Trade Careers in Maryland
Quick answer: In Maryland, elevator mechanics earn a median of $122,260 and electricians $73,490 (BLS, May 2025). Most trades are entered through an apprenticeship or a trade-school program rather than a four-year degree. Licensing is handled by the state agencies listed below, including the Maryland Board of Electricians, the Board of Plumbing, and the HVACR Board.
Maryland’s economy is evolving fast, and skilled trades are at the heart of that change. 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 | Median Salary | Training Time | License Required? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carpenter | $62,960 | 6 months – 4 years (trade school or apprenticeship) | Optional (apprenticeship recommended) |
| Construction Worker | $46,960 | 3–12 months (apprenticeship or on-the-job) | Varies (OSHA 10/30; state contractor license for supervisors) |
| Flooring Installer | $47,880 | 6–12 months (on-the-job + coursework) | Optional (apprenticeship recommended) |
| Plumber | $65,400 | 4–5 years (apprenticeship) | Yes (state licensing) |
| Welder | $60,310 | 6–18 months (trade school or apprenticeship) | Optional (AWS certification preferred) |
| Construction Manager | $128,330 | 2–4 years (degree or field experience) | Varies (contractor license in many states) |
| Home Inspector | $76,640 | 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 | $73,490 | 4–5 years (apprenticeship) | Yes (state licensing) |
| HVAC Technician | $70,020 | 6 months – 2 years (certificate or associate) | Yes (EPA 608 and state licensing) |
| Lineworker | $106,090 | 3–4 years (joint apprenticeship) | Yes (apprenticeship + utility certifications) |
| Solar Installer | $45,430 | 3–12 months (bootcamp or apprenticeship) | Optional (NABCEP certification beneficial) |
| Tower Technician | $100,800 | 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) | $100,500 | 18–30 months (Part 147 school or apprenticeship) | Yes (FAA A&P license) |
| Auto Mechanic | $57,520 | 6–12 months (trade school or apprenticeship) | Optional (ASE certifications preferred) |
| Automotive Technician | $57,520 | 9–18 months (advanced diploma or apprenticeship) | Optional (ASE certifications preferred) |
| CNC Machinist | $59,810 | 9–24 months (certificate or apprenticeship) | Optional (NIMS certification beneficial) |
| Diesel Technician | $74,790 | 1–2 years (associate or apprenticeship) | Optional (ASE or OEM certifications) |
| Gunsmith | $65,240 | 6–18 months (certificate or apprenticeship) | Optional (NRA/NSTC credentials beneficial) |
| Heavy Equipment Operator | $61,410 | 6–12 months (trade school or union program) | Optional (CDL required for many roles) |
| Maintenance Technician | $51,490 | 6–12 months (trade school or on-the-job) | Optional (CMRT or OEM certifications) |
| Truck Driver (CDL) | $59,360 | 3–6 months (CDL program) | Yes (CDL Class A or B) |
| Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) | $43,240 | 4–12 weeks (state-approved program) | Yes (state CNA exam) |
| Patient Care Technician | $43,240 | 4–12 months (certificate + clinical hours) | Yes (CNA license + PCT certification in many hospitals) |
| Hemodialysis Technician | $47,750 | 4–12 months (certificate + clinical hours) | Yes (state certification or BONENT/CCHT credential) |
| Home Health Aide | $38,040 | 3–6 months (training + competency exam) | Yes in many states (state-approved HHA program) |
| Medical Assistant | $46,410 | 9–12 months (certificate or diploma) | Optional (CMA, RMA, or CCMA) |
| Mental Health Technician | $45,520 | 6–12 months (certificate + clinical experience) | Varies (state registration + employer training) |
| Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) | $74,660 | 12–18 months (state-approved program) | Yes (state license via NCLEX-PN) |
| Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) | $74,660 | 12–18 months (state-approved program) | Yes (state license via NCLEX-PN) |
| Dental Assistant | $48,620 | 9–18 months (diploma or associate program) | Varies (CDA, RDA, or state license) |
| EKG Technician | $86,440 | 3–9 months (certificate program) | Optional (CET, CCT, or AMCA) |
| Pharmacy Technician | $45,120 | 6–12 months (certificate or on-the-job) | Varies (state license or PTCB/ExCPT) |
| Phlebotomy Technician | $43,480 | 4–6 months (certificate + clinical practice) | Yes in many states (national certification preferred) |
| Radiologic Technologist | $85,890 | 2 years (associate degree) | Yes (ARRT registration + state license) |
| Diagnostic Medical Sonographer | $99,210 | 18–24 months (accredited associate or certificate) | Yes (ARDMS/CCI credential; state license in some areas) |
