Trade Careers in Massachusetts
Quick answer: In Massachusetts, elevator mechanics earn a median of about $138,420 and electrical line workers about $110,210 (BLS, May 2025), making them among the highest-paying skilled trades in the state. Most trades are entered through an apprenticeship or a trade-school program rather than a college degree. Licensing is handled by the state agencies listed below, such as the Board of State Examiners of Electricians and the Board of Examiners of Plumbers and Gas Fitters.
Massachusetts’s skilled trades are vital to the state’s innovation-driven economy, supporting clean energy, biotech manufacturing, transportation, and construction. From Boston to Worcester and Springfield, trained trade workers are in high demand.
Whether you’re graduating high school or seeking a new career path, here’s how to launch a successful skilled trade career in Massachusetts.
Why Trade Careers Are Growing in Massachusetts
| Benefit | Details |
|---|---|
| Aging Infrastructure | Roads, bridges, buildings, and transit systems need modernization |
| Green Energy Commitment | State is investing heavily in offshore wind, solar, and energy retrofits |
| Workforce Grants Available | Programs like MassHire and SNAP Path to Work fund training |
| Apprenticeships Expanding | Strong union presence and growing demand for registered apprenticeships |
“Massachusetts needs trained workers to support its economic and energy future.” - Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development1
Compare Skilled Trades in Massachusetts
| Trade | Median Salary | Training Time | License Required? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carpenter | $75,200 | 6 months – 4 years (trade school or apprenticeship) | Optional (apprenticeship recommended) |
| Construction Worker | $63,390 | 3–12 months (apprenticeship or on-the-job) | Varies (OSHA 10/30; state contractor license for supervisors) |
| Flooring Installer | $79,280 | 6–12 months (on-the-job + coursework) | Optional (apprenticeship recommended) |
| Plumber | $93,880 | 4–5 years (apprenticeship) | Yes (state licensing) |
| Welder | $62,570 | 6–18 months (trade school or apprenticeship) | Optional (AWS certification preferred) |
| Construction Manager | $145,010 | 2–4 years (degree or field experience) | Varies (contractor license in many states) |
| Home Inspector | $83,200 | 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 | $79,420 | 4–5 years (apprenticeship) | Yes (state licensing) |
| HVAC Technician | $77,300 | 6 months – 2 years (certificate or associate) | Yes (EPA 608 and state licensing) |
| Lineworker | $110,210 | 3–4 years (joint apprenticeship) | Yes (apprenticeship + utility certifications) |
| Solar Installer | $59,180 | 3–12 months (bootcamp or apprenticeship) | Optional (NABCEP certification beneficial) |
| Tower Technician | $60,890 | 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) | $93,040 | 18–30 months (Part 147 school or apprenticeship) | Yes (FAA A&P license) |
| Auto Mechanic | $60,760 | 6–12 months (trade school or apprenticeship) | Optional (ASE certifications preferred) |
| Automotive Technician | $60,760 | 9–18 months (advanced diploma or apprenticeship) | Optional (ASE certifications preferred) |
| CNC Machinist | $67,270 | 9–24 months (certificate or apprenticeship) | Optional (NIMS certification beneficial) |
| Diesel Technician | $73,270 | 1–2 years (associate or apprenticeship) | Optional (ASE or OEM certifications) |
| Gunsmith | $62,260 | 6–18 months (certificate or apprenticeship) | Optional (NRA/NSTC credentials beneficial) |
| Heavy Equipment Operator | $76,820 | 6–12 months (trade school or union program) | Optional (CDL required for many roles) |
| Maintenance Technician | $58,320 | 6–12 months (trade school or on-the-job) | Optional (CMRT or OEM certifications) |
| Truck Driver (CDL) | $63,030 | 3–6 months (CDL program) | Yes (CDL Class A or B) |
| Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) | $46,680 | 4–12 weeks (state-approved program) | Yes (state CNA exam) |
| Patient Care Technician | $46,680 | 4–12 months (certificate + clinical hours) | Yes (CNA license + PCT certification in many hospitals) |
| Hemodialysis Technician | $60,500 | 4–12 months (certificate + clinical hours) | Yes (state certification or BONENT/CCHT credential) |
| Home Health Aide | $40,910 | 3–6 months (training + competency exam) | Yes in many states (state-approved HHA program) |
| Medical Assistant | $49,460 | 9–12 months (certificate or diploma) | Optional (CMA, RMA, or CCMA) |
| Mental Health Technician | $52,000 | 6–12 months (certificate + clinical experience) | Varies (state registration + employer training) |
| Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) | $80,220 | 12–18 months (state-approved program) | Yes (state license via NCLEX-PN) |
| Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) | $80,220 | 12–18 months (state-approved program) | Yes (state license via NCLEX-PN) |
| Dental Assistant | $57,980 | 9–18 months (diploma or associate program) | Varies (CDA, RDA, or state license) |
| EKG Technician | $105,580 | 3–9 months (certificate program) | Optional (CET, CCT, or AMCA) |
| Pharmacy Technician | $46,470 | 6–12 months (certificate or on-the-job) | Varies (state license or PTCB/ExCPT) |
| Phlebotomy Technician | $50,170 | 4–6 months (certificate + clinical practice) | Yes in many states (national certification preferred) |
| Radiologic Technologist | $103,620 | 2 years (associate degree) | Yes (ARRT registration + state license) |
| Diagnostic Medical Sonographer | $107,480 | 18–24 months (accredited associate or certificate) | Yes (ARDMS/CCI credential; state license in some areas) |
| Sterile Processing Technician | $58,580 | 6–12 months (certificate + clinical hours) | Yes in many states (CRCST or CBSPD certification) |
