Trade Careers in Pennsylvania
Quick answer: In Pennsylvania, elevator mechanics earn a median of about $117,250 and electrical power line workers about $106,230 (BLS, May 2025), making them two of the state’s highest-paying trades. Most trades are entered through a registered apprenticeship or a trade-school program, often with just a high school diploma or GED. Licensing is handled by the state and local agencies listed further down this page.
Pennsylvania’s skilled trades are fueling the future of construction, energy, transportation, and healthcare. From Philadelphia to Pittsburgh and everywhere in between, there’s a rising demand for trained workers who can build, repair, and power the state’s economy.
Whether you’re graduating high school or switching careers, here’s how to start a skilled trade career in Pennsylvania.
Why Trade Careers Are Growing in Pennsylvania
| Benefit | Details |
|---|---|
| Infrastructure Funding | Billions invested in roads, bridges, schools, and water systems |
| Industrial Workforce | Manufacturing, energy, and logistics drive ongoing trade demand |
| Statewide Training | CTCs, unions, and community colleges offer hands-on programs |
“Skilled workers are the backbone of Pennsylvania’s economy.” Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry1
Compare Skilled Trades in Pennsylvania
| Trade | Median Salary | Training Time | License Required? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carpenter | $59,370 | 6 months – 4 years (trade school or apprenticeship) | Optional (apprenticeship recommended) |
| Construction Worker | $49,400 | 3–12 months (apprenticeship or on-the-job) | Varies (OSHA 10/30; state contractor license for supervisors) |
| Flooring Installer | $59,466 | 6–12 months (on-the-job + coursework) | Optional (apprenticeship recommended) |
| Plumber | $68,080 | 4–5 years (apprenticeship) | Yes (state licensing) |
| Welder | $52,900 | 6–18 months (trade school or apprenticeship) | Optional (AWS certification preferred) |
| Construction Manager | $108,250 | 2–4 years (degree or field experience) | Varies (contractor license in many states) |
| Home Inspector | $65,870 | 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 | $67,600 | 4–5 years (apprenticeship) | Yes (state licensing) |
| HVAC Technician | $62,400 | 6 months – 2 years (certificate or associate) | Yes (EPA 608 and state licensing) |
| Lineworker | $106,230 | 3–4 years (joint apprenticeship) | Yes (apprenticeship + utility certifications) |
| Solar Installer | $47,760 | 3–12 months (bootcamp or apprenticeship) | Optional (NABCEP certification beneficial) |
| Tower Technician | $103,010 | 3–9 months (tower climbing school + field training) | Yes (OSHA/NRF safety + CPR certifications) |
| Wind Turbine Technician | $60,830 | 1–2 years (associate or technical diploma) | Yes (industry safety certifications) |
| Aircraft Mechanic (A&P) | $78,000 | 18–30 months (Part 147 school or apprenticeship) | Yes (FAA A&P license) |
| Auto Mechanic | $49,800 | 6–12 months (trade school or apprenticeship) | Optional (ASE certifications preferred) |
| Automotive Technician | $49,800 | 9–18 months (advanced diploma or apprenticeship) | Optional (ASE certifications preferred) |
| CNC Machinist | $57,810 | 9–24 months (certificate or apprenticeship) | Optional (NIMS certification beneficial) |
| Diesel Technician | $61,740 | 1–2 years (associate or apprenticeship) | Optional (ASE or OEM certifications) |
| Gunsmith | $33,870 | 6–18 months (certificate or apprenticeship) | Optional (NRA/NSTC credentials beneficial) |
| Heavy Equipment Operator | $60,530 | 6–12 months (trade school or union program) | Optional (CDL required for many roles) |
| Maintenance Technician | $49,290 | 6–12 months (trade school or on-the-job) | Optional (CMRT or OEM certifications) |
| Truck Driver (CDL) | $58,580 | 3–6 months (CDL program) | Yes (CDL Class A or B) |
| Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) | $44,590 | 4–12 weeks (state-approved program) | Yes (state CNA exam) |
| Patient Care Technician | $44,590 | 4–12 months (certificate + clinical hours) | Yes (CNA license + PCT certification in many hospitals) |
| Hemodialysis Technician | $46,720 | 4–12 months (certificate + clinical hours) | Yes (state certification or BONENT/CCHT credential) |
| Home Health Aide | $29,420 | 3–6 months (training + competency exam) | Yes in many states (state-approved HHA program) |
| Medical Assistant | $43,920 | 9–12 months (certificate or diploma) | Optional (CMA, RMA, or CCMA) |
| Mental Health Technician | $43,930 | 6–12 months (certificate + clinical experience) | Varies (state registration + employer training) |
| Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) | $63,940 | 12–18 months (state-approved program) | Yes (state license via NCLEX-PN) |
| Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) | $63,940 | 12–18 months (state-approved program) | Yes (state license via NCLEX-PN) |
| Dental Assistant | $47,930 | 9–18 months (diploma or associate program) | Varies (CDA, RDA, or state license) |
| EKG Technician | $58,090 | 3–9 months (certificate program) | Optional (CET, CCT, or AMCA) |
| Pharmacy Technician | $40,040 | 6–12 months (certificate or on-the-job) | Varies (state license or PTCB/ExCPT) |
| Phlebotomy Technician | $43,910 | 4–6 months (certificate + clinical practice) | Yes in many states (national certification preferred) |
| Radiologic Technologist | $76,050 | 2 years (associate degree) | Yes (ARRT registration + state license) |
| Diagnostic Medical Sonographer | $82,710 | 18–24 months (accredited associate or certificate) | Yes (ARDMS/CCI credential; state license in some areas) |
| Sterile Processing Technician | $45,820 | 6–12 months (certificate + clinical hours) | Yes in many states (CRCST or CBSPD certification) |
