Trade Careers in Tennessee
Quick answer: In Tennessee, elevator mechanics earn a median of about $100,490 and electricians about $61,090 (BLS, May 2025), with line workers and aircraft mechanics also among the top earners. Most of these trades are entered through an apprenticeship or a trade-school program rather than a four-year degree. Licensing is handled by the state and local agencies listed on this page.
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 |
| 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 | Median Salary | Training Time | License Required? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carpenter | $50,830 | 6 months – 4 years (trade school or apprenticeship) | Optional (apprenticeship recommended) |
| Construction Worker | $45,000 | 3–12 months (apprenticeship or on-the-job) | Varies (OSHA 10/30; state contractor license for supervisors) |
| Flooring Installer | $49,900 | 6–12 months (on-the-job + coursework) | Optional (apprenticeship recommended) |
| Plumber | $58,600 | 4–5 years (apprenticeship) | Yes (state licensing) |
| Welder | $48,040 | 6–18 months (trade school or apprenticeship) | Optional (AWS certification preferred) |
| Construction Manager | $110,200 | 2–4 years (degree or field experience) | Varies (contractor license in many states) |
| Home Inspector | $59,870 | 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 | $61,090 | 4–5 years (apprenticeship) | Yes (state licensing) |
| HVAC Technician | $55,490 | 6 months – 2 years (certificate or associate) | Yes (EPA 608 and state licensing) |
| Lineworker | $83,660 | 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 | $49,140 | 3–9 months (tower climbing school + field training) | Yes (OSHA/NRF safety + CPR certifications) |
| Wind Turbine Technician | N/A | 1–2 years (associate or technical diploma) | Yes (industry safety certifications) |
| Aircraft Mechanic (A&P) | $81,040 | 18–30 months (Part 147 school or apprenticeship) | Yes (FAA A&P license) |
| Auto Mechanic | $50,290 | 6–12 months (trade school or apprenticeship) | Optional (ASE certifications preferred) |
| Automotive Technician | $50,290 | 9–18 months (advanced diploma or apprenticeship) | Optional (ASE certifications preferred) |
| CNC Machinist | $49,600 | 9–24 months (certificate or apprenticeship) | Optional (NIMS certification beneficial) |
| Diesel Technician | $59,190 | 1–2 years (associate or apprenticeship) | Optional (ASE or OEM certifications) |
| Gunsmith | $82,090 | 6–18 months (certificate or apprenticeship) | Optional (NRA/NSTC credentials beneficial) |
| Heavy Equipment Operator | $52,000 | 6–12 months (trade school or union program) | Optional (CDL required for many roles) |
| Maintenance Technician | $47,240 | 6–12 months (trade school or on-the-job) | Optional (CMRT or OEM certifications) |
| Truck Driver (CDL) | $58,620 | 3–6 months (CDL program) | Yes (CDL Class A or B) |
| Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) | $37,990 | 4–12 weeks (state-approved program) | Yes (state CNA exam) |
| Patient Care Technician | $37,990 | 4–12 months (certificate + clinical hours) | Yes (CNA license + PCT certification in many hospitals) |
| Hemodialysis Technician | $49,180 | 4–12 months (certificate + clinical hours) | Yes (state certification or BONENT/CCHT credential) |
| Home Health Aide | $32,130 | 3–6 months (training + competency exam) | Yes in many states (state-approved HHA program) |
| Medical Assistant | $39,570 | 9–12 months (certificate or diploma) | Optional (CMA, RMA, or CCMA) |
| Mental Health Technician | $39,800 | 6–12 months (certificate + clinical experience) | Varies (state registration + employer training) |
| Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) | $58,870 | 12–18 months (state-approved program) | Yes (state license via NCLEX-PN) |
| Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) | $58,870 | 12–18 months (state-approved program) | Yes (state license via NCLEX-PN) |
| Dental Assistant | $46,720 | 9–18 months (diploma or associate program) | Varies (CDA, RDA, or state license) |
| EKG Technician | $76,650 | 3–9 months (certificate program) | Optional (CET, CCT, or AMCA) |
| Pharmacy Technician | $41,920 | 6–12 months (certificate or on-the-job) | Varies (state license or PTCB/ExCPT) |
| Phlebotomy Technician | $38,550 | 4–6 months (certificate + clinical practice) | Yes in many states (national certification preferred) |
| Radiologic Technologist | $64,630 | 2 years (associate degree) | Yes (ARRT registration + state license) |
