What are the top trade jobs out there?

I'm considering going into a trade after high school instead of college. Can anyone tell me what some of the top trade jobs are right now? What are the benefits of choosing a trade job over a traditional college path?

Entering a trade can definitely be a rewarding and lucrative career path. Here are some important trades to consider:

1. Electrician: Electricians enjoy a high demand and can specialize in several areas like residential or commercial services. In addition, they can also move up to supervisory roles or start their own business.

2. Plumber: Plumbing is another high-demand trade, especially considering that every house and commercial building needs plumbing. Additional certification can lead to work in natural gas distribution and other specialized areas.

3. HVAC Technician: The HVAC field is growing rapidly. With the advent of smart technology in homes and commercial buildings, the need for technicians who can install, repair, and upgrade these systems is quickly expanding.

4. Automotive Mechanic: As technology continues to advance, so does the need for highly skilled mechanics who can work on a variety of vehicles, including traditional, hybrid, and electric cars.

As for the benefits over a traditional college path, trades often require less time investment to start work; for example, after a 1-2 year program, you might become an apprentice and start earning while still learning. This can also mean less debt incurred compared to a 4-year college degree. Trades can't be outsourced, meaning they often have high job security. Lastly, skilled tradespeople are in high demand, and this demand is expected to continue growing. This generally means high salary potential.

However, the trade route does not have to entirely replace a traditional college path. It's increasingly common to see people pursuing trade skills and, later on, obtaining degrees to advance into managerial roles or start their own businesses. Some might pursue a degree in a related field at the same time or after completing a trade program. There are many paths to success, depending on your interests and goals.