| Surgical Technologist | $62,680 | 12–24 months (accredited surgical tech program) | Yes in many states (NBSTSA or NCCT certification) |
| Optician | $45,450 | 9–24 months (apprenticeship or associate) | Yes in many states (state license or ABO-NCLE) |
| Medical Billing & Coding Specialist | $46,840 | 9–24 months (certificate or associate) | Optional (CPC, CCA, or CBCS) |
| Medical Office Administrator | $44,930 | 9–18 months (certificate or associate) | Optional (CMAA or CEHRS certification) |
| Occupational Therapy Assistant | $71,590 | 2 years (accredited associate degree) | Yes (state license via NBCOT exam) |
| Physical Therapy Aide | $35,520 | 3–12 months (certificate or employer training) | Optional (on-the-job + certificate programs) |
| Massage Therapist | $58,300 | 9–18 months (state-approved school) | Yes (state license) |
| Personal Trainer | $45,250 | 3–6 months (exam prep + practicum) | Yes (national certification required by many employers) |
| Dog Trainer | $38,920 | 6–12 months (mentorship or certificate) | Optional (industry certifications preferred) |
| Veterinary Assistant | $37,140 | 6–12 months (certificate + hands-on experience) | Optional (AVMA-approved assistant credential) |
| Veterinary Technician | $46,430 | 2 years (associate degree) | Yes (VTNE and state license) |
| Beauty Professional | $36,790 | 9–15 months (state-approved school) | Yes (state cosmetology license) |
| Cosmetologist | $36,790 | 9–18 months (state-approved school) | Yes (state cosmetology license) |
| Esthetician | $43,620 | 4–9 months (state-approved program) | Yes (state esthetics license) |
| Culinary Chef | $39,946 | 1–2 years (culinary school or apprenticeship) | Optional (ServSafe + local food handler permit) |
| Pastry Chef | $39,946 | 9–18 months (baking & pastry diploma or apprenticeship) | Optional (ServSafe; ACF certification boosts prospects) |
| Bookkeeper | $48,440 | 6–12 months (certificate or on-the-job) | Optional (CB or CPB certification beneficial) |
| Digital Court Reporter | $65,100 | 6–12 months (certificate program) | Optional (AAERT certification preferred) |
| Paralegal | $63,370 | 12–24 months (certificate or associate) | Optional (ABA-approved certificate beneficial) |
Source: BLS OEWS, May 2025. State data (Pennsylvania).
Pennsylvania Apprenticeships and Schools
Pennsylvania offers hundreds of registered apprenticeships, union training programs, and career and technical centers (CTCs) across the state.
| Training Type | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Apprenticeship | 3-5 years | Paid training, often union-backed (IBEW, UA, etc.) |
| Career & Technical Centers | 6-24 months | High school and adult programs in the trades |
| Community Colleges | 12-24 months | Certificate and AAS degree options in HVAC, electrical, etc. |
“Apprenticeships are one of the best ways to build a career in PA’s trades.” PA Apprenticeship and Training Council2
Trade Schools in Pennsylvania
From Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology to the Pennsylvania College of Technology, and dozens of CTCs, the state offers top-tier hands-on training.
Why Attend Trade School in Pennsylvania?
| Advantage | What It Means for You |
|---|---|
| Affordable Training | Public trade schools can help reduce overall costs |
| Strong outcomes data | Schools partner with local employers and unions |
| Hands-On Facilities | Labs, tools, and real-world job simulation |
| Urban & Rural Access | Programs available from Erie to Philly and rural counties |
| Fast Program Completion | Some certificates take less than a year |
Explore Accredited Schools
Pennsylvania Licensing Agencies
| Trade | Licensing Agency |
|---|---|
| Electrician | Local municipalities (e.g. Philadelphia, Pittsburgh) |
| Plumber | Local municipalities (no statewide plumbing board) |
| HVAC Technician | Registered via local authority or as home improvement contractor |
| Solar Installer | May require local electrical licensing |
| Mold Inspector | No state license; voluntary certs (ACAC, NORMI) encouraged |
Pennsylvania Trade Career Outlook
Building & Construction Trades
| Trade | Job Growth (2024-2034, US) |
|---|---|
| Plumber | 4.5% |
| Flooring Installer | 9.5% |
| Carpenter | 4.5% |
| Welder | 2.2% |
| 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% |
| Tower Technician | 8.6% |
| Electrician | 9.5% |
| HVAC Technician | 8.1% |
| Wind Turbine Technician | 49.9% |
| Solar Installer | 42.1% |
Mechanical, Automotive & Transportation
| Trade | Job Growth (2024-2034, US) |
|---|---|
| Aircraft Mechanic (A&P) | 4.0% |
| Diesel Technician | 2.4% |
| Heavy Equipment Operator | 3.6% |
| Truck Driver (CDL) | 4.0% |
| CNC Machinist | 0.0% |
| Auto Mechanic | 4.2% |
| Automotive Technician | 4.2% |
| Maintenance Technician | 3.8% |
| Gunsmith | 2.0% |
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% |
| Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) | 2.3% |
| Patient Care Technician | 2.3% |
| Mental Health Technician | 20.0% |
| Medical Assistant | 12.5% |
| 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% |
| Sterile Processing Technician | 10.0% |
| Optician | 2.9% |
| 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% |
| 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 Pennsylvania?
Whether you’re entering the workforce or upskilling for a better career, Pennsylvania has hundreds of accessible trade programs to help you succeed. Start building your future today.
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
Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry: https://www.dli.pa.gov ↩︎
Pennsylvania Apprenticeship and Training Council: https://www.dli.pa.gov/Individuals/Workforce-Development/apprenticeship ↩︎