I'm considering going into a trade after high school instead of college. What are currently some of the best trade jobs in America in terms of salary and demand? I'm open to different fields, just want to make an informed decision.
It's great to see that you're keeping an open mind about your future and considering all available paths. Right now, there are several trade careers that boast high salaries and are in high demand. Here are a few:
1. Elevator Installers and Repairers: With a median annual wage of around $102,420 as of 2023 per the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), this job tops the list. This trade involves the installation, maintenance, and repair of elevators, escalators, moving walkways, and similar equipment.
2. Nuclear Technicians: This position entails assisting physicists, engineers, and other professionals in nuclear research and nuclear energy production. According to BLS, the median annual wage in 2023 was approximately $101,740.
3. Electrical and Electronics Repairers: People in this profession work on powerhouses, substations, and relay electrical equipment, making sure it's running well. The median annual wage in 2023 was $109,010.
4. Boilermakers: Specializing in assembling, installing, and repairing boilers and other containers that often involve gas or liquid pressure, the median annual wage for boilermakers was $71,140 in 2023.
5. Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters: Though these are technically three separate trades, they all involve pipe systems. Plumbers install and repair water supply lines and waste disposal systems, while pipefitters and steamfitters handle more complex systems. The median annual wage for these professions was $61,550 in 2023.
Before deciding, remember that these professions often require years of on-the-job training or apprenticeships, so it's worth researching and considering what the training for each involves. Choosing a trade career can offer a promising and profitable future, so good luck in your research and eventual decision-making!
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