Considering different career paths post-high school, and I'm really interested in trades in Indiana. What's considered to be the highest paying trade job here that might offer a good salary without college?
In Indiana, here are some of the high paying trade careers:
1. Elevator Mechanic: This is one of the highest paying skilled trades. These professionals install, repair, and maintain elevators, escalators, and moving walkways. Most elevator mechanics complete a 4-year apprenticeship program, and licensure may be required in certain areas.
2. Electrical Power-Line Installer: These professionals install, repair, and maintain power line networks, including easily recognized high towers or neighborhood electricity lines. A high school diploma and apprenticeship program are usually needed for this job.
3. Boilermaker: Boilermakers create, assemble, maintain, and repair boilers, vats, and other large vessels that hold liquids and gases. A high school diploma and apprenticeship program or technical/vocational school certificate would be beneficial.
4. Plumber, pipefitter, or steamfitter: Plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters are high in demand due to the critical nature of their work in residential, commercial, and industrial spaces. Most workers enter the field through a 4-5 year apprenticeship.
5. Construction and Building Inspectors: While not exactly a trade in the traditional sense, construction and building inspection is a critical job enriched with hands-on work experience, requiring city or state certification.
6. Industrial Machinery Mechanics: They ensure that machines continue to operate smoothly in factories, power plants, and industrial sites. A high school diploma, technical/vocational school certificate, or an associate degree in industrial maintenance technology might be advantageous.
Typically, these trade jobs offer good salaries and only require high school education alongside some form of apprenticeship or certification. However, it's essential to carry out extensive research on each trade, its requirements, and future prospects before making a final decision.
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