"What is the highest-paying trade in Virginia?"

"Among the trades tracked here, elevator installers and repairers have the highest state median pay in Virginia at $108,250, followed by aircraft mechanics at $82,200 and electrical power line workers at $76,590 (BLS, May 2025). Pay within any trade varies by metro area, experience, and whether you hold a journeyman or master license."

"How much do electricians and plumbers earn in Virginia?"

"Electricians earn a state median of $62,900 and plumbers $60,470 in Virginia (BLS, May 2025). HVAC technicians are close behind at a median of $59,730. These are midpoint figures, so wages run higher with experience, licensing, and overtime."

"Do you need a license to work in the trades in Virginia?"

"It depends on the trade. Electricians, plumbers, and HVAC and mechanical contractors are regulated through the Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation (DPOR) and its Board for Contractors, while some trades require only certification. Check the licensing agencies listed on this page for the rules in your field."

"How do I start a trade career in Virginia?"

"Pick a trade that interests you, then enroll in a trade school or community college program or apply for a registered apprenticeship. Most programs accept students with a high school diploma or GED. Apprenticeships let you earn a paycheck while you train, and many certificate programs finish in under a year."

"How long does trade school take in Virginia?"

"Most trade school programs in Virginia take between 6 months and 2 years. Certificate programs are usually the shortest, while associate degrees take about two years. Registered apprenticeships generally run 3 to 5 years and combine paid on-the-job training with classroom instruction."

"Are trade careers in Virginia in demand?"

"Yes. Steady demand comes from infrastructure projects, shipbuilding and defense work along the coast, housing construction, and an aging workforce that is retiring. The outlook table on this page shows projected growth and annual openings for individual trades."

"Can you enter a Virginia trade through an apprenticeship instead of college?"

"Yes. Registered apprenticeships are a common entry point and do not require a college degree. You work under experienced tradespeople, earn wages from day one, and complete classroom hours through a community college or training center while progressing toward a journeyman credential."

Trade Careers in Virginia

Updated June 8, 2026 | TradeCareerPath Editorial Team

Quick answer: In Virginia, elevator mechanics earn a median of $108,250 and electricians $62,900 (BLS, May 2025), with plumbers and HVAC technicians close behind. Most trades are entered through a registered apprenticeship or a trade-school program, and licensing is handled by the state agencies listed on this page.

Virginia’s skilled trades are powering growth in infrastructure, energy, shipbuilding, healthcare, and more. From Richmond to Norfolk and Roanoke, demand for qualified tradespeople continues to rise across the state.

Whether you’re entering the workforce or switching careers, here’s how to start a rewarding trade career in Virginia.

Why Trade Careers Are Growing in Virginia

Benefit	Details
Infrastructure Growth	Road, bridge, broadband, and energy projects statewide
Military & Shipyards	Norfolk and coastal regions need tradespeople in shipbuilding and maintenance
Strong Education System	Career & Technical Education (CTE) and community colleges statewide

“Skilled trades are essential to Virginia’s economy and defense infrastructure.” - Virginia Employment Commission¹

