Trade Careers in Oklahoma
Quick answer: In Oklahoma, elevator mechanics earn a median of about $105,430 and electricians about $61,010 (BLS, May 2025), with lineworkers and aircraft mechanics also among the top earners. Most trades are entered through an apprenticeship or a CareerTech or community college program, and many take two years or less. Licensing is handled by the state agencies listed below, such as the Oklahoma Construction Industries Board for electricians, plumbers, and HVAC technicians.
Oklahoma’s skilled trades are the backbone of its energy, construction, and manufacturing sectors. From Tulsa to Oklahoma City and rural regions, trade workers are in high demand, and the state is investing in training pathways to meet the need.
Whether you’re graduating high school or making a career shift, here’s how to start a rewarding skilled trade career in Oklahoma.
Why Trade Careers Are Growing in Oklahoma
| Benefit | Details |
|---|---|
| Infrastructure Demand | Roads, bridges, and schools need upgrades across urban and rural areas |
| Energy Sector | Oil, gas, wind, and solar all rely on skilled labor |
| Affordable Training | CareerTech centers and community colleges keep costs low |
“Skilled trades are critical to Oklahoma’s economy, from pipelines to power grids.” Oklahoma Works1
Compare Skilled Trades in Oklahoma
| Trade | Median Salary | Training Time | License Required? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carpenter | $46,910 | 6 months – 4 years (trade school or apprenticeship) | Optional (apprenticeship recommended) |
| Construction Worker | $39,360 | 3–12 months (apprenticeship or on-the-job) | Varies (OSHA 10/30; state contractor license for supervisors) |
| Flooring Installer | $38,030 | 6–12 months (on-the-job + coursework) | Optional (apprenticeship recommended) |
| Plumber | $57,970 | 4–5 years (apprenticeship) | Yes (state licensing) |
| Welder | $49,720 | 6–18 months (trade school or apprenticeship) | Optional (AWS certification preferred) |
| Construction Manager | $100,690 | 2–4 years (degree or field experience) | Varies (contractor license in many states) |
| Home Inspector | $59,280 | 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 | $61,010 | 4–5 years (apprenticeship) | Yes (state licensing) |
| HVAC Technician | $57,560 | 6 months – 2 years (certificate or associate) | Yes (EPA 608 and state licensing) |
| Lineworker | $76,010 | 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 | $55,880 | 3–9 months (tower climbing school + field training) | Yes (OSHA/NRF safety + CPR certifications) |
| Wind Turbine Technician | $59,290 | 1–2 years (associate or technical diploma) | Yes (industry safety certifications) |
| Aircraft Mechanic (A&P) | $74,390 | 18–30 months (Part 147 school or apprenticeship) | Yes (FAA A&P license) |
| Auto Mechanic | $46,560 | 6–12 months (trade school or apprenticeship) | Optional (ASE certifications preferred) |
| Automotive Technician | $46,560 | 9–18 months (advanced diploma or apprenticeship) | Optional (ASE certifications preferred) |
| CNC Machinist | $51,120 | 9–24 months (certificate or apprenticeship) | Optional (NIMS certification beneficial) |
| Diesel Technician | $55,340 | 1–2 years (associate or apprenticeship) | Optional (ASE or OEM certifications) |
| Gunsmith | $60,850 | 6–18 months (certificate or apprenticeship) | Optional (NRA/NSTC credentials beneficial) |
| Heavy Equipment Operator | $47,970 | 6–12 months (trade school or union program) | Optional (CDL required for many roles) |
| Maintenance Technician | $42,750 | 6–12 months (trade school or on-the-job) | Optional (CMRT or OEM certifications) |
| Truck Driver (CDL) | $54,410 | 3–6 months (CDL program) | Yes (CDL Class A or B) |
| Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) | $35,930 | 4–12 weeks (state-approved program) | Yes (state CNA exam) |
| Patient Care Technician | $35,930 | 4–12 months (certificate + clinical hours) | Yes (CNA license + PCT certification in many hospitals) |
| Hemodialysis Technician | $45,330 | 4–12 months (certificate + clinical hours) | Yes (state certification or BONENT/CCHT credential) |
| Home Health Aide | $27,710 | 3–6 months (training + competency exam) | Yes in many states (state-approved HHA program) |
| Medical Assistant | $38,750 | 9–12 months (certificate or diploma) | Optional (CMA, RMA, or CCMA) |
| Mental Health Technician | $39,060 | 6–12 months (certificate + clinical experience) | Varies (state registration + employer training) |
| Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) | $58,320 | 12–18 months (state-approved program) | Yes (state license via NCLEX-PN) |
| Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) | $58,320 | 12–18 months (state-approved program) | Yes (state license via NCLEX-PN) |
| Dental Assistant | $45,740 | 9–18 months (diploma or associate program) | Varies (CDA, RDA, or state license) |
| EKG Technician | $44,900 | 3–9 months (certificate program) | Optional (CET, CCT, or AMCA) |
| Pharmacy Technician | $40,500 | 6–12 months (certificate or on-the-job) | Varies (state license or PTCB/ExCPT) |
| Phlebotomy Technician | $39,030 | 4–6 months (certificate + clinical practice) | Yes in many states (national certification preferred) |
| Radiologic Technologist | $74,160 | 2 years (associate degree) | Yes (ARRT registration + state license) |
| Diagnostic Medical Sonographer | $83,670 | 18–24 months (accredited associate or certificate) | Yes (ARDMS/CCI credential; state license in some areas) |
