Trade Careers in Maryland
Updated August 14, 2025 | Brad Fishbein
Maryland's economy is evolving rapidly-and skilled trades are at the heart of that transformation. From Baltimore to Annapolis and Frederick, tradespeople are driving infrastructure upgrades, renewable energy projects, and high-demand construction work.
Whether you're just graduating high school or switching careers, here's your roadmap to starting a rewarding trade career in Maryland.
🛠️ Why Trade Careers Are Thriving in Maryland
| Benefit | Details |
|---|---|
| Strategic Location | Close to D.C., with federal infrastructure and commercial projects |
| High Demand | Booming construction, healthcare, and clean energy sectors |
| Strong Apprenticeships | Union and state-sponsored apprenticeship programs across the state |
| Workforce Support | Maryland CTE programs and workforce training funding statewide |
“Skilled trades are essential to Maryland's workforce strategy.” - Maryland Department of Labor1
⚖️ Compare Skilled Trades in Maryland
| Trade | Avg. Salary2 | Training Time | License Required? | Learn More |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Electrician | $63,310 | 4-5 years | ✅ Yes | Electrician Guide |
| HVAC Technician | $59,350 | 6-24 months | ✅ Yes | HVAC Guide |
| Plumber | $62,940 | 4-5 years | ✅ Yes | Plumber Guide |
| Welder | $52,410 | 6-18 months | ❌ Optional (certs) | Welder Guide |
| Solar Installer | $53,020 | 3-12 months | ❌ Optional (some NABCEP) | Solar Guide |
| Carpenter | $52,770 | 6-24 months | ❌ No | Carpenter Guide |
| Mold Inspector | $54,850 | 1-6 months | ❌ No (Voluntary cert) | Mold Guide |
🧰 Maryland Apprenticeships & Schools
Maryland offers a wide network of union and state-registered apprenticeships, plus career-focused training at public trade schools and community colleges.
| Training Type | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Apprenticeship | 3-5 years | Paid, hands-on learning with job placement |
| Community College | 6-24 months | Programs in HVAC, electrical, welding, and more |
| On-the-Job Training | Varies | Offered by local construction and solar employers |
“Maryland apprenticeships are a direct path to good-paying careers.” - Maryland Apprenticeship and Training Program3
🏫 Trade Schools in Maryland
From Baltimore County to Southern Maryland, accredited trade schools offer fast, affordable programs in high-demand fields like HVAC, welding, and construction.
🎓 Tip: Most public trade schools in Maryland qualify for Pell Grants and Maryland Promise scholarships.
Why Attend Trade School in Maryland?
| Advantage | What It Means for You |
|---|---|
| Accredited Programs | State-approved and nationally accredited (HLC, COE) |
| Fast Turnaround | 6-18 month certificates and associate degrees |
| Financial Support | FAFSA, WIOA, and state aid available |
| Regional Access | Campuses in Baltimore, Rockville, Salisbury, and more |
| Job Placement | Strong employer ties and career services |
Explore Accredited Schools
🏛️ Maryland Licensing Agencies
| Trade | Licensing Agency |
|---|---|
| Electrician | Maryland Board of Electricians |
| Plumber | Maryland Board of Plumbing |
| HVAC Technician | Maryland HVACR Board |
| Solar Installer | Typically through electrical licensing + NABCEP certifications |
| Mold Inspector | No state license required; private certs like ACAC or NAMP recommended |
📈 Maryland Trade Career Outlook
| Trade | Median Salary2 | Projected Growth |
|---|---|---|
| Electrician | $63,310 | 8% |
| HVAC Technician | $59,350 | 9% |
| Plumber | $62,940 | 7% |
| Welder | $52,410 | 3% |
| Solar Installer | $53,020 | 17% |
| Carpenter | $52,770 | 2% |
| Mold Inspector | $54,850 | 6% |
✅ Ready to Start a Trade Career in Maryland?
Pick a trade, choose your training path, and get started. With rising wages and high demand, now is the time to launch a career that matters-right here in Maryland.
📚 Citations
-
Maryland Department of Labor - Apprenticeships Overview: https://www.dllr.state.md.us/employment/appr/ ↩
-
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics - Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (MD): https://www.bls.gov/oes ↩ ↩
-
Maryland Apprenticeship and Training Program (MATP): https://www.dllr.state.md.us/employment/appr/ ↩
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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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