Trade Careers in Illinois
Illinois' skilled trades remain in high demand-from union electricians in Chicago to HVAC installers in Springfield. With ongoing infrastructure projects and aging buildings, the need for trade talent is growing across the state.
If you're after hands‑on work, solid pay, and a respected career path without a four‑year degree, this guide will help you get started.
🏙️ Why Trade Careers Are Thriving in Illinois
| Benefit | Details |
|---|---|
| Urban & Suburban Demand | Aging infrastructure and renovations in Chicago, suburbs, and downstate |
| Weather Impacts | Cold winters and hot summers drive HVAC, plumbing, and electrical work |
| Infrastructure Projects | Transportation and utility upgrades increase demand for skilled trade workers |
| Apprentice Incentives | Employer tax credits for supporting apprenticeships[^2] |
“Skilled trades in Illinois offer strong wages and apprenticeship incentives that appeal to both workers and employers.” - U.S. Department of Labor[^2]
⚖️ Compare Skilled Trades in Illinois
| Trade | Median Salary | Training Time | License Required? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carpenter | $76,410 | 6 months – 4 years (trade school or apprenticeship) | Optional (apprenticeship recommended) |
| Construction Worker | $64,890 | 3–12 months (apprenticeship or on-the-job) | Varies (OSHA 10/30; state contractor license for supervisors) |
| Flooring Installer | $69,240 | 6–12 months (on-the-job + coursework) | Optional (apprenticeship recommended) |
| Plumber | $96,200 | 4–5 years (apprenticeship) | Yes (state licensing) |
| Welder | $49,730 | 6–18 months (trade school or apprenticeship) | Optional (AWS certification preferred) |
| Construction Manager | $108,570 | 2–4 years (degree or field experience) | Varies (contractor license in many states) |
| Home Inspector | $73,050 | 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 | $96,360 | 4–5 years (apprenticeship) | Yes (state licensing) |
| HVAC Technician | $71,620 | 6 months – 2 years (certificate or associate) | Yes (EPA 608 and state licensing) |
| Lineworker | $105,970 | 3–4 years (joint apprenticeship) | Yes (apprenticeship + utility certifications) |
| Solar Installer | $44,890 | 3–12 months (bootcamp or apprenticeship) | Optional (NABCEP certification beneficial) |
| Tower Technician | $75,590 | 3–9 months (tower climbing school + field training) | Yes (OSHA/NRF safety + CPR certifications) |
| Wind Turbine Technician | N/A | 1–2 years (associate or technical diploma) | Yes (industry safety certifications) |
| Aircraft Mechanic (A&P) | $79,700 | 18–30 months (Part 147 school or apprenticeship) | Yes (FAA A&P license) |
| Auto Mechanic | $50,450 | 6–12 months (trade school or apprenticeship) | Optional (ASE certifications preferred) |
| Automotive Technician | $50,450 | 9–18 months (advanced diploma or apprenticeship) | Optional (ASE certifications preferred) |
| CNC Machinist | $56,700 | 9–24 months (certificate or apprenticeship) | Optional (NIMS certification beneficial) |
| Diesel Technician | $62,750 | 1–2 years (associate or apprenticeship) | Optional (ASE or OEM certifications) |
| Gunsmith | $53,500 | 6–18 months (certificate or apprenticeship) | Optional (NRA/NSTC credentials beneficial) |
| Heavy Equipment Operator | $96,980 | 6–12 months (trade school or union program) | Optional (CDL required for many roles) |
| Maintenance Technician | $54,220 | 6–12 months (trade school or on-the-job) | Optional (CMRT or OEM certifications) |
| Truck Driver (CDL) | $59,790 | 3–6 months (CDL program) | Yes (CDL Class A or B) |
| Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) | $44,750 | 4–12 weeks (state-approved program) | Yes (state CNA exam) |
| Patient Care Technician | $44,750 | 4–12 months (certificate + clinical hours) | Yes (CNA license + PCT certification in many hospitals) |
| Hemodialysis Technician | $49,570 | 4–12 months (certificate + clinical hours) | Yes (state certification or BONENT/CCHT credential) |
| Home Health Aide | $36,310 | 3–6 months (training + competency exam) | Yes in many states (state-approved HHA program) |
| Medical Assistant | $45,490 | 9–12 months (certificate or diploma) | Optional (CMA, RMA, or CCMA) |
| Mental Health Technician | $48,550 | 6–12 months (certificate + clinical experience) | Varies (state registration + employer training) |
| Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) | $66,030 | 12–18 months (state-approved program) | Yes (state license via NCLEX-PN) |
| Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) | $66,030 | 12–18 months (state-approved program) | Yes (state license via NCLEX-PN) |
| Dental Assistant | $47,430 | 9–18 months (diploma or associate program) | Varies (CDA, RDA, or state license) |
| EKG Technician | $73,600 | 3–9 months (certificate program) | Optional (CET, CCT, or AMCA) |
| Pharmacy Technician | $44,610 | 6–12 months (certificate or on-the-job) | Varies (state license or PTCB/ExCPT) |
| Phlebotomy Technician | $45,620 | 4–6 months (certificate + clinical practice) | Yes in many states (national certification preferred) |
| Radiologic Technologist | $77,890 | 2 years (associate degree) | Yes (ARRT registration + state license) |
| Diagnostic Medical Sonographer | $97,810 | 18–24 months (accredited associate or certificate) | Yes (ARDMS/CCI credential; state license in some areas) |
| Sterile Processing Technician | $47,100 | 6–12 months (certificate + clinical hours) | Yes in many states (CRCST or CBSPD certification) |
| Surgical Technologist | $62,510 | 12–24 months (accredited surgical tech program) | Yes in many states (NBSTSA or NCCT certification) |
| Optician | $41,230 | 9–24 months (apprenticeship or associate) | Yes in many states (state license or ABO-NCLE) |
| Medical Billing & Coding Specialist | $49,420 | 9–24 months (certificate or associate) | Optional (CPC, CCA, or CBCS) |
| Medical Office Administrator | $45,200 | 9–18 months (certificate or associate) | Optional (CMAA or CEHRS certification) |
| Occupational Therapy Assistant | $63,710 | 2 years (accredited associate degree) | Yes (state license via NBCOT exam) |
| Physical Therapy Aide | $34,790 | 3–12 months (certificate or employer training) | Optional (on-the-job + certificate programs) |
| Massage Therapist | $60,640 | 9–18 months (state-approved school) | Yes (state license) |
| Personal Trainer | $50,290 | 3–6 months (exam prep + practicum) | Yes (national certification required by many employers) |
| Dog Trainer | $34,560 | 6–12 months (mentorship or certificate) | Optional (industry certifications preferred) |
| Veterinary Assistant | $37,310 | 6–12 months (certificate + hands-on experience) | Optional (AVMA-approved assistant credential) |
| Veterinary Technician | $47,860 | 2 years (associate degree) | Yes (VTNE and state license) |
| Beauty Professional | $34,800 | 9–15 months (state-approved school) | Yes (state cosmetology license) |
| Cosmetologist | $34,800 | 9–18 months (state-approved school) | Yes (state cosmetology license) |
| Esthetician | $38,580 | 4–9 months (state-approved program) | Yes (state esthetics license) |
| Culinary Chef | $38,414 | 1–2 years (culinary school or apprenticeship) | Optional (ServSafe + local food handler permit) |
| Pastry Chef | $38,414 | 9–18 months (baking & pastry diploma or apprenticeship) | Optional (ServSafe; ACF certification boosts prospects) |
| Bookkeeper | $48,840 | 6–12 months (certificate or on-the-job) | Optional (CB or CPB certification beneficial) |
| Digital Court Reporter | $76,030 | 6–12 months (certificate program) | Optional (AAERT certification preferred) |
| Paralegal | $62,290 | 12–24 months (certificate or associate) | Optional (ABA-approved certificate beneficial) |
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2024. State data (Illinois).
🧰 Illinois Apprenticeships & Training
Illinois has more than 94 registered apprenticeship programs in construction trades-with 15,124 apprentices in 2024 alone[^1] and around 16,000 reported in earlier data[^4].
| Training Type | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Apprenticeship | 3-5 years | Paid, structured OJT with union and non‑union options |
| Technical College | 6-24 months | Programs in HVAC, welding, electrical, and HVAC |
| On-the-Job Training | Varies | Employer-provided training in solar, carpentry, plumbing |
“Illinois reported 15,124 apprentices across construction trades in 2024.” - Illinois DOL report[^1]
🏫 Trade Schools in Illinois
Public technical colleges and private trade schools across Illinois-including in Chicago, Springfield, and Peoria-offer accelerated, affordable training for in‑demand trades.
