What's the Least Training Required for a Trade Job?

I'm interested in trade jobs that don't require a long training period. Are there any trade jobs where you can get started quickly? I'm looking for something with minimal upfront time but still a solid career path.

Absolutely, there are several trade jobs that require less than two years of training. These include positions such as plumbing apprentices, electrician's helpers, and HVAC technician assistants. For these positions, usually, a high school diploma or equivalent is required and the rest of the training is provided on-the-job, under the supervision of an experienced professional.

A Plumbing Apprentice, for instance, typically requires a high school diploma or its equivalent. The job involves assisting a skilled plumber in installing and repairing plumbing systems while learning the trade. After some time (usually 2 to 5 years) of working as an apprentice, one can become a Journeyman Plumber and later, with more experience, a Master Plumber.

Similar to plumbing, an Electrician's Helper works under an experienced Electrician learning the skills of the trade on the job. Again, after a period of hands-on working experience and passing necessary certifying exams, one can progress from an Electrician's Helper to a Journeyman Electrician and then to a Master Electrician.

HVAC Technician Assistants help with the installation, maintenance, and repair of heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems. A high school diploma or its equivalent is usually required, with most learning occurring on the job. After gaining experience, an HVAC Technician Assistant can take certification exams to become a Certified HVAC Technician.

It's important to remember that while these trade careers can theoretically be started more quickly than occupations requiring a 4-year degree, they still require a high level of skill and knowledge that is gained through real-world experience. So, while the training period might be shorter upfront, building expertise and advancing in these careers will take time and dedication.