Trade Careers in Ohio
Updated August 14, 2025 | Brad Fishbein
Ohio's skilled trades are essential to its manufacturing, energy, logistics, and infrastructure sectors. From Cleveland to Columbus and Cincinnati, the Buckeye State is experiencing growing demand for well-trained workers who can power the state's economic engine.
Whether you're just graduating or pivoting careers, here's how to start your skilled trade journey in Ohio.
🔧 Why Trade Careers Are Growing in Ohio
| Benefit | Details |
|---|---|
| Industrial Economy | Ohio is a leader in automotive, steel, and advanced manufacturing |
| Infrastructure Investment | State and federal funding are driving major projects |
| Workforce Initiatives | TechCred, WIOA, and OhioMeansJobs support career training |
| Accessible Education | Community colleges, unions, and training centers offer pathways statewide |
“Ohio's economy depends on skilled trades to keep its industries running.” - Ohio Department of Job and Family Services1
⚖️ Compare Skilled Trades in Ohio
| Trade | Avg. Salary2 | Training Time | License Required? | Learn More |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Electrician | $61,450 | 4-5 years | ✅ Yes | Electrician Guide |
| HVAC Technician | $54,710 | 6-24 months | ✅ Yes | HVAC Guide |
| Plumber | $62,010 | 4-5 years | ✅ Yes | Plumber Guide |
| Welder | $50,150 | 6-18 months | ❌ Optional (certs) | Welder Guide |
| Solar Installer | $49,320 | 3-12 months | ❌ Optional (some NABCEP) | Solar Guide |
| Carpenter | $51,140 | 6-24 months | ❌ No | Carpenter Guide |
| Mold Inspector | $51,900 | 1-6 months | ❌ No (Voluntary cert) | Mold Guide |
🧰 Ohio Apprenticeships & Schools
Ohio offers a strong mix of union apprenticeships and public workforce programs through community colleges and career-technical centers.
| Training Type | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Apprenticeship | 3-5 years | Paid, hands-on experience; many linked to trade unions |
| Career Tech Centers | 6-24 months | Hands-on certificate and diploma programs in skilled trades |
| Community Colleges | 12-24 months | Associate degrees in HVAC, construction, and related fields |
“Ohio's community colleges provide cost-effective, career-focused training for in-demand fields.” - Ohio Association of Community Colleges3
🏫 Trade Schools in Ohio
Ohio is home to over 50 public career and technical education (CTE) centers, plus community colleges and private trade schools with strong industry ties.
🎓 Tip: Many programs are eligible for funding through TechCred or OhioMeansJobs.
Why Attend Trade School in Ohio?
| Advantage | What It Means for You |
|---|---|
| State-Funded Training | TechCred and WIOA grants cover in-demand credentials |
| Employer Connections | Many schools partner with local businesses for hiring |
| Strong Job Placement | High employment rates in skilled trades |
| Urban & Rural Access | Career centers and colleges across Ohio |
| Flexible Schedules | Evening, weekend, and accelerated options |
Explore Accredited Schools
🏛️ Ohio Licensing Agencies
| Trade | Licensing Agency |
|---|---|
| Electrician | Ohio Construction Industry Licensing Board (OCILB) |
| Plumber | Regulated by the OCILB; some cities require additional registration |
| HVAC Technician | Licensed by OCILB for commercial work |
| Solar Installer | Electrical license may be required for system integration |
| Mold Inspector | No state license; ACAC and NORMI certification recommended |
📈 Ohio Trade Career Outlook
| Trade | Median Salary2 | Projected Growth |
|---|---|---|
| Electrician | $61,450 | 6% |
| HVAC Technician | $54,710 | 8% |
| Plumber | $62,010 | 5% |
| Welder | $50,150 | 3% |
| Solar Installer | $49,320 | 16% |
| Carpenter | $51,140 | 1% |
| Mold Inspector | $51,900 | 6% |
✅ Ready to Start a Trade Career in Ohio?
With high-paying opportunities, accessible training, and strong employer demand, Ohio is a great place to build a future in the skilled trades. Whether you're entering the workforce or re-skilling, now is the time to get started.
📚 Citations
-
Ohio Department of Job and Family Services - https://jfs.ohio.gov ↩
-
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics - Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OH): https://www.bls.gov/oes ↩ ↩
-
Ohio Association of Community Colleges - https://ohiocommunitycolleges.org ↩
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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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