Can trade jobs really offer career success without a college degree?

I keep hearing about people finding success in trade jobs without needing a college education. How true is this, and what kinds of trade careers are known for providing good stability and income without a degree?

Indeed, it is accurate that many individuals find success and stability in trade jobs without a traditional four-year college degree. A trade job, or skilled trade occupation, usually involves manual or practical work, often requiring specific training or apprenticeship programs. These jobs can indeed lead to a good income and job security as there is consistent demand for these services.

Some popular trade jobs include construction managers, electricians, plumbers, HVAC technicians, and automotive technicians. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, many of these jobs have median annual salaries above the national average.

For example, elevator installers and repairers, who often complete an apprenticeship program, earned a median annual income of $102,400 in 2023. Similarly, aircraft mechanics and service technicians, who often attend a Federal Aviation Administration-certified aviation maintenance technician school, earned a median annual wage of $75,000 in 2023.

An individual entering a trade profession typically spends less time in school and incurs less student debt than a four-year university student. This is a significant advantage, and combined with the current shortage in skilled trade workers in many parts of the country, the demand for these professions is high.

Of course, these jobs come with their own sets of challenges. They can often involve physical labor, and some, like construction and electrical work, can come with high injury rates. However, for those who enjoy working with their hands and solving real-world problems, trade jobs can provide a fulfilling and financially stable career pathway, all without requiring a traditional four-year college degree.