🏛️ Illinois Licensing Agencies
| Trade | Licensing Agency |
|---|---|
| Electrician | Illinois Department of Financial & Professional Regulation (IDFPR) Electrical Division |
| Plumber | IDFPR Plumbing & Piping Division |
| HVAC Technician | IDFPR Refrigeration Mechanics License board |
| Solar Installer | May require electrical contractor license depending on scope |
| Mold Inspector | No state license required (optional national certifications recommended) |
📈 Illinois Trade Career Outlook
Building & Construction Trades
| Trade | Median Salary | Job Growth (2024-2034, US) |
|---|---|---|
| Welder | $49,730 | 2.2% |
| Plumber | $96,200 | 4.5% |
| Flooring Installer | $69,240 | 9.5% |
| Construction Worker | $64,890 | 7.3% |
| Carpenter | $76,410 | 4.5% |
Construction Management & Inspection
| Trade | Median Salary | Job Growth (2024-2034, US) |
|---|---|---|
| Home Inspector | $73,050 | -0.8% |
| Construction Manager | $108,570 | 8.7% |
Electrical & Energy Systems
| Trade | Median Salary | Job Growth (2024-2034, US) |
|---|---|---|
| Wind Turbine Technician | $62,580 | 49.9% |
| Tower Technician | $75,590 | -3.1% |
| Solar Installer | $44,890 | 42.1% |
| Lineworker | $105,970 | 6.6% |
| HVAC Technician | $71,620 | 8.1% |
| Electrician | $96,360 | 9.5% |
Mechanical, Automotive & Transportation
| Trade | Median Salary | Job Growth (2024-2034, US) |
|---|---|---|
| Truck Driver (CDL) | $59,790 | 4.0% |
| Maintenance Technician | $54,220 | 3.8% |
| Heavy Equipment Operator | $96,980 | 3.6% |
| Gunsmith | $53,500 | 2.4% |
| Diesel Technician | $62,750 | 2.4% |
| CNC Machinist | $56,700 | 0.0% |
| Automotive Technician | $50,450 | 4.2% |
| Auto Mechanic | $50,450 | 4.2% |
| Aircraft Mechanic (A&P) | $79,700 | 4.0% |
Healthcare: Nursing & Patient Care
| Trade | Median Salary | Job Growth (2024-2034, US) |
|---|---|---|
| Patient Care Technician | $44,750 | 2.3% |
| Mental Health Technician | $48,550 | 20.0% |
| Medical Assistant | $45,490 | 12.5% |
| Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) | $66,030 | 2.6% |
| Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) | $66,030 | 2.6% |
| Home Health Aide | $36,310 | 17.0% |
| Hemodialysis Technician | $49,570 | 5.2% |
| Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) | $44,750 | 2.3% |
Healthcare: Allied Health & Diagnostics
| Trade | Median Salary | Job Growth (2024-2034, US) |
|---|---|---|
| Surgical Technologist | $62,510 | 4.5% |
| Sterile Processing Technician | $47,100 | 10.0% |
| Radiologic Technologist | $77,890 | 4.3% |
| Phlebotomy Technician | $45,620 | 5.6% |
| Pharmacy Technician | $44,610 | 6.4% |
| Optician | $41,230 | 2.9% |
| EKG Technician | $73,600 | 3.0% |
| Diagnostic Medical Sonographer | $97,810 | 13.0% |
| Dental Assistant | $47,430 | 6.4% |
Healthcare: Administration & Office Support
| Trade | Median Salary | Job Growth (2024-2034, US) |
|---|---|---|
| Medical Office Administrator | $45,200 | 4.2% |
| Medical Billing & Coding Specialist | $49,420 | 7.1% |
Therapy, Rehab & Fitness
| Trade | Median Salary | Job Growth (2024-2034, US) |
|---|---|---|
| Physical Therapy Aide | $34,790 | 2.8% |
| Personal Trainer | $50,290 | 11.9% |
| Occupational Therapy Assistant | $63,710 | 19.2% |
| Massage Therapist | $60,640 | 15.4% |
Animal Care & Training
| Trade | Median Salary | Job Growth (2024-2034, US) |
|---|---|---|
| Veterinary Technician | $47,860 | 9.1% |
| Veterinary Assistant | $37,310 | 8.7% |
| Dog Trainer | $34,560 | 5.1% |
Beauty & Personal Care
| Trade | Median Salary | Job Growth (2024-2034, US) |
|---|---|---|
| Esthetician | $38,580 | 6.7% |
| Cosmetologist | $34,800 | 5.6% |
| Beauty Professional | $34,800 | 5.6% |
Culinary & Hospitality Careers
| Trade | Median Salary | Job Growth (2024-2034, US) |
|---|---|---|
| Pastry Chef | $38,414 | 7.1% |
| Culinary Chef | $38,414 | 7.1% |
Business & Legal Support
| Trade | Median Salary | Job Growth (2024-2034, US) |
|---|---|---|
| Paralegal | $62,290 | 0.2% |
| Digital Court Reporter | $76,030 | -0.3% |
| Bookkeeper | $48,840 | -5.8% |
Median salaries reflect the latest OEWS release; job growth uses state projections when available and national projections when state data is unavailable.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2024. State data (Illinois) shown where available; national OEWS values used when state data is unavailable. Job growth reflects projected U.S. change for each trade.
✅ Ready to Start a Trade Career in Illinois?
Choose a trade, explore local apprenticeships or trade colleges, and begin training now. Illinois continues to expand its skilled workforce-with incentives for employers and pathways for new talent.
📚 Citations
[^1]: Illinois Dept. of Labor - 2024 Minority & Female Building Trades Annual Report (15,124 apprentices in 2024)
[^2]: U.S. Department of Labor - Illinois apprenticeship tax credit & recent workforce funding updates
[^3]: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics - Plumbers, Pipefitters & Steamfitters median wage and 6% growth forecast
[^4]: U.S. BLS - HVAC mechanics/installers median wage and 9% projected growth
[^6]: U.S. BLS - Electricians median wage and 11% projected growth
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Meet the author: Brad Fishbein is a Florida Licensed Mold Assessor and council-certified Microbial Investigator. He’s the founder of TradeCareerPath.com and has completed over 5,000 mold inspections since 2009. Brad now helps homeowners and tradespeople make smart decisions about mold, licensing, and skilled career paths.
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