Skilled Trades Career Directory: Salaries and Training
Thinking about starting a career in the trades? This page is a starting point. Whether you’re just out of high school, switching careers, or leveling up your skills, the trades can offer rewarding, high-paying paths with low student debt and high job security.
Quick answers
Do I need a license for all trades?
Not always. Some fields, such as general construction or woodworking, may not require a license in every state. Others, including electrical, HVAC, or plumbing, typically do require state-specific licensing or certification to perform certain types of work.
How long does trade school take?
Program length depends on the field and credential. Many certificate and diploma programs can be completed in 6 months to 2 years, while apprenticeships may include paid on-the-job learning during that time.
How much do skilled trades professionals earn?
Earnings vary by trade, experience level, and location. Many entry-level technicians earn a competitive starting wage, with additional opportunities for advancement through certifications or experience. For typical ranges, visit our national trade salary guide.
Which trades have steady demand?
Fields such as HVAC technology, electrical systems, and renewable energy installation are seeing consistent employer demand nationwide. The right trade for you depends on your interests, work environment preferences, and long-term goals.
Why choose a trade career?
Many skilled trades offer strong market demand and hands-on, practical work. Training programs often cost less and take less time than traditional four-year degrees.
How do I get started in the trades?
Start by exploring careers and finding training programs near you. Next, learn which certifications or licensing steps apply in your state and plan for entry-level roles, apprenticeships, or continuing education options once training is complete.
At a glance
- Training can take 6 months to 2 years, depending on the program.
- Licensing and certification requirements vary by trade and state.
- Earnings vary by trade, experience level, and location.
- Fields such as HVAC technology, electrical systems, and renewable energy installation are seeing consistent employer demand nationwide.
Core Skilled Trades (2025)
Certification and licensing requirements vary by state and employer. Training times reflect typical program or apprenticeship lengths and can differ by provider, prior experience, and local regulations. Always verify current requirements with your state licensing board or prospective program.
Building & Construction Trades
| Trade | Median Salary (U.S.) | Certification / Licensing | Typical Training Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carpenter | $60,580* | Optional (apprenticeship recommended) | 6 months – 4 years (trade school or apprenticeship) |
| Construction Worker | $47,120* | Varies (OSHA 10/30; state contractor license for supervisors) | 3–12 months (apprenticeship or on-the-job) |
| Flooring Installer | $55,641* | Optional (apprenticeship recommended) | 6–12 months (on-the-job + coursework) |
| Plumber | $63,800* | Yes (state licensing) | 4–5 years (apprenticeship) |
| Welder | $53,750* | Optional (AWS certification preferred) | 6–18 months (trade school or apprenticeship) |
| Tile Setter | $55,641* | Optional (apprenticeship recommended) | 6–12 months (on-the-job + coursework) |
| Pipefitter | $63,800* | Yes in many states (state licensing; apprenticeship) | 4–5 years (apprenticeship) |
| Steamfitter | $63,800* | Yes in many states (state licensing; apprenticeship) | 4–5 years (apprenticeship) |
| Boilermaker | $76,410* | Varies (apprenticeship; state license in some areas) | 3–4 years (apprenticeship) |
| Brick & Block Mason | $62,120* | Optional (apprenticeship recommended) | 3–4 years (apprenticeship) |
| Cabinet Maker | $46,680* | Optional (apprenticeship recommended) | 6–12 months (trade school or apprenticeship) |
| Ironworker | $62,140* | Optional (apprenticeship recommended) | 3–4 years (apprenticeship) |
| Locksmith | $51,320* | Varies (state license in some areas) | 6–12 months (certificate or apprenticeship) |
| Roofer | $55,440* | Optional (apprenticeship recommended; contractor license for business owners) | 6–12 months (on-the-job + coursework) |
| Sheet Metal Worker | $61,800* | Yes in many states (apprenticeship; trade license varies) | 3–4 years (apprenticeship) |
| Insulation Worker | $52,495* | Optional (OSHA 10/30; apprenticeship recommended) | 3–12 months (on-the-job + coursework) |
| Drywall Installer | $58,930* | Optional (apprenticeship recommended) | 3–12 months (on-the-job + coursework) |
| Woodworker | $45,327* | Optional (apprenticeship recommended) | 6–12 months (trade school or apprenticeship) |
Construction Management & Inspection
