Trade Careers in North Carolina
Quick answer: In North Carolina, elevator mechanics earn a median of $107,700 and electrical line workers $77,270 (BLS, May 2025), with everyday trades like HVAC ($57,260) and electricians ($56,800) close behind. Most trades are entered through an apprenticeship or a community college trade-school program that takes two years or less. Licensing is handled by the state agencies listed below, such as the NC electrical and plumbing boards.
North Carolina’s skilled trades are the foundation of its construction, transportation, manufacturing, and energy sectors. From the Research Triangle to the coast and Appalachians, trade workers are in high demand across urban and rural areas.
Whether you’re graduating high school or starting a new path, here’s how to begin a rewarding trade career in North Carolina.
Why Trade Careers Are Growing in North Carolina
| Benefit | Details |
|---|---|
| Diverse Industries | Growth in tech, manufacturing, and clean energy sectors |
| Major Infrastructure Projects | New highways, housing, and energy systems create high labor demand |
| Accessible Education | Dozens of technical colleges and training centers across the state |
“North Carolina’s economic strength depends on skilled workers.” - NC Department of Commerce1
Compare Skilled Trades in North Carolina
| Trade | Median Salary | Training Time | License Required? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carpenter | $49,100 | 6 months – 4 years (trade school or apprenticeship) | Optional (apprenticeship recommended) |
| Construction Worker | $44,720 | 3–12 months (apprenticeship or on-the-job) | Varies (OSHA 10/30; state contractor license for supervisors) |
| Flooring Installer | $48,199 | 6–12 months (on-the-job + coursework) | Optional (apprenticeship recommended) |
| Plumber | $57,080 | 4–5 years (apprenticeship) | Yes (state licensing) |
| Welder | $50,590 | 6–18 months (trade school or apprenticeship) | Optional (AWS certification preferred) |
| Construction Manager | $106,640 | 2–4 years (degree or field experience) | Varies (contractor license in many states) |
| Home Inspector | $66,080 | 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 | $56,800 | 4–5 years (apprenticeship) | Yes (state licensing) |
| HVAC Technician | $57,260 | 6 months – 2 years (certificate or associate) | Yes (EPA 608 and state licensing) |
| Lineworker | $77,270 | 3–4 years (joint apprenticeship) | Yes (apprenticeship + utility certifications) |
| Solar Installer | $43,860 | 3–12 months (bootcamp or apprenticeship) | Optional (NABCEP certification beneficial) |
| Tower Technician | $47,040 | 3–9 months (tower climbing school + field training) | Yes (OSHA/NRF safety + CPR certifications) |
| Wind Turbine Technician | $66,380 | 1–2 years (associate or technical diploma) | Yes (industry safety certifications) |
| Aircraft Mechanic (A&P) | $76,980 | 18–30 months (Part 147 school or apprenticeship) | Yes (FAA A&P license) |
| Auto Mechanic | $48,200 | 6–12 months (trade school or apprenticeship) | Optional (ASE certifications preferred) |
| Automotive Technician | $48,200 | 9–18 months (advanced diploma or apprenticeship) | Optional (ASE certifications preferred) |
| CNC Machinist | $55,230 | 9–24 months (certificate or apprenticeship) | Optional (NIMS certification beneficial) |
| Diesel Technician | $57,490 | 1–2 years (associate or apprenticeship) | Optional (ASE or OEM certifications) |
| Gunsmith | $61,070 | 6–18 months (certificate or apprenticeship) | Optional (NRA/NSTC credentials beneficial) |
| Heavy Equipment Operator | $49,310 | 6–12 months (trade school or union program) | Optional (CDL required for many roles) |
| Maintenance Technician | $47,910 | 6–12 months (trade school or on-the-job) | Optional (CMRT or OEM certifications) |
| Truck Driver (CDL) | $51,530 | 3–6 months (CDL program) | Yes (CDL Class A or B) |
| Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) | $38,460 | 4–12 weeks (state-approved program) | Yes (state CNA exam) |
| Patient Care Technician | $38,460 | 4–12 months (certificate + clinical hours) | Yes (CNA license + PCT certification in many hospitals) |
| Hemodialysis Technician | $46,480 | 4–12 months (certificate + clinical hours) | Yes (state certification or BONENT/CCHT credential) |
| Home Health Aide | $31,240 | 3–6 months (training + competency exam) | Yes in many states (state-approved HHA program) |
| Medical Assistant | $45,140 | 9–12 months (certificate or diploma) | Optional (CMA, RMA, or CCMA) |
| Mental Health Technician | $40,630 | 6–12 months (certificate + clinical experience) | Varies (state registration + employer training) |
| Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) | $63,270 | 12–18 months (state-approved program) | Yes (state license via NCLEX-PN) |
| Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) | $63,270 | 12–18 months (state-approved program) | Yes (state license via NCLEX-PN) |
| Dental Assistant | $50,380 | 9–18 months (diploma or associate program) | Varies (CDA, RDA, or state license) |
| EKG Technician | $55,460 | 3–9 months (certificate program) | Optional (CET, CCT, or AMCA) |
| Pharmacy Technician | $44,530 | 6–12 months (certificate or on-the-job) | Varies (state license or PTCB/ExCPT) |
| Phlebotomy Technician | $43,330 | 4–6 months (certificate + clinical practice) | Yes in many states (national certification preferred) |
| Radiologic Technologist | $74,450 | 2 years (associate degree) | Yes (ARRT registration + state license) |
| Diagnostic Medical Sonographer | $86,010 | 18–24 months (accredited associate or certificate) | Yes (ARDMS/CCI credential; state license in some areas) |
