Why Building Trades is a Smart Career Choice

The skilled trades sector is often overlooked regarding career options. However, there are many reasons why high school and college students should consider building trades as a viable career choice. This article will outline the benefits of pursuing a career in the skilled trades and the education required to excel in this field.

myths related to skilled trades

Despite the benefits of pursuing a career in the skilled trades, some many myths and misconceptions discourage young people from considering this field. Here are a few of the most common myths:

Skilled trades are low-skilled and low-paying jobs

This is perhaps the most pervasive myth about the skilled trades. In reality, many skilled trades require high expertise and offer competitive wages. Many tradespeople can earn a comfortable living and even support a family with their earnings.

Skilled trades are only for men

While it’s true that men make up most of the skilled trades workforce, this is changing rapidly. Women are increasingly entering the trades and finding success. Many initiatives also aim to encourage more women and other underrepresented groups to pursue careers in the skilled trades.

Skilled trades are dirty and dangerous

While some trades, such as welding or electrical work, have inherent risks, safety is a top priority in the skilled trades. Many tradespeople wear protective gear and follow strict safety protocols to minimize the risk of injury. Additionally, many trades are not necessarily “dirty” and can be clean and precise.

Skilled trades are not in demand

This myth couldn’t be further from the truth. As mentioned earlier, skilled trades are in high demand, and this is only projected to increase in the coming years. With an aging workforce and a need for sustainable infrastructure, skilled tradespeople are more important than ever.

Many myths and misconceptions about skilled trades discourage young people from pursuing careers in this field. By dispelling these myths and highlighting the benefits of the skilled trades, we can encourage more young people to consider this fulfilling and lucrative career path.

Below we’ll talk about some of the benefits.

Job Stability and High Demand

Job stability is one of the main benefits of pursuing a career in a building trade. As long as there are buildings and infrastructure, skilled tradespeople will always need to maintain and repair them. The demand for skilled trades is high and projected to increase in the coming years due to an aging workforce and an increasing need for sustainable infrastructure.

Hands-on Experience and Creativity

For students who enjoy working with their hands and solving problems, the building trades offer an excellent opportunity to develop these skills. Skilled tradespeople work with various tools and materials to design, build, and repair structures. A great deal of creativity is involved in the skilled trades, and the satisfaction of seeing a project come to life is gratifying.

Education and Training

While some building trades may require formal education, such as an apprenticeship or trade school, many positions offer on-the-job training. This means that students can enter the workforce with minimal student loan debt and earn a livable wage while they learn. Additionally, many unions and trade organizations offer education and training programs to help members develop skills to excel in their chosen profession.

High Earning Potential

Another benefit of pursuing a career in the skilled trades is the potential for high earnings. Skilled tradespeople are in high demand, and their expertise commands a premium wage. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for construction and extraction occupations was $47,430 in May 2020. Some skilled tradespeople earn well over $100,000 per year.

Conclusion

In conclusion, skilled trades offer high school and college students a stable and rewarding career path. With the increased demand for skilled tradespeople, hands-on experience, and high earning potential, it is easy to see why building trades are a brilliant career path. Whether you pursue formal education or on-the-job training, the building trades offer a fulfilling and lucrative career that can provide a lifetime of job satisfaction.