| Surgical Technologist | $80,870 | 12–24 months (accredited surgical tech program) | Yes in many states (NBSTSA or NCCT certification) |
| Optician | $67,210 | 9–24 months (apprenticeship or associate) | Yes in many states (state license or ABO-NCLE) |
| Medical Billing & Coding Specialist | $60,350 | 9–24 months (certificate or associate) | Optional (CPC, CCA, or CBCS) |
| Medical Office Administrator | $50,290 | 9–18 months (certificate or associate) | Optional (CMAA or CEHRS certification) |
| Occupational Therapy Assistant | $75,040 | 2 years (accredited associate degree) | Yes (state license via NBCOT exam) |
| Physical Therapy Aide | $37,440 | 3–12 months (certificate or employer training) | Optional (on-the-job + certificate programs) |
| Massage Therapist | $63,390 | 9–18 months (state-approved school) | Yes (state license) |
| Personal Trainer | $64,620 | 3–6 months (exam prep + practicum) | Yes (national certification required by many employers) |
| Dog Trainer | $43,580 | 6–12 months (mentorship or certificate) | Optional (industry certifications preferred) |
| Veterinary Assistant | $46,670 | 6–12 months (certificate + hands-on experience) | Optional (AVMA-approved assistant credential) |
| Veterinary Technician | $49,540 | 2 years (associate degree) | Yes (VTNE and state license) |
| Beauty Professional | $37,290 | 9–15 months (state-approved school) | Yes (state cosmetology license) |
| Cosmetologist | $37,290 | 9–18 months (state-approved school) | Yes (state cosmetology license) |
| Esthetician | $47,310 | 4–9 months (state-approved program) | Yes (state esthetics license) |
| Culinary Chef | $47,961 | 1–2 years (culinary school or apprenticeship) | Optional (ServSafe + local food handler permit) |
| Pastry Chef | $47,961 | 9–18 months (baking & pastry diploma or apprenticeship) | Optional (ServSafe; ACF certification boosts prospects) |
| Bookkeeper | $59,830 | 6–12 months (certificate or on-the-job) | Optional (CB or CPB certification beneficial) |
| Digital Court Reporter | $79,940 | 6–12 months (certificate program) | Optional (AAERT certification preferred) |
| Paralegal | $77,640 | 12–24 months (certificate or associate) | Optional (ABA-approved certificate beneficial) |
Source: BLS OEWS, May 2025. State data (Massachusetts).
Massachusetts Apprenticeships and Schools
Massachusetts offers a robust network of union apprenticeships, vocational high schools, and public trade programs across the state.
| Training Type | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Apprenticeship | 3-5 years | Paid, hands-on training tied to state-licensed trades and unions |
| Vocational Schools | 6-24 months | Offered at technical high schools and regional vocational institutes |
| Community Colleges | 12-24 months | Certificate and associate degree programs in trades and energy fields |
“Apprenticeships combine paid work with classroom instruction, offering a debt-free path to a career.” - MassHire Workforce Board2
Trade Schools in Massachusetts
Massachusetts has more than 40 vocational-technical high schools, plus trade programs at public and private colleges across the state.
Why Attend Trade School in Massachusetts?
| Advantage | What It Means for You |
|---|---|
| High Regional Wages | Trades pay well above national averages in MA |
| Clean Energy Growth | Solar, offshore wind, and energy efficiency training funded |
| Job Security | Strong employer demand across industries |
| Urban & Regional Access | Training centers across all regions of the state |
| Workforce Support | Ask schools about available payment options |
Explore Accredited Schools
Massachusetts Licensing Agencies
| Trade | Licensing Agency |
|---|---|
| Electrician | Board of State Examiners of Electricians |
| Plumber | Board of Examiners of Plumbers and Gas Fitters |
| HVAC Technician | Sheet Metal and Refrigeration Licensing via Division of Occupational Licensure |
| Solar Installer | May require electrical license if installing wiring |
| Mold Inspector | No state license; ACAC or NORMI certification recommended |
Massachusetts Trade Career Outlook
Building & Construction Trades
| Trade | Job Growth (2024-2034, US) |
|---|---|
| Plumber | 4.5% |
| Flooring Installer | 9.5% |
| Carpenter | 4.5% |
| Construction Worker | 7.3% |
| Welder | 2.2% |
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% |
| Electrician | 9.5% |
| HVAC Technician | 8.1% |
| Wind Turbine Technician | 49.9% |
| Tower Technician | 8.6% |
| Solar Installer | 42.1% |
Mechanical, Automotive & Transportation
| Trade | Job Growth (2024-2034, US) |
|---|---|
| Aircraft Mechanic (A&P) | 4.0% |
| Heavy Equipment Operator | 3.6% |
| Diesel Technician | 2.4% |
| CNC Machinist | 0.0% |
| Truck Driver (CDL) | 4.0% |
| Gunsmith | 2.0% |
| 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% |
| Mental Health Technician | 20.0% |
| Medical Assistant | 12.5% |
| 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% |
| Phlebotomy Technician | 5.6% |
| Pharmacy Technician | 6.4% |
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% |
| Personal Trainer | 11.9% |
| Massage Therapist | 15.4% |
| 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) |
|---|---|
| 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 Massachusetts?
Massachusetts is one of the top states for launching a career in the trades. Whether you’re focused on clean energy, construction, or skilled mechanical work, there are funded training programs and strong wage opportunities across the state.
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
MA Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development - https://www.mass.gov/orgs/executive-office-of-labor-and-workforce-development ↩︎
MassHire Apprenticeship Programs - https://www.mass.gov/service-details/masshire-apprenticeship-programs ↩︎