When you’re thinking about a career change, or a job to take on after high school, which types of jobs do you think of first? If most of your work ideas revolve around an office, you probably aren’t thinking about Skilled Trades jobs.
So, what are Skilled Trades? At the most basic level, a skilled trade is any job that requires a specialized skill, usually obtained through a technical school, college, or on-the-job training, like an apprenticeship or internship.
Skilled Trades usually don’t require a four-year degree. However, some may require a certification or license earned through a school or state agency. Some require associate degrees.
Often, you’ll see Skilled Trades broken down into categories, with a variety of jobs in each category, including:
- Industrial: welders, fabricators, machinists, pipefitters
- Construction: electricians, cement and concrete finishers, drywall, carpentry
- Motive Power: engine mechanics, electrical systems technicians, heavy-duty equipment repair, paint and body technicians
- Transportation: commercial drivers, heavy equipment operators
- Services: hair stylist, property and building maintenance, electronic service technician, field technician, computer repair technicians, kennel assistance, and chefs
So, now that you know what the Skilled Trades are, what are some good reasons to pursue them?
Lower Tuition
According to Admissionsly, the cost of a college degree ranges from about $20,000 to $63,000 or more per academic year. Contrast this with the tuition of a trade school, where average fees range from up to $20,000+ per year, according to SoFi, with most trade schools offering two-year programs.
High Pay
Salaries vary based on experience, location, and inudstry demand. A career in Skilled Trades often provides job opportunities, the able to relocate to a new market, and the ability to learn new skills. Typically, as your experience grows, so does your paycheck.
Job Satisfaction
If you don’t thrive in an office environment, the Skilled Trades might be for you. Many positions involve working as part of a team and others offer a different, more independent work setting. If you like working with your hands, Skilled Trades frequently offer an opportunity to do that. You’re also free from having to navigate office politics if that isn’t your thing.
You Can Be Your Own Boss
While you’re certainly free to work for a company if you’d like, many tradespeople work for themselves and start their own companies. That means you choose how much you charge, when you work, and what clients you want to work with. That way, you can spend more time with family. You can have your own home office, and you won’t have to spend any time in a cubicle.
Just like any other job, a position in Skilled Trades isn’t for everyone. But if it is right for you, you might find a fulfilling career you hadn’t considered before.
About Express Employment Professionals
Express helped 63,000 job seekers find Skilled Trades jobs in 2024 and has put more than 11 million people to work in its over 40 years as a leading staffing company. Each of our more than 870 locations is individually owned and locally operated. Contact the office nearest you to find your next Skilled Trades role.
Last Updated on August 22, 2025