Compare Skilled Trades in Virginia

Trade	Median Salary	Training Time	License Required?
Carpenter	$55,690	6 months – 4 years (trade school or apprenticeship)	Optional (apprenticeship recommended)
Construction Worker	$43,560	3–12 months (apprenticeship or on-the-job)	Varies (OSHA 10/30; state contractor license for supervisors)
Flooring Installer	$49,404	6–12 months (on-the-job + coursework)	Optional (apprenticeship recommended)
Plumber	$60,470	4–5 years (apprenticeship)	Yes (state licensing)
Welder	$59,180	6–18 months (trade school or apprenticeship)	Optional (AWS certification preferred)
Construction Manager	$119,110	2–4 years (degree or field experience)	Varies (contractor license in many states)
Home Inspector	$75,660	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	$62,900	4–5 years (apprenticeship)	Yes (state licensing)
HVAC Technician	$59,730	6 months – 2 years (certificate or associate)	Yes (EPA 608 and state licensing)
Lineworker	$76,590	3–4 years (joint apprenticeship)	Yes (apprenticeship + utility certifications)
Solar Installer	$49,190	3–12 months (bootcamp or apprenticeship)	Optional (NABCEP certification beneficial)
Tower Technician	$67,790	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)	$82,200	18–30 months (Part 147 school or apprenticeship)	Yes (FAA A&P license)
Auto Mechanic	$59,330	6–12 months (trade school or apprenticeship)	Optional (ASE certifications preferred)
Automotive Technician	$59,330	9–18 months (advanced diploma or apprenticeship)	Optional (ASE certifications preferred)
CNC Machinist	$61,290	9–24 months (certificate or apprenticeship)	Optional (NIMS certification beneficial)
Diesel Technician	$61,090	1–2 years (associate or apprenticeship)	Optional (ASE or OEM certifications)
Gunsmith	$81,850	6–18 months (certificate or apprenticeship)	Optional (NRA/NSTC credentials beneficial)
Heavy Equipment Operator	$57,160	6–12 months (trade school or union program)	Optional (CDL required for many roles)
Maintenance Technician	$49,470	6–12 months (trade school or on-the-job)	Optional (CMRT or OEM certifications)
Truck Driver (CDL)	$56,860	3–6 months (CDL program)	Yes (CDL Class A or B)
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)	$43,200	4–12 weeks (state-approved program)	Yes (state CNA exam)
Patient Care Technician	$43,200	4–12 months (certificate + clinical hours)	Yes (CNA license + PCT certification in many hospitals)
Hemodialysis Technician	$47,340	4–12 months (certificate + clinical hours)	Yes (state certification or BONENT/CCHT credential)
Home Health Aide	$30,300	3–6 months (training + competency exam)	Yes in many states (state-approved HHA program)
Medical Assistant	$44,740	9–12 months (certificate or diploma)	Optional (CMA, RMA, or CCMA)
Mental Health Technician	$48,320	6–12 months (certificate + clinical experience)	Varies (state registration + employer training)
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)	$64,920	12–18 months (state-approved program)	Yes (state license via NCLEX-PN)
Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN)	$64,920	12–18 months (state-approved program)	Yes (state license via NCLEX-PN)
Dental Assistant	$46,670	9–18 months (diploma or associate program)	Varies (CDA, RDA, or state license)
EKG Technician	$76,880	3–9 months (certificate program)	Optional (CET, CCT, or AMCA)
Pharmacy Technician	$44,610	6–12 months (certificate or on-the-job)	Varies (state license or PTCB/ExCPT)
Phlebotomy Technician	$46,340	4–6 months (certificate + clinical practice)	Yes in many states (national certification preferred)
Radiologic Technologist	$80,670	2 years (associate degree)	Yes (ARRT registration + state license)
Diagnostic Medical Sonographer	$95,660	18–24 months (accredited associate or certificate)	Yes (ARDMS/CCI credential; state license in some areas)
Sterile Processing Technician	$46,580	6–12 months (certificate + clinical hours)	Yes in many states (CRCST or CBSPD certification)
Surgical Technologist	$67,580	12–24 months (accredited surgical tech program)	Yes in many states (NBSTSA or NCCT certification)
Optician	$55,820	9–24 months (apprenticeship or associate)	Yes in many states (state license or ABO-NCLE)
Medical Billing & Coding Specialist	$53,290	9–24 months (certificate or associate)	Optional (CPC, CCA, or CBCS)
Medical Office Administrator	$46,180	9–18 months (certificate or associate)	Optional (CMAA or CEHRS certification)
Occupational Therapy Assistant	$74,960	2 years (accredited associate degree)	Yes (state license via NBCOT exam)
Physical Therapy Aide	$33,390	3–12 months (certificate or employer training)	Optional (on-the-job + certificate programs)
Massage Therapist	$62,220	9–18 months (state-approved school)	Yes (state license)
Personal Trainer	$40,820	3–6 months (exam prep + practicum)	Yes (national certification required by many employers)
Dog Trainer	$62,960	6–12 months (mentorship or certificate)	Optional (industry certifications preferred)
Veterinary Assistant	$37,450	6–12 months (certificate + hands-on experience)	Optional (AVMA-approved assistant credential)
Veterinary Technician	$52,090	2 years (associate degree)	Yes (VTNE and state license)
Beauty Professional	N/A	9–15 months (state-approved school)	Yes (state cosmetology license)
Cosmetologist	N/A	9–18 months (state-approved school)	Yes (state cosmetology license)
Esthetician	$39,350	4–9 months (state-approved program)	Yes (state esthetics license)
Culinary Chef	$38,245	1–2 years (culinary school or apprenticeship)	Optional (ServSafe + local food handler permit)
Pastry Chef	$38,245	9–18 months (baking & pastry diploma or apprenticeship)	Optional (ServSafe; ACF certification boosts prospects)
Bookkeeper	$51,620	6–12 months (certificate or on-the-job)	Optional (CB or CPB certification beneficial)
Digital Court Reporter	$55,210	6–12 months (certificate program)	Optional (AAERT certification preferred)
Paralegal	$63,990	12–24 months (certificate or associate)	Optional (ABA-approved certificate beneficial)

