Trade Careers in Texas
Updated August 14, 2025 | Brad Fishbein
Texas is one of the best places in the country to start or grow a skilled trades career. With booming industries, low unemployment, and strong infrastructure investment, the Lone Star State is constantly hiring electricians, HVAC technicians, plumbers, welders, and other licensed pros.
Whether you're a high school graduate, career changer, or military veteran, Texas offers clear licensing paths, affordable training, and a steady demand for tradespeople.
Why Choose a Skilled Trade in Texas?
| Benefit | Details |
|---|---|
| High Demand | Fast-growing population and construction statewide |
| Strong Wages | Most trades earn $50,000+ annually once licensed |
| Affordable Licensing | Most licenses are regulated by the TDLR and cost less than four-year college |
| Job Security | Skilled trades are essential in every Texas city and rural community |
“Texas ranks among the top states for employment in construction and skilled trades.” - U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics1
Trade Comparison in Texas
| Trade | Avg. Salary | Training Time | License Required | Learn More |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Electrician | $60,500 | 4-5 yrs | Yes | View Guide |
| HVAC Technician | $51,300 | 6-24 months | Yes | View Guide |
| Plumber | $59,120 | 4-5 yrs | Yes | View Guide |
| Welder | $47,500 | 6-18 months | Optional | View Guide |
| Solar Installer | $48,800 | 3-12 months | Optional | View Guide |
| Carpenter | $48,900 | 6-24 months | Optional | View Guide |
| Mold Inspector | $55,000 | 1-6 months | Yes | View Guide |
Trade Schools in Texas
Texas offers one of the most accessible and outcome-focused trade school systems in the U.S. Whether you're training to become an HVAC technician, welder, or CDL driver, choosing an accredited Texas trade school can help you get job-ready fast-with many programs taking less than two years to complete.
🎓 Pro Tip: Public schools like TSTC offer job placement guarantees and tuition assistance for high-demand trades.
Benefits of Texas Trade Schools
| Advantage | What It Means for You |
|---|---|
| Local Licensing Alignment | Programs follow TDLR, CSLB, and TSBPE guidelines |
| Affordable Tuition | Community colleges and TSTC offer low-cost, in-state rates |
| Job Placement Support | Most schools partner with Texas employers and unions |
| Fast Training Timelines | Many programs are completed in 6-18 months |
| State & Federal Financial Aid | FAFSA, GI Bill, and Texas Workforce Grants available |
Top Texas Trade School Programs
| Program | Typical Length | Common School Types |
|---|---|---|
| HVAC Technician | 9-18 months | TSTC, SCI, community colleges |
| Welding | 6-12 months | TSTC, Lincoln Tech, Dallas College |
| CDL Truck Driving | 4-8 weeks | TSTC, Lone Star, private CDL academies |
| Diesel Technician | 12-24 months | South Texas College, TSTC |
| Electrician Training | 1-2 years + apprenticeship | HCC, Dallas College, IBEW affiliates |
Where to Start
Visit our full guide:
👉 Best Trade Schools in Texas (2025)
Learn about accredited programs, licensing outcomes, and which trades are in highest demand across the state.
Licensing Agencies in Texas
| Trade | Licensing Agency |
|---|---|
| Electrician | TDLR - Electricians |
| Plumber | Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners |
| HVAC | TDLR - A/C & Refrigeration |
| Solar Installer | No specific license (may need electrical) |
| Welder | Optional - AWS certification recommended |
| Carpenter | No state license required |
| Mold Inspector | TDLR - Mold Assessors & Remediators |
Career & Salary Outlook in Texas
| Trade | Median Salary1 | Projected Growth |
|---|---|---|
| Electrician | $60,500 | 8% (faster than avg) |
| HVAC Technician | $51,300 | 9% |
| Plumber | $59,120 | 8% |
| Welder | $47,500 | 3% |
| Solar Installer | $48,800 | 22% (much faster) |
| Carpenter | $48,900 | 2% |
| Mold Inspector | $55,000 | 6% |
Ready to Start Your Trade Career in Texas?
Explore a guide, compare training options, or download a checklist to take your first step today.
Citations
-
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics - Occupational Outlook Handbook: https://www.bls.gov/ooh ↩ ↩
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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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