learning |
| Community College | 6 to 24 months | Degree and certificate programs available statewide |
| On-the-Job Training | Varies | Offered by some solar, welding, and construction employers |
“Colorado’s apprenticeship and career pathway programs are key to filling the skills gap.” Colorado Department of Labor3
Trade Schools in Colorado
Colorado has a statewide network of accredited trade schools and technical colleges offering short-term, career-focused programs in welding, HVAC, solar, and more.
Why Attend Trade School in Colorado?
| Advantage | What It Means for You |
|---|---|
| Accredited Training | HLC- and COE-accredited programs meet employer standards |
| Fast Turnaround | Many trades offer 6 to 18 month completion paths |
| Regional Access | Schools in Denver, Pueblo, Grand Junction, and more |
| Career Services | Many schools connect grads directly to employers |
Explore Accredited Schools
- Best Trade Schools in Colorado (2025). Compare programs, costs, and outcomes.
- How Long is Trade School?
Colorado Licensing Agencies
| Trade | Licensing Agency |
|---|---|
| Electrician | Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies, DORA |
| Plumber | Colorado DORA, State Plumbing Board |
| HVAC Technician | Local licensing by municipality (no statewide HVAC license) |
| Solar Installer | Colorado Electrical Board (for solar wiring) |
| Mold Inspector | No license required statewide; private certifications accepted |
Colorado Trade Career Outlook
Building & Construction Trades
| Trade | Job Growth (2024-2034, US) |
|---|---|
| Plumber | 4.5% |
| Carpenter | 4.5% |
| Welder | 2.2% |
| Flooring Installer | 9.5% |
| Construction Worker | 7.3% |
Construction Management & Inspection
| Trade | Job Growth (2024-2034, US) |
|---|---|
| Construction Manager | 8.7% |
| Home Inspector | -0.8% |
Electrical & Energy Systems
| Trade | Job Growth (2024-2034, US) |
|---|---|
| Lineworker | 6.6% |
| Wind Turbine Technician | 49.9% |
| HVAC Technician | 8.1% |
| Electrician | 9.5% |
| Tower Technician | 8.6% |
| Solar Installer | 42.1% |
Mechanical, Automotive & Transportation
| Trade | Job Growth (2024-2034, US) |
|---|---|
| Aircraft Mechanic (A&P) | 4.0% |
| Gunsmith | 2.0% |
| Diesel Technician | 2.4% |
| Heavy Equipment Operator | 3.6% |
| Truck Driver (CDL) | 4.0% |
| Auto Mechanic | 4.2% |
| Automotive Technician | 4.2% |
| CNC Machinist | 0.0% |
| Maintenance Technician | 3.8% |
Healthcare: Nursing & Patient Care
| Trade | Job Growth (2024-2034, US) |
|---|---|
| Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) | 2.6% |
| Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) | 2.6% |
| Hemodialysis Technician | 5.2% |
| Medical Assistant | 12.5% |
| Mental Health Technician | 20.0% |
| Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) | 2.3% |
| Patient Care Technician | 2.3% |
| Home Health Aide | 17.0% |
Healthcare: Allied Health & Diagnostics
| Trade | Job Growth (2024-2034, US) |
|---|---|
| Diagnostic Medical Sonographer | 13.0% |
| EKG Technician | 3.0% |
| Radiologic Technologist | 4.3% |
| Surgical Technologist | 4.5% |
| Pharmacy Technician | 6.4% |
| Dental Assistant | 6.4% |
| Sterile Processing Technician | 10.0% |
| Optician | 2.9% |
| Phlebotomy Technician | 5.6% |
Healthcare: Administration & Office Support
| Trade | Job Growth (2024-2034, US) |
|---|---|
| Medical Billing & Coding Specialist | 7.1% |
| Medical Office Administrator | 4.2% |
Therapy, Rehab & Fitness
| Trade | Job Growth (2024-2034, US) |
|---|---|
| Occupational Therapy Assistant | 19.2% |
| Massage Therapist | 15.4% |
| Personal Trainer | 11.9% |
| Physical Therapy Aide | 2.8% |
Animal Care & Training
| Trade | Job Growth (2024-2034, US) |
|---|---|
| Veterinary Technician | 9.1% |
| Dog Trainer | 5.1% |
| Veterinary Assistant | 8.7% |
Beauty & Personal Care
| Trade | Job Growth (2024-2034, US) |
|---|---|
| Esthetician | 6.7% |
| Beauty Professional | 5.6% |
| Cosmetologist | 5.6% |
Culinary & Hospitality Careers
| Trade | Job Growth (2024-2034, US) |
|---|---|
| Culinary Chef | 7.1% |
| Pastry Chef | 7.1% |
Business & Legal Support
| Trade | Job Growth (2024-2034, US) |
|---|---|
| Digital Court Reporter | -0.3% |
| Paralegal | 0.2% |
| Bookkeeper | -5.8% |
Job growth uses state projections when available and national projections (BLS Employment Projections, 2024-2034) when state data is unavailable. Median pay for each trade is shown in the comparison table above.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Employment Projections (2024-2034). Projected U.S. change shown for each trade.
Ready to Start a Trade Career in Colorado?
Pick a trade, choose your path, and start building your future. Colorado’s economy needs skilled tradespeople, and the demand is only growing.
Citations
About this guide: Researched and written by the TradeCareerPath Editorial Team. Our editorial team researches and sources every trade school and career guide using federal labor and education data, including BLS OEWS and Employment Projections, DOL apprenticeship records, IPEDS, College Scorecard, and state licensing boards. We follow the editorial standards documented at /editorial-policy/.
References
U.S. Census Bureau, Colorado Growth Stats: https://www.census.gov ↩︎
U.S. Department of Labor, Apprenticeship Resources: https://www.dol.gov/apprenticeship ↩︎
Colorado Department of Labor and Employment, Apprenticeship Info: https://cdle.colorado.gov ↩︎