Best technical trade jobs for high school grads?

I'm thinking about exploring technical trade jobs instead of the usual college route. What are some of the best technical trade jobs available for someone coming straight out of high school? Any recommendations or insights would be really helpful.

There are several technical trade jobs available that do not necessarily require a college degree and can still enable you to have a successful and rewarding career. Here are some popular options:

1. Plumber: Plumbers are high in demand, and you can start as an apprentice right out of high school. You'll learn on the job alongside an experienced plumber. Once you've completed an apprenticeship, you can become a licensed plumber.

2. Electrician: Much like plumbers, electricians start as apprentices and work their way up. The work can be complex and requires attention to detail, but it's a stable trade with a steady demand.

3. HVACR Technician: These professionals, who work on heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems, also often start as apprentices. The job can be physically demanding, and learning about the increasingly complex systems can take time, but it's an in-demand trade.

4. Welder: High school grads can start with a quick certification in welding and spend time on the job honing their skills. Advanced opportunities in underwater welding or aerospace welding can be pursued with additional certifications, opening the path to unique and high-paying jobs.

5. Automotive Mechanic: For those who love cars, becoming an automotive technician could be a great fit. You can start at an apprenticeship, or a postsecondary program, before becoming fully certified.

6. Wind Turbine Technicians: If sustainable energy interests you, consider becoming a wind turbine technician. This role may require some postsecondary training, but the sector is growing rapidly, opening ample job opportunities.

7. Telecommunications Equipment Installer: These professionals set up and maintain devices that carry communications signals, such as telephone lines and Internet routers. It's a rapidly growing field due to the constant need for communications infrastructure upkeep and development.

Each of these positions involves hands-on training through apprenticeships or vocational programs, and they offer solid opportunities for advancement and financial stability. Make sure to research each career path thoroughly, to understand the specifics of entering the field and the prospects for growth.