Trade Careers in Missouri
Quick answer: In Missouri, elevator mechanics earn a median of $126,750 and electrical line workers $96,360 (BLS, May 2025), making them two of the highest-paying trades in the state. Most trades are entered through a registered apprenticeship or a trade-school program, with classroom training plus paid on-the-job hours. Licensing is handled at the local level by the city and county agencies listed further down this page.
Missouri’s skilled trades power the state’s manufacturing, construction, agriculture, and energy sectors. From Kansas City and St. Louis to Springfield and Columbia, trade workers are in high demand across the state.
Whether you’re fresh out of high school or looking to change careers, here’s how to start a stable, high-paying skilled trade career in Missouri.
Why Trade Careers Are Growing in Missouri
| Benefit | Details |
|---|---|
| Aging Infrastructure | Roads, bridges, and utilities need modernization |
| Central U.S. Location | Major logistics, transportation, and construction growth |
| State Training Incentives | Programs like Fast Track Workforce Grant help adults train affordably |
| Strong Apprenticeship Network | Missouri is home to hundreds of registered apprenticeship programs |
“Skilled workers are essential to building Missouri’s economy from the ground up.” - Missouri Department of Higher Education & Workforce Development1
Compare Skilled Trades in Missouri
| Trade | Median Salary | Training Time | License Required? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carpenter | $60,840 | 6 months – 4 years (trade school or apprenticeship) | Optional (apprenticeship recommended) |
| Construction Worker | $56,730 | 3–12 months (apprenticeship or on-the-job) | Varies (OSHA 10/30; state contractor license for supervisors) |
| Flooring Installer | $54,710 | 6–12 months (on-the-job + coursework) | Optional (apprenticeship recommended) |
| Plumber | $66,790 | 4–5 years (apprenticeship) | Yes (state licensing) |
| Welder | $51,950 | 6–18 months (trade school or apprenticeship) | Optional (AWS certification preferred) |
| Construction Manager | $112,230 | 2–4 years (degree or field experience) | Varies (contractor license in many states) |
| Home Inspector | $62,970 | 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 | $65,410 | 4–5 years (apprenticeship) | Yes (state licensing) |
| HVAC Technician | $59,950 | 6 months – 2 years (certificate or associate) | Yes (EPA 608 and state licensing) |
| Lineworker | $96,360 | 3–4 years (joint apprenticeship) | Yes (apprenticeship + utility certifications) |
| Solar Installer | N/A | 3–12 months (bootcamp or apprenticeship) | Optional (NABCEP certification beneficial) |
| Tower Technician | $52,450 | 3–9 months (tower climbing school + field training) | Yes (OSHA/NRF safety + CPR certifications) |
| Wind Turbine Technician | $65,230 | 1–2 years (associate or technical diploma) | Yes (industry safety certifications) |
| Aircraft Mechanic (A&P) | $71,470 | 18–30 months (Part 147 school or apprenticeship) | Yes (FAA A&P license) |
| Auto Mechanic | $49,160 | 6–12 months (trade school or apprenticeship) | Optional (ASE certifications preferred) |
| Automotive Technician | $49,160 | 9–18 months (advanced diploma or apprenticeship) | Optional (ASE certifications preferred) |
| CNC Machinist | $58,710 | 9–24 months (certificate or apprenticeship) | Optional (NIMS certification beneficial) |
| Diesel Technician | $59,360 | 1–2 years (associate or apprenticeship) | Optional (ASE or OEM certifications) |
| Gunsmith | $81,330 | 6–18 months (certificate or apprenticeship) | Optional (NRA/NSTC credentials beneficial) |
| Heavy Equipment Operator | $60,540 | 6–12 months (trade school or union program) | Optional (CDL required for many roles) |
| Maintenance Technician | $48,370 | 6–12 months (trade school or on-the-job) | Optional (CMRT or OEM certifications) |
| Truck Driver (CDL) | $54,550 | 3–6 months (CDL program) | Yes (CDL Class A or B) |
| Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) | $37,680 | 4–12 weeks (state-approved program) | Yes (state CNA exam) |
| Patient Care Technician | $37,680 | 4–12 months (certificate + clinical hours) | Yes (CNA license + PCT certification in many hospitals) |
| Hemodialysis Technician | $46,040 | 4–12 months (certificate + clinical hours) | Yes (state certification or BONENT/CCHT credential) |
| Home Health Aide | $33,080 | 3–6 months (training + competency exam) | Yes in many states (state-approved HHA program) |
| Medical Assistant | $40,440 | 9–12 months (certificate or diploma) | Optional (CMA, RMA, or CCMA) |
| Mental Health Technician | $45,840 | 6–12 months (certificate + clinical experience) | Varies (state registration + employer training) |
| Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) | $61,530 | 12–18 months (state-approved program) | Yes (state license via NCLEX-PN) |
| Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) | $61,530 | 12–18 months (state-approved program) | Yes (state license via NCLEX-PN) |
| Dental Assistant | $45,970 | 9–18 months (diploma or associate program) | Varies (CDA, RDA, or state license) |
| EKG Technician | $73,680 | 3–9 months (certificate program) | Optional (CET, CCT, or AMCA) |
| Pharmacy Technician | $40,100 | 6–12 months (certificate or on-the-job) | Varies (state license or PTCB/ExCPT) |
| Phlebotomy Technician | $43,120 | 4–6 months (certificate + clinical practice) | Yes in many states (national certification preferred) |
| Radiologic Technologist | $73,080 | 2 years (associate degree) | Yes (ARRT registration + state license) |
| Diagnostic Medical Sonographer | $100,130 | 18–24 months (accredited associate or certificate) | Yes (ARDMS/CCI credential; state license in some areas) |
