How to find high-paying skilled trades with short certification times?

I want to enter a skilled trade but prefer one with a relatively short certification process and promising pay. Which trades should I consider, and is there a quick path to getting certified?

There are a few skilled trades that you might consider if you're looking for quick certifications and promising pay.

1. Commercial Truck Driving: It requires a Commercial Drivers License (CDL), which can be obtained through a training program that can last between 3 and 12 weeks. The pay for truck drivers is quite decent and there is always a demand for them.

2. HVAC Technicians: You could consider becoming an HVAC technician. The certification process can take as little as 6 months, and HVAC technicians are in high demand. Once certified, technicians can earn a good income and may have opportunities for overtime, bonuses, and advancement.

3. Electricians: You can start working as an electrician apprentice immediately after high school. Completing an electrician apprenticeship can take about four years because it combines on-the-job training (around 2,000 hours annually) with classroom instruction. However, apprentices are paid and see salary increases as they gain experience.

4. Welders: If you like hands-on work and don't mind high heat, consider becoming a welder. Welding certifications typically take between a few weeks to several months, and you can specialize in particular types of welding, which could increase your income potential.

5. Phlebotomists: They draw blood for tests, donations, or transfusions. Certifications can be obtained in less than a year, and phlebotomists are needed in various settings, such as hospitals, blood donation centers, and clinics.

As for the pathway to certification, usually the route involves hands-on training through a vocational or technical school, or a community college. These institutions often offer fast-track programs designed to meet the demand for these trades in the workforce.

Just be mindful that while these trades offer short certification times, true mastery often comes with experience, so you'll likely want to continue learning and honing your skills even after certification.

Note that while these trades can be lucrative, they also can require physical strength and flexibility, and might involve working in potentially hazardous conditions. Be sure to fully research and understand the job responsibilities and work environment before deciding on a career path.

Remember, the aim of finding a skilled trade should not only be based on earning potential but also on whether you would enjoy the work as well. It is crucial to find something that suits your unique interests and skills.