I've been hearing a lot about skilled trades as a great career option after high school. What are some of the best paying skilled trade jobs for someone just starting out?
There are a variety of skilled trade jobs that can offer great pay right out of school. Here are a few options:
1. Electricians: As an electrician, you would install, maintain, and repair electrical power and lighting systems. On average, beginner electricians can make around $40,000 to $60,000 per year.
2. Plumbers: If you choose to be a plumber, you'd have duties like installing and repairing pipes for water and gas systems. Entry-level plumbers usually earn between $30,000 to $60,000 a year.
3. Elevator Mechanics: This trade involves installing, repairing, and maintaining elevators, escalators, and similar equipment. It's one of the top paying skilled jobs, with the entry-level salary ranging around $40,000 to $70,000.
4. HVAC Technicians: If you choose this route, you'd be installing, maintaining, and fixing heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems. Beginners can expect to make somewhere between $30,000 and $45,000 per year.
5. Welders: Welding involves joining metal parts together. Entry-level welders can expect to earn about $30,000 to $40,000 a year.
Remember, with each of these trades, you won't only learn on the job, but also through apprenticeships and technical schools. As you gain more experience, your earning potential increases. However, it's important to note that these figures can vary significantly based on factors like region, certification level, and a worker's amount of experience.
CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.