What defines a job as a trade job?

I'm trying to get a handle on what separates trade jobs from other types of careers. What are the key characteristics that define a job as a trade job? Any specific skills or training involved?

Trade jobs, commonly known as skilled trades or vocational jobs, are typically associated with manual labor and practical skills development but they also encompass an array of expertise beyond that. Here are some key features that characterize a trade job:

1. Skill Specialization: Trade jobs involve having a specific set of skills to perform a specific type of work. This includes skills like carpentry, plumbing, electric work, or welding, many of which can't be automated or outsourced.

2. Manual or Practical Work: Most trade jobs involve hands-on work. Whether operating machinery, casting metal, repairing a heating system, or installing electrical wiring, you'll often find yourself working directly with physical equipment or tools.

3. Vocational Training: Generally, trade jobs don't require a four-year bachelor's degree, instead they call for vocational schooling, on-the-job training, or apprenticeships. This focus on skills development allows you to learn the tricks of the trade, pun intended, often more quickly than a traditional four-year degree.

4. Licensing and Certifications: In many cases, trade jobs require certain licenses or certifications to demonstrate your competency. For instance, electricians, plumbers, and HVAC technicians often need to obtain relevant state licenses before they can legally work in the field.

There's a lot of diversity in trade jobs, from hairdressers to aircraft mechanics. Different trades can have very different work environments, skills requirements, and training paths. It's also worth noting a trade career can often offer a faster and less costly entry into the workforce, excellent job security, and competitive wages compared with careers requiring a four-year degree.