| Sterile Processing Technician | $45,130 | 6–12 months (certificate + clinical hours) | Yes in many states (CRCST or CBSPD certification) |
| Surgical Technologist | $60,920 | 12–24 months (accredited surgical tech program) | Yes in many states (NBSTSA or NCCT certification) |
| Optician | $50,190 | 9–24 months (apprenticeship or associate) | Yes in many states (state license or ABO-NCLE) |
| Medical Billing & Coding Specialist | $49,620 | 9–24 months (certificate or associate) | Optional (CPC, CCA, or CBCS) |
| Medical Office Administrator | $44,190 | 9–18 months (certificate or associate) | Optional (CMAA or CEHRS certification) |
| Occupational Therapy Assistant | $69,390 | 2 years (accredited associate degree) | Yes (state license via NBCOT exam) |
| Physical Therapy Aide | $34,760 | 3–12 months (certificate or employer training) | Optional (on-the-job + certificate programs) |
| Massage Therapist | $60,650 | 9–18 months (state-approved school) | Yes (state license) |
| Personal Trainer | $46,450 | 3–6 months (exam prep + practicum) | Yes (national certification required by many employers) |
| Dog Trainer | $37,680 | 6–12 months (mentorship or certificate) | Optional (industry certifications preferred) |
| Veterinary Assistant | $37,070 | 6–12 months (certificate + hands-on experience) | Optional (AVMA-approved assistant credential) |
| Veterinary Technician | $47,620 | 2 years (associate degree) | Yes (VTNE and state license) |
| Beauty Professional | $38,410 | 9–15 months (state-approved school) | Yes (state cosmetology license) |
| Cosmetologist | $38,410 | 9–18 months (state-approved school) | Yes (state cosmetology license) |
| Esthetician | $39,120 | 4–9 months (state-approved program) | Yes (state esthetics license) |
| Culinary Chef | $37,237 | 1–2 years (culinary school or apprenticeship) | Optional (ServSafe + local food handler permit) |
| Pastry Chef | $37,237 | 9–18 months (baking & pastry diploma or apprenticeship) | Optional (ServSafe; ACF certification boosts prospects) |
| Bookkeeper | $47,930 | 6–12 months (certificate or on-the-job) | Optional (CB or CPB certification beneficial) |
| Digital Court Reporter | $73,510 | 6–12 months (certificate program) | Optional (AAERT certification preferred) |
| Paralegal | $57,500 | 12–24 months (certificate or associate) | Optional (ABA-approved certificate beneficial) |
Source: BLS OEWS, May 2025. State data (North Carolina).
North Carolina Apprenticeships & Schools
North Carolina has a strong network of apprenticeships and community colleges offering hands-on training and fast pathways to employment.
| Training Type | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Apprenticeship | 3-5 years | Earn while you learn through union and employer-based programs |
| Career & Technical Education | 6-24 months | Offered by public high schools and technical institutes |
| Community Colleges | 12-24 months | Associate degrees and diplomas in HVAC, plumbing, welding, and more |
“The NC Community College System fuels economic growth by preparing workers for high-demand careers.” - NC Community Colleges2
Trade Schools in North Carolina
With over 50 community colleges and many private trade schools, North Carolina offers trade training in every corner of the state, from Asheville to Wilmington.
Why Attend Trade School in North Carolina?
| Advantage | What It Means for You |
|---|---|
| Affordable Tuition | Many programs cost less than traditional college |
| Workforce-Aligned | Programs designed to match employer needs |
| Employer Demand | Employers actively recruit from trade programs |
| Statewide Availability | Dozens of campuses and satellite centers statewide |
| Flexible Scheduling | Evening, weekend, and hybrid formats |
Explore Accredited Schools
North Carolina Licensing Agencies
| Trade | Licensing Agency |
|---|---|
| Electrician | NC State Board of Examiners of Electrical Contractors |
| Plumber | NC State Board of Examiners of Plumbing, Heating & Fire Sprinkler Contractors |
| HVAC Technician | Licensed through the same board as plumbers (PHFSC Board) |
| Solar Installer | May require an electrical license depending on system wiring |
| Mold Inspector | No state license; voluntary certification via ACAC or NORMI |
North Carolina Trade Career Outlook
Building & Construction Trades
| Trade | Job Growth (2024-2034, US) |
|---|---|
| Plumber | 4.5% |
| Welder | 2.2% |
| Carpenter | 4.5% |
| 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% |
| Wind Turbine Technician | 49.9% |
| HVAC Technician | 8.1% |
| Electrician | 9.5% |
| Tower Technician | 8.6% |
| Solar Installer | 42.1% |
Mechanical, Automotive & Transportation
| Trade | Job Growth (2024-2034, US) |
|---|---|
| Aircraft Mechanic (A&P) | 4.0% |
| Gunsmith | 2.0% |
| Diesel Technician | 2.4% |
| CNC Machinist | 0.0% |
| Truck Driver (CDL) | 4.0% |
| Heavy Equipment Operator | 3.6% |
| 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% |
| Radiologic Technologist | 4.3% |
| Surgical Technologist | 4.5% |
| EKG Technician | 3.0% |
| Dental Assistant | 6.4% |
| Optician | 2.9% |
| Sterile Processing Technician | 10.0% |
| 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% |
| Dog Trainer | 5.1% |
| Veterinary Assistant | 8.7% |
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 North Carolina?
Skilled trades are a smart choice in North Carolina. Whether you’re looking for a hands-on career, a steady paycheck, or a fresh start, there are dozens of affordable training paths across the state to help you succeed.
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
NC Department of Commerce - https://www.commerce.nc.gov ↩︎
North Carolina Community College System - https://www.nccommunitycolleges.edu ↩︎