Considering a trade school route instead of a traditional college, but I'm curious about the salary outlook. What kind of income can I expect from various trade school jobs? I'd love to hear about any particularly high-paying ones!
Incomes can vary significantly depending on the trade, the level of training, and the region, but here are few estimates for popular trades:
- Electricians: Median wage for electricians is approximately $56,900 per year, with the top 10% earning more than $96,580.
- Plumber, Pipefitter, and Steamfitter: These tradespeople earn a median wage of roughly $55,160 per year, with the top 10% making over $98,990.
- HVAC Technician: Those specialized in Heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration mechanics and installers have a median wage around $48,730 per year, with higher earners making upwards of $77,920.
- Dental hygienist: This prevalent medical trade can yield a median salary of $76,220 per year, with the top 10% earning more than $103,340 annually.
- Radiation Therapist: This is an example of a high-paying trade job in the medical field. Radiation therapists earn a median wage of about $85,560, and the top 10% can earn over $128,630 per year.
Remember, these are median numbers, which means half of workers in these trades earn more than these figures, and half earn less. Your income will likely be affected by your location and level of experience. Specialized certifications can also impact your earning potential.
Keep in mind too that unlike in many professions requiring a traditional 4-year degree, in these trade occupations, it's often possible to start earning a full-time salary much sooner, sometimes in as little as 1-2 years after high school, which is a notable advantage.
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