Skilled Trades Directory

Updated April 13, 2025 | Brad Fishbein

Table of Contents

Thinking about starting a career in the trades? This is your starting point. Whether you're just out of high school, switching careers, or looking to level up your skills — the trades offer rewarding, high-paying paths with low student debt and high job security.

Core Skilled Trades (2025)

Trade Avg. Salary (U.S.) Certification Required Training Time
Electrician $61,5901 Yes (state licensing) 4–5 years (apprenticeship)
HVAC Technician $55,4202 Yes (EPA Section 608) 6 months – 2 years
Plumber $61,5503 Yes (state licensing) 4–5 years (apprenticeship)
Welder $47,0104 Optional (certification preferred) 6 months – 2 years
Carpenter $55,1905 Optional (certification beneficial) 6 months – 4 years
Solar Installer $48,8006 Optional (certification beneficial) 3–12 months
Mold Inspector $47,2807 Yes (varies by state) 3–12 months

🚀 Fastest-Growing Trades Right Now (2025)

According to the latest government data, these trades are growing faster than average:

  • Solar Installer (+22%)
  • HVAC Technician (+6%)
  • Electrician (+6%)
  • Plumber (+4%)
  • Welder (+4%)

Demand is expected to climb through the decade as infrastructure, green energy, and housing continue to expand.

Why Choose a Trade Career?

✅ High Demand: Trades are among the fastest-growing careers in the U.S.
✅ Low Cost: Skip the 4-year degree. Start earning while you train.
✅ Hands-On Work: If you hate sitting at a desk, you’ll love the trades.
✅ Real Impact: You build, fix, and power the world around you.

How to Get Started

  1. Pick a Trade: Explore job descriptions, salary ranges, and required licenses.
  2. Find Training: Use our Trade School Finders to locate programs near you.
  3. Get Certified: Learn what licenses and exams are required in your state.
  4. Apply for Jobs: Use our career tools to find openings and prep for interviews.

Browse by Trade Category

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Skilled Trades

Do I need a license for all trades?

Not always. Some trades like welding or carpentry don’t require a license in every state. But trades like electrical, HVAC, and plumbing almost always require a license or certification to work legally.

How much can I make as a skilled tradesperson?

Most skilled trades pay $45K–$65K starting out — and can go much higher with experience, certifications, or running your own business. Check our salary comparison guide.

How long does trade school take?

Most programs take 6 months to 2 years, depending on the trade. Some apprenticeships let you earn while you learn, which makes the trades more affordable than college.

What’s the best trade for job security?

Right now? HVAC, electricians, and solar installers are booming. But the best trade for you depends on what kind of work you like — indoors, outdoors, solo, hands-on, etc.

Ready to build a career with purpose? Dive in and take the first step toward your trade career path. 🛠️

  1. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Electricians. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/construction-and-extraction/electricians.htm ↩

  2. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, HVAC Technicians. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/installation-maintenance-and-repair/heating-air-conditioning-and-refrigeration-mechanics-and-installers.htm ↩

  3. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/construction-and-extraction/plumbers-pipefitters-and-steamfitters.htm ↩

  4. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/production/welders-cutters-solderers-and-brazers.htm ↩

  5. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Carpenters. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/construction-and-extraction/carpenters.htm ↩

  6. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Solar Photovoltaic Installers. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/construction-and-extraction/solar-photovoltaic-installers.htm ↩

  7. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Hazardous Materials Removal Workers. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/construction-and-extraction/hazardous-materials-removal-workers.htm ↩

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Brad Fishbein Licensed Mold Assessor

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.