| Trade | Median Salary (U.S.) | Certification / Licensing | Typical Training Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Construction Manager | $114,990* | Varies (contractor license in many states) | 2–4 years (degree or field experience) |
| Home Inspector | $74,690* | Yes in many states (state license) | 2–6 months (state-approved course) |
| Mold Inspector | N/A | Varies (state license or industry certification) | 3–12 months (coursework + field hours) |
| Energy Auditor | $74,690* | Optional (BPI/HERS credentials often required) | 2–6 months (coursework + fieldwork) |
| Environmental Technician | $55,090* | Optional (HAZWOPER; industry certifications) | 6–12 months (certificate + fieldwork) |
| Water Damage Restoration Technician | $47,120* | Optional (IICRC WRT/ASD certifications) | 1–6 months (courses + on-the-job) |
Electrical & Energy Systems
| Trade | Median Salary (U.S.) | Certification / Licensing | Typical Training Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Appliance Repair Technician | $63,598* | Optional (EPA 608 for sealed systems) | 3–12 months (certificate + on-the-job) |
| Electrician | $63,190* | Yes (state licensing) | 4–5 years (apprenticeship) |
| HVAC Technician | $61,010* | Yes (EPA 608 and state licensing) | 6 months – 2 years (certificate or associate) |
| Refrigeration Technician | $61,010* | Yes (EPA 608; state license in many areas) | 6–18 months (certificate or associate) |
| Lineworker | $95,320* | Yes (apprenticeship + utility certifications) | 3–4 years (joint apprenticeship) |
| Solar Installer | $53,140* | Optional (NABCEP certification beneficial) | 3–12 months (bootcamp or apprenticeship) |
| Controls Technician | $74,340* | Optional (ISA/PLC certifications) | 9–24 months (certificate or associate) |
| Home Security Technician | $60,070* | Varies (state low-voltage license in many areas) | 3–12 months (certificate + on-the-job) |
| Tower Technician | $63,520* | Yes (OSHA/NRF safety + CPR certifications) | 3–9 months (tower climbing school + field training) |
| Wind Turbine Technician | $64,120* | Yes (industry safety certifications) | 1–2 years (associate or technical diploma) |
Mechanical, Automotive & Transportation
| Trade | Median Salary (U.S.) | Certification / Licensing | Typical Training Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Auto Body Repair Technician | $54,890* | Optional (I-CAR/ASE certifications) | 6–12 months (certificate or apprenticeship) |
| Aircraft Mechanic (A&P) | $79,870* | Yes (FAA A&P license) | 18–30 months (Part 147 school or apprenticeship) |
| Auto Mechanic | $50,620* | Optional (ASE certifications preferred) | 6–12 months (trade school or apprenticeship) |
| Automotive Technician | $50,620* | Optional (ASE certifications preferred) | 9–18 months (advanced diploma or apprenticeship) |
| CNC Machinist | $58,750* | Optional (NIMS certification beneficial) | 9–24 months (certificate or apprenticeship) |
| Diesel Technician | $61,770* | Optional (ASE or OEM certifications) | 1–2 years (associate or apprenticeship) |
| Gunsmith | $68,990* | Optional (NRA/NSTC credentials beneficial) | 6–18 months (certificate or apprenticeship) |
| Heavy Equipment Operator | $59,850* | Optional (CDL required for many roles) | 6–12 months (trade school or union program) |
| Maintenance Technician | $49,590* | Optional (CMRT or OEM certifications) | 6–12 months (trade school or on-the-job) |
| Millwright | $65,700* | Optional (apprenticeship; NCCER beneficial) | 3–4 years (apprenticeship) |
| Pilot | $123,220* | Yes (FAA Commercial Pilot License) | 12–24 months (flight school + hours) |
| Robotics Technician | $73,900* | Optional (FANUC/ABB OEM certifications) | 9–18 months (certificate or associate) |
| Truck Driver (CDL) | $58,640* | Yes (CDL Class A or B) | 3–6 months (CDL program) |
| Freight Broker | $82,320* | Varies (FMCSA authority for business owners) | 3–12 months (certificate + on-the-job) |
| Motorcycle Mechanic | $48,580* | Optional (OEM/ASE certifications) | 6–12 months (certificate or apprenticeship) |
| Marine Technician | $57,550* | Optional (ABYC certification beneficial) | 6–12 months (certificate or apprenticeship) |
Healthcare: Nursing & Patient Care
| Trade | Median Salary (U.S.) | Certification / Licensing | Typical Training Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) | $42,260* | Yes (state CNA exam) | 4–12 weeks (state-approved program) |
| Patient Care Technician | $42,260* | Yes (CNA license + PCT certification in many hospitals) | 4–12 months (certificate + clinical hours) |
| Hemodialysis Technician | $50,290* | Yes (state certification or BONENT/CCHT credential) | 4–12 months (certificate + clinical hours) |
| Home Health Aide | $35,800* | Yes in many states (state-approved HHA program) | 3–6 months (training + competency exam) |
| Medical Assistant | $45,690* | Optional (CMA, RMA, or CCMA) | 9–12 months (certificate or diploma) |
