I've heard that some trade school careers can lead to six-figure salaries. Is this actually true, or is it just rare exceptions? If so, what are some examples of these high-earning jobs?
Yes, it's true that certain trade careers can lead to six-figure salaries. It might not be the norm across all trades, but several fields do have the potential to reach such levels of income. This typically occurs with years of experience and higher skill levels, rather than immediately following graduation from a trade school.
One high-earning trade career is an Elevator Installer/Repairer. Their role is crucial in maintaining the efficiency of elevators and escalators. The median salary for this role is around $102,410, but experienced individuals working in busy urban areas can earn well over $120,000.
A comparable high-earning trade is a Nuclear Power Reactor Operator. This position requires managing the systems that generate power in a nuclear power plant. Given the high-stakes nature of this job, it often requires extensive training and experience. Salaries vary depending on location and experience, but the median was $120,350 in 2023.
While these are just a couple of examples, there are many other high-earning roles available in trade careers. Keep in mind that these fields often require specialized training either through an apprenticeship or a vocational school, and, in many cases, salaries increase with years of experience and professional development. Also note that salary figures can change based on various factors such as the cost of living in different regions, fluctuations in demand for certain trades, and changes in industry regulations.
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