So, you’re an entrepreneur on business number four or maybe five, and you don’t understand why another genius idea of yours isn’t gaining the traction you know it deserves. Or perhaps you’re a serial student considering degree number three. You can create a bomb class schedule with a built-in nap, but you have yet to be in the field. You could even be a person trying to figure things out, working random job after job–from call center to restaurant hostess to dog walker.
At this point, I suggest it’s time for some intention and action. Action in the sense of career trajectory: I’m talking about paychecks that cover all of your bills, being the creator of your own schedule, and the opportunity for definite upward mobility. Not to mention a wealth of knowledge in demanding fields.
This all leads us to the wonderful world of trades. If you don’t already know, trades allow you to have immediate satisfaction from the fruits of your labor. Since most trades are hands-on, they offer a direct impact; you can see your skills and expertise come to life.
Lately, trade has increased as industries have a growing need for skilled tradespeople. First, their education is highly cost-effective and time-saving. Tradespeople are also crucial to the economy, which automatically translates to the potential of job security. Most trades are essential to building infrastructure. Now, people are beginning to realize that the earning potential for trades can sometimes be the equivalent of those with four-year degrees. Putting in half the time to earn just as much sounds like a win.
Here are five popular trades worth jumping into and setting yourself up to win:
1. Master the Electrician World
Becoming an electrician might light up your career path if you have a knack for problem-solving and enjoy working with your hands. Electricians are always in demand, guaranteeing that homes and businesses stay powered up. With the rise of renewable energy, there’s an exciting opportunity to specialize in solar panel installation or electric vehicle charging stations. Plus, the median salary is nothing to sneeze at, often reaching upwards of $60,000 annually.
2. Become a Plumbing Prodigy
Water is life, and plumbers are the unsung heroes who keep it flowing smoothly. This trade offers job security and the chance to work in various settings, from residential homes to large commercial projects. The average salary for plumbers is around $61,000. Some of the best-paid plumbers, especially those with a lot of experience, the right certifications, and maybe even their own businesses, can pull in over $100,000 a year.
3. Master the Art of Carpentry
If you love creating and building, carpentry could be your calling. Carpenters are essential in construction, crafting everything from the framework of buildings to intricate woodwork. This trade allows for creativity and precision, and with the growing trend of custom home builds and renovations, skilled carpenters are in high demand. Expect a median salary of about $56,000, with opportunities to increase as you sharpen your craft.
4. Love to the HVAC Heros!
Heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) technicians are key in maintaining comfortable and energy-efficient environments. As climate control systems become more advanced, there’s a need for skilled technicians who can install, maintain and repair these systems. The median salary for HVAC technicians is approximately $57,000, with the potential for growth as you specialize in areas like green technology or smart home systems.
5. Be a Welding Wiz
Welding is a trade that combines art and science, requiring precision and skill to join metals together. The perfect mix for those who are both left and right-minded thinkers. Welders are needed in various industries, from construction to automotive manufacturing. With the rise of infrastructure projects and the need for skilled labor, welders are in high demand. The average salary is around $48,000, but when you double down on your specialized skills (as with most of these trades), welders can earn loads more, surpassing the six-figure marker.
The takeaway? If you’re feeling any kind of confusion about the next steps in your career, use time to your advantage. Get into a trade and specialize in something to boost your uniqueness and raise your salary. Adding a trade to your experience is a surefire win. You can always step away and do something else, but the skill lives forever.