| Mental Health Technician | $45,130* | Varies (state registration + employer training) | 6–12 months (certificate + clinical experience) |
| Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) | $64,400* | Yes (state license via NCLEX-PN) | 12–18 months (state-approved program) |
| Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) | $64,400* | Yes (state license via NCLEX-PN) | 12–18 months (state-approved program) |
Healthcare: Allied Health & Diagnostics
| Trade | Median Salary (U.S.) | Certification / Licensing | Typical Training Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dental Assistant | $48,070* | Varies (CDA, RDA, or state license) | 9–18 months (diploma or associate program) |
| EKG Technician | $74,310* | Optional (CET, CCT, or AMCA) | 3–9 months (certificate program) |
| Pharmacy Technician | $45,750* | Varies (state license or PTCB/ExCPT) | 6–12 months (certificate or on-the-job) |
| Phlebotomy Technician | $45,230* | Yes in many states (national certification preferred) | 4–6 months (certificate + clinical practice) |
| Radiologic Technologist | $80,110* | Yes (ARRT registration + state license) | 2 years (associate degree) |
| Diagnostic Medical Sonographer | $96,590* | Yes (ARDMS/CCI credential; state license in some areas) | 18–24 months (accredited associate or certificate) |
| Sterile Processing Technician | $47,700* | Yes in many states (CRCST or CBSPD certification) | 6–12 months (certificate + clinical hours) |
| Surgical Technologist | $64,650* | Yes in many states (NBSTSA or NCCT certification) | 12–24 months (accredited surgical tech program) |
| Optician | $47,260* | Yes in many states (state license or ABO-NCLE) | 9–24 months (apprenticeship or associate) |
Emergency Services & Public Safety
| Trade | Median Salary (U.S.) | Certification / Licensing | Typical Training Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| EMT | $44,470* | Yes (state certification; NREMT) | 3–6 months (state-approved program) |
| Paramedic | $60,600* | Yes (state license; NREMT-P) | 12–24 months (advanced program + clinicals) |
| Firefighter | $59,280* | Yes (fire academy; EMT often required) | 6–12 months (academy + EMT) |
Healthcare: Administration & Office Support
| Trade | Median Salary (U.S.) | Certification / Licensing | Typical Training Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Medical Billing & Coding Specialist | $51,140* | Optional (CPC, CCA, or CBCS) | 9–24 months (certificate or associate) |
| Medical Office Administrator | $45,930* | Optional (CMAA or CEHRS certification) | 9–18 months (certificate or associate) |
| Medical Biller | $51,140* | Optional (CPB, CBCS, or CHBME) | 9–18 months (certificate or diploma) |
| Medical Coder | $51,140* | Optional (CPC, CCA, or CCS) | 9–24 months (certificate or associate) |
Therapy, Rehab & Fitness
| Trade | Median Salary (U.S.) | Certification / Licensing | Typical Training Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Occupational Therapy Assistant | $72,300* | Yes (state license via NBCOT exam) | 2 years (accredited associate degree) |
| Physical Therapy Aide | $35,240* | Optional (on-the-job + certificate programs) | 3–12 months (certificate or employer training) |
| Massage Therapist | $58,450* | Yes (state license) | 9–18 months (state-approved school) |
| Personal Trainer | $47,160* | Yes (national certification required by many employers) | 3–6 months (exam prep + practicum) |
| Life Coach | $50,860* | Optional (ICF/CCE/NBHWC certification preferred) | 6–18 months (certificate) |
| Recovery Coach | $51,850* | Varies (state peer/recovery certification often required) | 6–12 months (certificate + supervised hours) |
Animal Care & Training
| Trade | Median Salary (U.S.) | Certification / Licensing | Typical Training Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dog Trainer | $39,990* | Optional (industry certifications preferred) | 6–12 months (mentorship or certificate) |
| Veterinary Assistant | $38,150* | Optional (AVMA-approved assistant credential) | 6–12 months (certificate + hands-on experience) |
| Veterinary Technician | $47,380* | Yes (VTNE and state license) | 2 years (associate degree) |
Beauty & Personal Care
| Trade | Median Salary (U.S.) | Certification / Licensing | Typical Training Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Beauty Professional | $35,790* | Yes (state cosmetology license) | 9–15 months (state-approved school) |
| Cosmetologist | $35,790* | Yes (state cosmetology license) | 9–18 months (state-approved school) |
| Esthetician | $45,330* | Yes (state esthetics license) | 4–9 months (state-approved program) |
Culinary & Hospitality Careers
| Trade | Median Salary (U.S.) | Certification / Licensing | Typical Training Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Culinary Chef | $40,078* | Optional (ServSafe + local food handler permit) | 1–2 years (culinary school or apprenticeship) |
