The importance of Skilled Trades workers in the economy has grown in the last few years. Most notably, the conversation reinforces the benefits of Skilled Trades as a worthwhile career path for young people. But, what are the Skilled Trades? Why is this sector receiving such focused attention, and what options do trades offer for your future?
At the most basic level, the Skilled Trades include any job that requires a specialized skill, usually obtained through a technical school, college, or on-the-job training through an apprenticeship or internship. Typically, Skilled Trades don’t require a four-year degree, but some may require a specific certification or license earned through a school or state/provincial agency in the U.S. and Canada.
Enrollment in undergraduate certificate programs jumped 9.9% in fall of 2023, according to the National Student Clearinghouse Research Center. Students are choosing shorter-term credentials over traditional degrees, and trade-related majors have grown by double digits, indicating a shift that has earned Gen Z the nickname of the “Toolbelt Generation.”
Knowing which jobs fall into this category will help you better understand the type of work you should pursue and what it will take to land the job you want. To learn more about Skilled Trades jobs, check out this video.
Express hires for a variety of Skilled Trades jobs, including:
- Forklift Driver
- Welder
- Mechanic
- CDL Driver
- CNC Machinist
- Industrial Machine Builder
- HVAC Technician
- Heavy Equipment Operator
- Carpenter
- Technician
- Facilities Maintenance
One of the benefits of a career in Skilled Trades is the ability for employees to work outside the traditional business structure. After a few years of working, learning the trade, and gaining experience and connections in the industry, nothing stops a Skilled Trades professional from working independently or owning their own business.
So, if setting your schedule or the prospect of starting something on your own gets you motivated and ready for the challenges ahead, a Skilled Trades job may just be the right path for you.
About Express
Express helped 73,200 job seekers find Skilled Trades jobs in 2023 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 860 locations is individually owned and locally operated. Contact the office nearest you to find your next job.
Express Employment International supports the Express Employment Professionals franchise and affiliated brands, including Specialized Recruiting Group and Express Healthcare Staffing. The Express franchise brand is an industry-leading, international staffing company with franchise locations in the U.S., Canada, South Africa, Australia, and New Zealand.