| Diagnostic Medical Sonographer | $80,640 | 18–24 months (accredited associate or certificate) | Yes (ARDMS/CCI credential; state license in some areas) |
| Sterile Processing Technician | $46,990 | 6–12 months (certificate + clinical hours) | Yes in many states (CRCST or CBSPD certification) |
| Surgical Technologist | $60,530 | 12–24 months (accredited surgical tech program) | Yes in many states (NBSTSA or NCCT certification) |
| Optician | $49,840 | 9–24 months (apprenticeship or associate) | Yes in many states (state license or ABO-NCLE) |
| Medical Billing & Coding Specialist | $48,780 | 9–24 months (certificate or associate) | Optional (CPC, CCA, or CBCS) |
| Medical Office Administrator | $39,940 | 9–18 months (certificate or associate) | Optional (CMAA or CEHRS certification) |
| Occupational Therapy Assistant | $62,420 | 2 years (accredited associate degree) | Yes (state license via NBCOT exam) |
| Physical Therapy Aide | $30,320 | 3–12 months (certificate or employer training) | Optional (on-the-job + certificate programs) |
| Massage Therapist | $50,070 | 9–18 months (state-approved school) | Yes (state license) |
| Personal Trainer | $47,380 | 3–6 months (exam prep + practicum) | Yes (national certification required by many employers) |
| Dog Trainer | $35,320 | 6–12 months (mentorship or certificate) | Optional (industry certifications preferred) |
| Veterinary Assistant | $36,320 | 6–12 months (certificate + hands-on experience) | Optional (AVMA-approved assistant credential) |
| Veterinary Technician | $42,810 | 2 years (associate degree) | Yes (VTNE and state license) |
| Beauty Professional | $31,310 | 9–15 months (state-approved school) | Yes (state cosmetology license) |
| Cosmetologist | $31,310 | 9–18 months (state-approved school) | Yes (state cosmetology license) |
| Esthetician | $36,590 | 4–9 months (state-approved program) | Yes (state esthetics license) |
| Culinary Chef | $39,569 | 1–2 years (culinary school or apprenticeship) | Optional (ServSafe + local food handler permit) |
| Pastry Chef | $39,569 | 9–18 months (baking & pastry diploma or apprenticeship) | Optional (ServSafe; ACF certification boosts prospects) |
| Bookkeeper | $48,180 | 6–12 months (certificate or on-the-job) | Optional (CB or CPB certification beneficial) |
| Digital Court Reporter | N/A | 6–12 months (certificate program) | Optional (AAERT certification preferred) |
| Paralegal | $58,820 | 12–24 months (certificate or associate) | Optional (ABA-approved certificate beneficial) |
Source: BLS OEWS, May 2025. State data (Tennessee).
Tennessee Apprenticeships and 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 Commission2
Trade Schools in Tennessee
With more than 25 TCAT campuses statewide, Tennessee makes trade education accessible and affordable in both rural and urban areas.
Why Attend Trade School in Tennessee?
| Advantage | What It Means for You |
|---|---|
| Tuition Options | Ask schools about available payment options |
| Strong Job Outcomes | Many programs include career services and employer connections; results vary by location and job market |
| 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
Building & Construction Trades
| Trade | Job Growth (2024-2034, US) |
|---|---|
| Plumber | 4.5% |
| Carpenter | 4.5% |
| Flooring Installer | 9.5% |
| 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% |
| Wind Turbine Technician | 49.9% |
| Electrician | 9.5% |
| HVAC Technician | 8.1% |
| Solar Installer | 42.1% |
| Tower Technician | 8.6% |
Mechanical, Automotive & Transportation
| Trade | Job Growth (2024-2034, US) |
|---|---|
| Gunsmith | 2.0% |
| Aircraft Mechanic (A&P) | 4.0% |
| Diesel Technician | 2.4% |
| Truck Driver (CDL) | 4.0% |
| Heavy Equipment Operator | 3.6% |
| Auto Mechanic | 4.2% |
| Automotive Technician | 4.2% |
| CNC Machinist | 0.0% |
| 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% |
| EKG Technician | 3.0% |
| Radiologic Technologist | 4.3% |
| Surgical Technologist | 4.5% |
| Optician | 2.9% |
| Sterile Processing Technician | 10.0% |
| Dental Assistant | 6.4% |
| 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% |
| Veterinary Assistant | 8.7% |
| Dog Trainer | 5.1% |
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 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 employers need. Hiring outcomes vary by location, experience, and job market conditions. Your future in the trades starts now.
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
Tennessee Department of Labor & Workforce Development - https://www.tn.gov/workforce ↩︎
Tennessee Higher Education Commission / TCAT Info - https://www.tn.gov/thec ↩︎