| Pastry Chef | $40,078* | Optional (ServSafe; ACF certification boosts prospects) | 9–18 months (baking & pastry diploma or apprenticeship) |
| Travel Agent | $50,160* | Optional (IATA/CLIA or vendor certifications) | 3–12 months (certificate + on-the-job) |
Design & Creative Careers
| Trade | Median Salary (U.S.) | Certification / Licensing | Typical Training Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Graphic Designer | $62,960* | Optional (portfolio; degree helpful) | 1–4 years (certificate or degree) |
| Interior Designer | $67,190* | Optional (NCIDQ; licensure varies by state) | 2–4 years (degree in Interior Design or related) |
| Jewelry Designer | $52,540* | Optional (GIA/JA credentials) | 6–24 months (certificate or associate) |
| Floral Designer | $37,360* | Optional (on-the-job or certificate) | 3–12 months (certificate or apprenticeship) |
Business & Legal Support
| Trade | Median Salary (U.S.) | Certification / Licensing | Typical Training Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bookkeeper | $50,670* | Optional (CB or CPB certification beneficial) | 6–12 months (certificate or on-the-job) |
| Digital Court Reporter | $72,420* | Optional (AAERT certification preferred) | 6–12 months (certificate program) |
| Paralegal | $62,890* | Optional (ABA-approved certificate beneficial) | 12–24 months (certificate or associate) |
| Legal Secretary | $55,570* | Optional (NALS ALP/CLP certification) | 6–24 months (certificate or associate) |
*Source: Data Date: May, 2025 BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) May 2025 National
Why choose a trade career?
- Strong market demand: Many skilled trades continue to see steady growth across the U.S.
- Affordable education: Training programs often cost less and take less time than traditional four-year degrees.
- Hands-on training: Ideal for people who prefer practical, technical, and active work.
- Meaningful work: Trades support essential industries that keep communities running.
How to get started
- Explore Careers: Review descriptions, training options, and any state licensing requirements.
- Find Programs: Use our Trade School Finder to locate accredited schools and training opportunities near you.
- Understand Certification: Learn about exams, licensing boards, and certifications that apply in your state.
- Plan Your Next Step: Research entry-level opportunities, apprenticeships, or continuing education options once training is complete.
Frequently asked questions about skilled trades
Do I need a license for all trades?
Not always. Some fields, such as general construction or woodworking, may not require a license in every state. Others, including electrical, HVAC, or plumbing, typically do require state-specific licensing or certification to perform certain types of work.
How much do skilled trades professionals earn?
Earnings vary by trade, experience level, and location. Many entry-level technicians earn a competitive starting wage, with additional opportunities for advancement through certifications or experience. For typical ranges, visit our national trade salary guide.
How long does trade school take?
Program length depends on the field and credential. Many certificate and diploma programs can be completed in 6 months to 2 years, while apprenticeships may include paid on-the-job learning during that time.
Which trades have steady demand?
Fields such as HVAC technology, electrical systems, and renewable energy installation are seeing consistent employer demand nationwide. The right trade for you depends on your interests, work environment preferences, and long-term goals.
Ready to explore your next career move?
Start by comparing trade programs and find the training path that fits your goals.
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/.
Data sources
Figures on this page are sourced from the federal and state datasets below. Methodology: how we rank and source data.
| Data | Provider | Vintage |
|---|---|---|
| Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) | U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics | May 2025 |
| Employment Projections | U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics | 2024-2034 |
| Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System | National Center for Education Statistics (IPEDS) | 2024 |
| College Scorecard (school-level outcomes) | U.S. Department of Education | latest release |
| College Scorecard (field-of-study earnings) | U.S. Department of Education | latest release (updated 2026-06-12) |
| Occupational licensing requirements | CareerOneStop (U.S. Department of Labor) | latest release (updated 2026-02-22) |
| Registered apprenticeship programs | CareerOneStop / Apprenticeship.gov (U.S. Department of Labor) | latest release (updated 2025-10-25) |
| O*NET occupation profiles (skills, tasks, tools, job zones) | U.S. Department of Labor (O*NET / Employment & Training Admin.) | O*NET 29.1 (updated 2026-06-13) |