Explore the Trades

Real BLS salary data for 10 in-demand trades. No college degree required for any of them.

Select two trades to compare them side-by-side.

⚡

Electrician

The trade that powers everything.

Median salary$61,590
Apprenticeship4–5 years
License requiredYes
License RequiredVery High DemandEV & Solar BoomStrong Union (IBEW)

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🔧

Plumber

Every building needs it. Not everyone can do it.

Median salary$61,550
Apprenticeship4–5 years
License requiredYes
License RequiredHigh DemandRecession-ResistantGas Work = Extra Income

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❄️

HVAC Technician

Keep the world comfortable.

Median salary$57,300
Apprenticeship3–5 years
License requiredYes
License RequiredVery High DemandFastest-Growing TradeClimate Change Tailwind

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🔥

Welder

If it's metal, you build it.

Median salary$47,540
Apprenticeship1–3 years
License requiredNo
No License RequiredEntry in 6 MonthsHigh Physical DemandSpecialization = Premium Pay

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🪵

Carpenter

You can see your work from the street.

Median salary$53,230
Apprenticeship3–4 years
License requiredNo
No License RequiredMost Versatile TradeHigh Physical DemandStrong Path to Contracting

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🔩

Pipefitter

Industrial systems run because of you.

Median salary$61,550
Apprenticeship5 years
License requiredYes
License RequiredHigh DemandIndustrial OT Pays WellLongest Apprenticeship (5 yrs)

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🏗️

Sheet Metal Worker

Precision fabrication meets skilled installation.

Median salary$57,720
Apprenticeship4–5 years
License requiredNo
No License RequiredShop + Field Work MixHigh Physical DemandStrong Union (SMART)

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🏢

Ironworker

You build what everyone else works inside.

Median salary$63,480
Apprenticeship3–4 years
License requiredNo
No License RequiredWorks at Extreme HeightsHighest Physical DemandBig-Project OT Pays Well

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🛗

Elevator Mechanic

The highest-paid trade in the building.

Median salary$99,000
Apprenticeship4–5 years
License requiredYes
License RequiredHighest Median Salary of Any TradeVery Competitive to EnterBest-in-Class Pension

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⚙️

Industrial Mechanic

When the machines stop, you get called.

Median salary$61,420
Apprenticeship4–5 years
License requiredNo
No License RequiredStable Industrial WorkPLC Skills = Higher PayLess Seasonal Than Construction

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