Imagine having a fulfilling career that pays well and is always in demand. Sound too good to be true? It’s not! There are several advantages of working as a professional in the skilled trades. From being an HVAC technician to an auto body repair specialist, there are numerous open positions that are ready for the taking. As a strong advocate of careers in the trades, Malco understands the importance and benefits of these positions in the workforce. Do you know what you’re missing out on?
Why You Should Have a Job in the Skilled Trades
1. Trade School is Less Expensive and Faster to Finish
While there are many advantages to attending a college or university for a bachelor’s degree, the one major negative is the cost. Tuition expenses have skyrocketed, far outpacing the growth of the economy. Most training programs for the skilled trades last from six months to two years. Even if you were to entirely finance your education by student loans, you’d end up paying a fraction of the cost for trade school vs. a traditional four-year route at a public or private institution.
2. Trade Jobs Pay Well
A common assumption is that the income ceiling is higher for white-collar jobs than for blue-collar jobs, making those positions more desirable. Although this is true in some cases, very wealthy white-collar employees such as millionaires represent a minuscule percentage of the workforce. Overall, the income ceiling for white-collar jobs may be higher, but the median salary is actually greater for blue-collar jobs, resulting in trade pros making a consistent income that they can thrive on. In addition, the growing shortage of workers has been pushing wages up in the skilled trades, meaning that compensation will be sizable, even in the first year.
3.Skilled Trades Can’t Be Outsourced Overseas
Unfortunately, complete job security doesn’t exist. Anything can happen at any company, and you can be let go. Nowadays, many jobs can be replaced by robots or outsourced to countries with lower wages. The trades, on the other hand, can’t be outsourced. We will always need HVAC techs, carpenters, auto body repair specialists, roofing contractors, etc., to complete hands-on work on the job site. For example, a two-story house won’t be constructed overseas and shipped here.
4. Many Employment Opportunities Available with Low Competition
On top of the trade job market being very secure, there are a lot of openings for them right now. There are also many workers that will be retiring in the next 15 years. In fact, over 30% of the current workforce is over 50 years old. There will be many jobs available for those entering a trade school or finishing apprenticeships. Since office jobs are highly sought after, there is fierce competition when applying for a single position. However, skilled trade jobs have far less competition, so you have a better chance at landing a great opportunity.
5. The Satisfaction of Hands-On Work
While it is true that boredom can happen with any job, a trade professional who works with their hands all day has less opportunity for disengagement. Installing things, building things, and seeing the actual fruit of your labor can be more personally fulfilling than spending eight hours behind a desk. Depending on your position in the skilled trades, you could also get a workout on the job, which will improve your health and well-being.
In summary, a career in the skilled trades can give you the launch point you need to support yourself, your family, and to succeed for years to come.