| Sterile Processing Technician | $48,680 | 6–12 months (certificate + clinical hours) | Yes in many states (CRCST or CBSPD certification) |
| Surgical Technologist | $68,970 | 12–24 months (accredited surgical tech program) | Yes in many states (NBSTSA or NCCT certification) |
| Optician | $48,700 | 9–24 months (apprenticeship or associate) | Yes in many states (state license or ABO-NCLE) |
| Medical Billing & Coding Specialist | $54,220 | 9–24 months (certificate or associate) | Optional (CPC, CCA, or CBCS) |
| Medical Office Administrator | $47,850 | 9–18 months (certificate or associate) | Optional (CMAA or CEHRS certification) |
| Occupational Therapy Assistant | $82,010 | 2 years (accredited associate degree) | Yes (state license via NBCOT exam) |
| Physical Therapy Aide | $34,780 | 3–12 months (certificate or employer training) | Optional (on-the-job + certificate programs) |
| Massage Therapist | $62,270 | 9–18 months (state-approved school) | Yes (state license) |
| Personal Trainer | $47,420 | 3–6 months (exam prep + practicum) | Yes (national certification required by many employers) |
| Dog Trainer | $37,430 | 6–12 months (mentorship or certificate) | Optional (industry certifications preferred) |
| Veterinary Assistant | $44,770 | 6–12 months (certificate + hands-on experience) | Optional (AVMA-approved assistant credential) |
| Veterinary Technician | $47,350 | 2 years (associate degree) | Yes (VTNE and state license) |
| Beauty Professional | $36,420 | 9–15 months (state-approved school) | Yes (state cosmetology license) |
| Cosmetologist | $36,420 | 9–18 months (state-approved school) | Yes (state cosmetology license) |
| Esthetician | $46,590 | 4–9 months (state-approved program) | Yes (state esthetics license) |
| Culinary Chef | $40,966 | 1–2 years (culinary school or apprenticeship) | Optional (ServSafe + local food handler permit) |
| Pastry Chef | $40,966 | 9–18 months (baking & pastry diploma or apprenticeship) | Optional (ServSafe; ACF certification boosts prospects) |
| Bookkeeper | $53,540 | 6–12 months (certificate or on-the-job) | Optional (CB or CPB certification beneficial) |
| Digital Court Reporter | $59,300 | 6–12 months (certificate program) | Optional (AAERT certification preferred) |
| Paralegal | $65,640 | 12–24 months (certificate or associate) | Optional (ABA-approved certificate beneficial) |
Source: BLS OEWS, May 2025. State data (Maryland).
Maryland Apprenticeships and 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 apprenticeship placements; availability varies and is not guaranteed |
| 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 Program2
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.
Why Attend Trade School in Maryland?
| Advantage | What It Means for You |
|---|---|
| Accredited Programs | Accredited by HLC, COE, or MSCHE |
| Fast Turnaround | 6-18 month certificates and associate degrees |
| Regional Access | Campuses in Baltimore, Rockville, Salisbury, and more |
| Job Placement | Strong employer ties and career services |
Explore Accredited Schools
- Best Trade Schools in Maryland (2025) Compare programs by region
- How Long is Trade School?
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
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% |
| Tower Technician | 8.6% |
| Electrician | 9.5% |
| HVAC Technician | 8.1% |
| Wind Turbine Technician | 49.9% |
| Solar Installer | 42.1% |
Mechanical, Automotive & Transportation
| Trade | Job Growth (2024-2034, US) |
|---|---|
| Aircraft Mechanic (A&P) | 4.0% |
| Diesel Technician | 2.4% |
| Gunsmith | 2.0% |
| Heavy Equipment Operator | 3.6% |
| CNC Machinist | 0.0% |
| Truck Driver (CDL) | 4.0% |
| Auto Mechanic | 4.2% |
| Automotive Technician | 4.2% |
| 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% |
| Optician | 2.9% |
| Sterile Processing Technician | 10.0% |
| Dental Assistant | 6.4% |
| Pharmacy Technician | 6.4% |
| 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% |
| Veterinary Assistant | 8.7% |
| Dog Trainer | 5.1% |
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) |
|---|---|
| Paralegal | 0.2% |
| Digital Court Reporter | -0.3% |
| 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 Maryland?
Pick a trade, choose your training path, and get started. With solid wages and steady demand, now is a good time to launch a career that matters right here in Maryland.
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
Maryland Department of Labor, Apprenticeships Overview: https://www.dllr.state.md.us/employment/appr/ ↩︎
Maryland Apprenticeship and Training Program (MATP): https://www.dllr.state.md.us/employment/appr/ ↩︎