Trade Careers in Washington
Updated August 2, 2025 | Brad Fishbein
Washington State's skilled trades are essential to powering its clean energy, aerospace, construction, and maritime industries. From Seattle and Spokane to Tri-Cities and Bellingham, skilled workers are the backbone of Washington's economy.
Whether you're a recent high school grad or transitioning from another career, here's how to start your journey in the trades across Washington.
🔧 Why Trade Careers Are Growing in Washington
| Benefit | Details |
|---|---|
| Booming Construction | Urban growth and infrastructure projects are fueling demand |
| Green Economy Growth | Strong investment in solar, wind, and energy efficiency |
| Workforce Training Support | Programs like WorkSource, WIOA, and community colleges help fund training |
| Strong Union Presence | Trades are well-organized with solid apprenticeship networks |
“Washington's trades are the foundation of a resilient, green, and growing economy.” - WA Employment Security Department1
⚖️ Compare Skilled Trades in Washington
| Trade | Avg. Salary2 | Training Time | License Required? | Learn More |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Electrician | $82,830 | 4-5 years | ✅ Yes | Electrician Guide |
| HVAC Technician | $64,530 | 6-24 months | ✅ Yes | HVAC Guide |
| Plumber | $79,300 | 4-5 years | ✅ Yes | Plumber Guide |
| Welder | $60,320 | 6-18 months | ❌ Optional (certs) | Welder Guide |
| Solar Installer | $59,680 | 3-12 months | ❌ Optional (some NABCEP) | Solar Guide |
| Carpenter | $62,970 | 6-24 months | ❌ No | Carpenter Guide |
| Mold Inspector | $55,410 | 1-6 months | ❌ No (Voluntary cert) | Mold Guide |
🧰 Washington Apprenticeships & Schools
Washington offers strong apprenticeship programs, public training through community colleges, and career/technical education centers across the state.
| Training Type | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Apprenticeship | 3-5 years | Paid training with union and non-union options |
| Technical Colleges | 6-24 months | Hands-on instruction and state-approved trade certifications |
| Community Colleges | 12-24 months | Associate degrees in construction trades and energy technologies |
“Apprenticeship programs help students earn while they learn with no student debt.” - Washington State L&I Apprenticeship Division3
🏫 Trade Schools in Washington
From the Puget Sound to eastern Washington, students have access to trade training via public and private institutions.
🎓 Tip: Eligible residents can receive job training grants through WorkSource Washington and Opportunity Grant programs.
Why Attend Trade School in Washington?
| Advantage | What It Means for You |
|---|---|
| Strong Wages | Washington's trades earn well above the national average |
| Green Energy Momentum | Training supports growing solar and energy retrofit sectors |
| High Job Placement | Statewide demand for licensed trade professionals |
| Urban & Rural Coverage | Campuses in all counties and metro regions |
| Funding Access | Tuition assistance via state grants and federal programs |
Explore Accredited Schools
🏛️ Washington Licensing Agencies
| Trade | Licensing Agency |
|---|---|
| Electrician | WA Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) Electrical Program |
| Plumber | WA Department of Labor & Industries (Plumber Certification) |
| HVAC Technician | Specialty or mechanical license required via L&I |
| Solar Installer | May require electrical contractor or journeyman license |
| Mold Inspector | No state license; ACAC or NORMI certifications often preferred |
📈 Washington Trade Career Outlook
| Trade | Median Salary2 | Projected Growth |
|---|---|---|
| Electrician | $82,830 | 9% |
| HVAC Technician | $64,530 | 10% |
| Plumber | $79,300 | 8% |
| Welder | $60,320 | 3% |
| Solar Installer | $59,680 | 22% |
| Carpenter | $62,970 | 2% |
| Mold Inspector | $55,410 | 6% |
✅ Ready to Start a Trade Career in Washington?
Washington is one of the best states for skilled trade careers, with high pay, strong union support, and a focus on future-ready industries. Whether you're looking for hands-on training or a clear pathway into green energy or construction, Washington has what you need to succeed.
📚 Citations
-
WA Employment Security Department - https://esd.wa.gov ↩
-
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics - Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (WA): https://www.bls.gov/oes ↩ ↩
-
WA Department of Labor & Industries - Apprenticeship Division: https://www.lni.wa.gov/licensing-permits/apprenticeship/ ↩
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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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