I'm exploring career options after high school and interested in trade jobs. I'd love to know which trades offer competitive salaries and if any stand out as particularly high-paying. Are there any resources to find this info?
There are multiple trade jobs that offer competitive salaries, and the salary range can vary widely depending on the trade, education, and your level of experience. Remember that in many cases, such as with electricians or plumbers, you can expect to receive increased pay as you gain more years of experience or hone your skills with additional training.
Here are a few trade jobs that are generally known for good salaries:
1. Electrician: Electricians install, repair, and maintain electrical systems. After completing an electrician's apprenticeship and earning certification, you could potentially earn a median annual wage of about $56,000.
2. Plumber: Like electricians, plumbers start with an apprenticeship, and then can earn a median annual wage of about $55,000.
3. HVAC Technician: HVAC (heating, venting, and air-conditioning) technicians earn about a median annual wage of $48,000. Experience can propel this much higher, with senior technicians earning substantially more.
4. Elevator Mechanic: This is a specialty job that requires specific training and certification. The median annual wage is typically over $80,000, making it one of the higher-paying trade occupations.
As for resources, you can find more detailed information through the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. This agency provides comprehensive information about different trades, including median pay, typical entry-level education, and job outlook.
Remember, wages can vary significantly based on a number of factors including location, years of experience, and level of education/certification. Make sure to take these factors into account when conducting your research. Finally, it's important to consider not just salary, but also job satisfaction and growth opportunities in your chosen field.
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