Source: BLS OEWS, May 2025. State data (Virginia).

Highest-paying skilled trades in Virginia: Elevator and Escalator Installers and Repairers leads at $108,250 median annual wage. Source: U.S. BLS OEWS, May 2025 release. — The highest-paying trades in Virginia

Virginia Apprenticeships and Schools

Virginia supports union apprenticeships, public training programs, and short-term credentials through high schools, colleges, and workforce centers.

Training Type	Duration	Notes
Apprenticeship	3-5 years	Paid, on-the-job training with classroom instruction
Community Colleges	6-24 months	Associate degrees and workforce credentials statewide
High School CTE	1-2 years	Career and Technical Education (CTE) for juniors and seniors

“Registered apprenticeships are key to filling Virginia’s skills gap.” - Virginia Community College System

Trade Schools in Virginia

Virginia offers extensive trade training options through technical colleges, apprenticeships, and private training providers.

Why Attend Trade School in Virginia?

Advantage	What It Means for You
Short-Term Options	Credentials in weeks or months, not years
High outcomes data	Many programs are aligned with in-demand jobs
Local Programs	Training centers in every region of the state
Stackable Credentials	Earn certifications that lead into apprenticeships or degrees

Explore Accredited Schools

Virginia Licensing Agencies

Trade	Licensing Agency
Electrician	Virginia Board for Contractors
Plumber	Board for Contractors - Plumbing
HVAC Technician	Mechanical contractor license via DPOR
Solar Installer	May need electrical license depending on project scope
Mold Inspector	No license required; certifications like ACAC, NORMI recommended

Virginia Trade Career Outlook

Building & Construction Trades

Trade	Job Growth (2024-2034, US)
Plumber	4.5%
Welder	2.2%
Carpenter	4.5%
Flooring Installer	9.5%
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%
Wind Turbine Technician	49.9%
Electrician	9.5%
HVAC Technician	8.1%
Solar Installer	42.1%

Mechanical, Automotive & Transportation

Trade	Job Growth (2024-2034, US)
Aircraft Mechanic (A&P)	4.0%
Gunsmith	2.0%
CNC Machinist	0.0%
Diesel Technician	2.4%
Auto Mechanic	4.2%
Automotive Technician	4.2%
Heavy Equipment Operator	3.6%
Truck Driver (CDL)	4.0%
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%
Mental Health Technician	20.0%
Hemodialysis Technician	5.2%
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%
EKG Technician	3.0%
Surgical Technologist	4.5%
Optician	2.9%
Dental Assistant	6.4%
Sterile Processing Technician	10.0%
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)
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)
Paralegal	0.2%
Digital Court Reporter	-0.3%
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 Virginia?

Whether you’re starting out or retraining, Virginia offers tuition help, fast-track programs, and apprenticeships to help you gain the skills employers need. Start your trade career 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

Virginia Employment Commission - https://www.vec.virginia.gov ↩︎