| Sterile Processing Technician | $43,480 | 6–12 months (certificate + clinical hours) | Yes in many states (CRCST or CBSPD certification) |
| Surgical Technologist | $61,120 | 12–24 months (accredited surgical tech program) | Yes in many states (NBSTSA or NCCT certification) |
| Optician | $38,750 | 9–24 months (apprenticeship or associate) | Yes in many states (state license or ABO-NCLE) |
| Medical Billing & Coding Specialist | $50,750 | 9–24 months (certificate or associate) | Optional (CPC, CCA, or CBCS) |
| Medical Office Administrator | $43,980 | 9–18 months (certificate or associate) | Optional (CMAA or CEHRS certification) |
| Occupational Therapy Assistant | $66,070 | 2 years (accredited associate degree) | Yes (state license via NBCOT exam) |
| Physical Therapy Aide | $29,250 | 3–12 months (certificate or employer training) | Optional (on-the-job + certificate programs) |
| Massage Therapist | $62,050 | 9–18 months (state-approved school) | Yes (state license) |
| Personal Trainer | $36,450 | 3–6 months (exam prep + practicum) | Yes (national certification required by many employers) |
| Dog Trainer | $34,010 | 6–12 months (mentorship or certificate) | Optional (industry certifications preferred) |
| Veterinary Assistant | $36,660 | 6–12 months (certificate + hands-on experience) | Optional (AVMA-approved assistant credential) |
| Veterinary Technician | $43,520 | 2 years (associate degree) | Yes (VTNE and state license) |
| Beauty Professional | $30,750 | 9–15 months (state-approved school) | Yes (state cosmetology license) |
| Cosmetologist | $30,750 | 9–18 months (state-approved school) | Yes (state cosmetology license) |
| Esthetician | $45,200 | 4–9 months (state-approved program) | Yes (state esthetics license) |
| Culinary Chef | $38,212 | 1–2 years (culinary school or apprenticeship) | Optional (ServSafe + local food handler permit) |
| Pastry Chef | $38,212 | 9–18 months (baking & pastry diploma or apprenticeship) | Optional (ServSafe; ACF certification boosts prospects) |
| Bookkeeper | $47,990 | 6–12 months (certificate or on-the-job) | Optional (CB or CPB certification beneficial) |
| Digital Court Reporter | $72,500 | 6–12 months (certificate program) | Optional (AAERT certification preferred) |
| Paralegal | $61,410 | 12–24 months (certificate or associate) | Optional (ABA-approved certificate beneficial) |
Source: BLS OEWS, May 2025. State data (Missouri).
Missouri Apprenticeships and Schools
Missouri offers a wide range of union and non-union apprenticeships, vocational schools, and community college trade programs.
| Training Type | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Apprenticeship | 3-5 years | Paid, on-the-job training through employers or union halls |
| Area Career Centers | 6-24 months | Technical training at public high schools and postsecondary programs |
| Community Colleges | 12-24 months | Associate degrees or certifications in HVAC, construction, and more |
“Registered apprenticeships are a proven path to careers that don’t require student debt.” - Apprenticeship Missouri2
Trade Schools in Missouri
Missouri has over 50 career centers, technical colleges, and public institutions offering affordable trade training in every region of the state.
Why Attend Trade School in Missouri?
| Advantage | What It Means for You |
|---|---|
| Low Tuition & Funding | Many programs are under $5,000 and offer flexible payment options |
| Employer Demand | Shortages of skilled tradespeople in key regions |
| Strong outcomes data | Many programs lead to employment; results vary by region and job market |
| Regional Access | Training programs available in both metro and rural areas |
| Learn While You Earn | Apprenticeship and co-op opportunities statewide |
Explore Accredited Schools
Missouri Licensing Agencies
| Trade | Licensing Agency |
|---|---|
| Electrician | Licensed locally (e.g. St. Louis County, Kansas City); no statewide license |
| Plumber | City/county-level licensing; varies by municipality |
| HVAC Technician | Local jurisdiction licensing (e.g. Jefferson County, Springfield) |
| Solar Installer | May require electrical license in some jurisdictions |
| Mold Inspector | No state license; ACAC or NORMI certification recommended |
Missouri Trade Career Outlook
Building & Construction Trades
| Trade | Job Growth (2024-2034, US) |
|---|---|
| Plumber | 4.5% |
| Carpenter | 4.5% |
| Construction Worker | 7.3% |
| Flooring Installer | 9.5% |
| 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% |
| Wind Turbine Technician | 49.9% |
| HVAC Technician | 8.1% |
| Solar Installer | 42.1% |
| Tower Technician | 8.6% |
Mechanical, Automotive & Transportation
| Trade | Job Growth (2024-2034, US) |
|---|---|
| Gunsmith | 2.0% |
| Aircraft Mechanic (A&P) | 4.0% |
| Heavy Equipment Operator | 3.6% |
| Diesel Technician | 2.4% |
| 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% |
| 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% |
| Dental Assistant | 6.4% |
| Sterile Processing Technician | 10.0% |
| Phlebotomy Technician | 5.6% |
| Pharmacy Technician | 6.4% |
| Optician | 2.9% |
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) |
|---|---|
| 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 Missouri?
Missouri’s economy is built by skilled hands. Whether you’re looking to work in construction, energy, or mechanical trades, the state offers affordable training and strong job opportunities to launch your career.
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
MO Department of Higher Education & Workforce Development - https://dhewd.mo.gov ↩︎
Apprenticeship Missouri - https://jobs.mo.gov/community/apprenticeship ↩︎