Trade Jobs in the USA: Which Ones Pay the Most?

I'm considering a future in trade jobs right here in the United States. I've heard some of them can be quite lucrative. Which trade jobs in the USA tend to pay the most, and how can I prepare for them while I'm still in high school?

There are certainly several trade jobs in the U.S. that pay well. Here are a few top-earning ones that you might want to look into:

1. Elevator Installers and Repairers: This job involves installing, fixing, and maintaining elevators, escalators, moving walkways, and similar machinery. The median annual wage for this trade is significantly high.

2. Power Line Installers and Repairers: These professionals install and repair electrical power systems and telecommunications cables. This work can be physically demanding and requires a strong understanding of electrical systems, but can be quite lucrative.

3. Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters: These professions center around installing and fixing pipe systems. This work can be complex, especially when working with HVAC systems or gas lines, and the pay tends to reflect that complexity.

4. Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians: These professionals perform preventative maintenance, repairs, and inspections on aircraft. It's a high responsibility role with good pay, considering the safety of passengers depends on their work.

If you're interested in these types of careers, you can start preparing while still in high school. Many trade jobs require specific technical skills which you can start to acquire through vocational or technical classes if your school offers them. Courses in basic mechanics, engineering principles, or electricity, for example, can provide a good foundation.

Additionally, gaining practical experience can be beneficial. Part-time work, summer jobs, or internships where you learn the basics of construction, electronics, or working with tools can be incredibly valuable.

Remember, once you've graduated from high school, you'll usually need to complete an apprenticeship or a postsecondary education program specific to the trade you want to enter. These programs often combine classroom instruction with on-the-job training, offering an effective and hands-on way to prepare for your future career. It's also worth noting that some trades require certification or licensing, so you'll want to factor that into your plans as well.

The more you learn and experience now, the better prepared you'll be to make an informed decision about which trade best fits your interests and career goals.