| Sterile Processing Technician | $43,460 | 6–12 months (certificate + clinical hours) | Yes in many states (CRCST or CBSPD certification) |
| Surgical Technologist | $61,190 | 12–24 months (accredited surgical tech program) | Yes in many states (NBSTSA or NCCT certification) |
| Optician | $37,940 | 9–24 months (apprenticeship or associate) | Yes in many states (state license or ABO-NCLE) |
| Medical Billing & Coding Specialist | $53,460 | 9–24 months (certificate or associate) | Optional (CPC, CCA, or CBCS) |
| Medical Office Administrator | $38,330 | 9–18 months (certificate or associate) | Optional (CMAA or CEHRS certification) |
| Occupational Therapy Assistant | $66,520 | 2 years (accredited associate degree) | Yes (state license via NBCOT exam) |
| Physical Therapy Aide | $27,630 | 3–12 months (certificate or employer training) | Optional (on-the-job + certificate programs) |
| Massage Therapist | $36,630 | 9–18 months (state-approved school) | Yes (state license) |
| Personal Trainer | $44,520 | 3–6 months (exam prep + practicum) | Yes (national certification required by many employers) |
| Dog Trainer | $40,310 | 6–12 months (mentorship or certificate) | Optional (industry certifications preferred) |
| Veterinary Assistant | $34,850 | 6–12 months (certificate + hands-on experience) | Optional (AVMA-approved assistant credential) |
| Veterinary Technician | $39,100 | 2 years (associate degree) | Yes (VTNE and state license) |
| Beauty Professional | $29,650 | 9–15 months (state-approved school) | Yes (state cosmetology license) |
| Cosmetologist | $29,650 | 9–18 months (state-approved school) | Yes (state cosmetology license) |
| Esthetician | $37,340 | 4–9 months (state-approved program) | Yes (state esthetics license) |
| Culinary Chef | $33,569 | 1–2 years (culinary school or apprenticeship) | Optional (ServSafe + local food handler permit) |
| Pastry Chef | $33,569 | 9–18 months (baking & pastry diploma or apprenticeship) | Optional (ServSafe; ACF certification boosts prospects) |
| Bookkeeper | $46,180 | 6–12 months (certificate or on-the-job) | Optional (CB or CPB certification beneficial) |
| Digital Court Reporter | $60,800 | 6–12 months (certificate program) | Optional (AAERT certification preferred) |
| Paralegal | $53,170 | 12–24 months (certificate or associate) | Optional (ABA-approved certificate beneficial) |
Source: BLS OEWS, May 2025. State data (Oklahoma).
Oklahoma Apprenticeships and Schools
Oklahoma offers union and non-union apprenticeships along with a statewide network of CareerTech centers and workforce training programs.
| Training Type | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Apprenticeship | 3-5 years | Paid, hands-on learning; often sponsored by local unions |
| CareerTech Centers | 6-24 months | Trade programs in electrical, HVAC, welding, and more |
| Community College | 12-24 months | Associate degree and certificate options |
“Oklahoma’s CareerTech system provides pathways to high-wage, high-demand jobs.” Oklahoma CareerTech2
Trade Schools in Oklahoma
From Tulsa Tech to Francis Tuttle and regional colleges, Oklahoma’s technical education system is among the most accessible in the U.S.
Why Attend Trade School in Oklahoma?
| Advantage | What It Means for You |
|---|---|
| Low-Cost Training | CareerTech and workforce programs can reduce tuition costs |
| Fast Certification | Finish in as little as 6-12 months |
| High outcomes data | Strong job pipelines in construction, energy, and healthcare |
| Local Access | CareerTech campuses across the state |
| Industry-Ready Skills | Programs designed with employer input |
Explore Accredited Schools
Oklahoma Licensing Agencies
| Trade | Licensing Agency |
|---|---|
| Electrician | Oklahoma Construction Industries Board |
| Plumber | Oklahoma Construction Industries Board - Plumbing |
| HVAC Technician | CIB - Mechanical Licensing |
| Solar Installer | May require electrical license depending on scope |
| Mold Inspector | No state license required; voluntary certs recommended (ACAC, NORMI) |
Oklahoma Trade Career Outlook
Building & Construction Trades
| Trade | Job Growth (2024-2034, US) |
|---|---|
| Plumber | 4.5% |
| Welder | 2.2% |
| Carpenter | 4.5% |
| Construction Worker | 7.3% |
| Flooring Installer | 9.5% |
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% |
| 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% |
| Truck Driver (CDL) | 4.0% |
| CNC Machinist | 0.0% |
| 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% |
| 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% |
| Radiologic Technologist | 4.3% |
| Surgical Technologist | 4.5% |
| Dental Assistant | 6.4% |
| EKG Technician | 3.0% |
| Sterile Processing Technician | 10.0% |
| Pharmacy Technician | 6.4% |
| Phlebotomy Technician | 5.6% |
| 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% |
| Personal Trainer | 11.9% |
| Massage Therapist | 15.4% |
| Physical Therapy Aide | 2.8% |
Animal Care & Training
| Trade | Job Growth (2024-2034, US) |
|---|---|
| Dog Trainer | 5.1% |
| Veterinary Technician | 9.1% |
| 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 Oklahoma?
From CareerTech to union apprenticeships, Oklahoma offers clear paths into the skilled trades. Pick your trade and get to work.
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
Oklahoma Works - Workforce Development: https://oklahomaworks.gov ↩︎
Oklahoma CareerTech - https://www.okcareertech.org ↩︎