Trade Careers in Tennessee
Updated August 4, 2025 | Brad Fishbein
Tennessee's skilled trades are a driving force behind its manufacturing, healthcare, energy, and construction sectors. From Nashville to Memphis and Chattanooga, demand is high for trade workers who can build, maintain, and grow the state's economy.
Whether you're graduating high school or changing careers, here's how to start a rewarding trade career in Tennessee.
🔧 Why Trade Careers Are Growing in Tennessee
| Benefit | Details |
|---|---|
| Manufacturing Hub | Tennessee is home to major automotive, logistics, and aerospace employers |
| Population Growth | New construction and infrastructure demand skilled workers |
| Workforce Funding | TN Reconnect, TCAT, and WIOA programs help fund training |
| Accessible Education | Technical colleges and apprenticeships are widely available |
“Skilled trades are vital to Tennessee's future workforce.” - Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development1
⚖️ Compare Skilled Trades in Tennessee
| Trade | Avg. Salary2 | Training Time | License Required? | Learn More |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Electrician | $56,480 | 4-5 years | ✅ Yes | Electrician Guide |
| HVAC Technician | $51,300 | 6-24 months | ✅ Yes | HVAC Guide |
| Plumber | $55,720 | 4-5 years | ✅ Yes | Plumber Guide |
| Welder | $47,890 | 6-18 months | ❌ Optional (certs) | Welder Guide |
| Solar Installer | $46,510 | 3-12 months | ❌ Optional (some NABCEP) | Solar Guide |
| Carpenter | $47,680 | 6-24 months | ❌ No | Carpenter Guide |
| Mold Inspector | $50,120 | 1-6 months | ❌ No (Voluntary cert) | Mold Guide |
🧰 Tennessee Apprenticeships & Schools
Tennessee supports union and non-union apprenticeships, plus public training programs through Tennessee Colleges of Applied Technology (TCAT) and community colleges.
| Training Type | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Apprenticeship | 3-5 years | Paid, hands-on learning; many linked to union halls or contractors |
| TCAT Programs | 6-24 months | Certificate and diploma programs in skilled trades |
| Community Colleges | 12-24 months | Associate degrees in HVAC, electrical, and related fields |
“TCATs offer practical, hands-on education that leads directly to a career.” - Tennessee Higher Education Commission3
🏫 Trade Schools in Tennessee
With more than 25 TCAT campuses statewide, Tennessee makes trade education accessible and affordable in both rural and urban areas.
🎓 Tip: Eligible adults can attend tuition-free through Tennessee Reconnect-a last-dollar scholarship for adult learners.
Why Attend Trade School in Tennessee?
| Advantage | What It Means for You |
|---|---|
| Tuition-Free Options | Tennessee Reconnect and Promise help reduce or eliminate cost |
| Fast Job Placement | TCAT programs often lead directly to employment |
| Strong Employer Ties | Many programs are designed with local industry partners |
| Rural & Urban Coverage | Campuses across metro and small-town Tennessee |
| Flexible Learning | Full-time and part-time options available |
Explore Accredited Schools
🏛️ Tennessee Licensing Agencies
| Trade | Licensing Agency |
|---|---|
| Electrician | Tennessee Board for Licensing Contractors |
| Plumber | Licensing varies by city/county (e.g. Nashville, Memphis) |
| HVAC Technician | Mechanical licensing via state board or local authority |
| Solar Installer | May require electrical license for system wiring |
| Mold Inspector | No state license; certifications from ACAC or NORMI are recommended |
📈 Tennessee Trade Career Outlook
| Trade | Median Salary2 | Projected Growth |
|---|---|---|
| Electrician | $56,480 | 7% |
| HVAC Technician | $51,300 | 9% |
| Plumber | $55,720 | 6% |
| Welder | $47,890 | 3% |
| Solar Installer | $46,510 | 18% |
| Carpenter | $47,680 | 2% |
| Mold Inspector | $50,120 | 6% |
✅ Ready to Start a Trade Career in Tennessee?
Whether you're just starting out or ready for a change, Tennessee's trade schools, TCATs, and apprenticeships can help you learn the skills to get hired fast. Your future in the trades starts now.
📚 Citations
-
Tennessee Department of Labor & Workforce Development - https://www.tn.gov/workforce ↩
-
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics - Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (TN): https://www.bls.gov/oes ↩ ↩
-
Tennessee Higher Education Commission / TCAT Info - https://www.tn.gov/thec ↩
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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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