Indiana's top trade jobs

I live in Indiana, and I'm thinking about pursuing a trade instead of going straight to college. What are some of the top trade jobs currently in demand here? I'm looking for suggestions on trades with good job prospects.

Great to hear you're considering a trade career right after high school, as these careers can offer excellent job prospects and competitive wages. Here in Indiana, there are several in-demand trades that could be a good fit.

1. HVAC Technicians: Indiana often experiences diverse weather, ranging from hot, humid summers to cold, snowy winters. This creates a high demand for Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) technicians who can install, repair, and maintain these systems.

2. Electricians: As new homes and businesses are built and existing ones are renovated, electricians are needed. They can work in various settings, from residential to commercial and even industrial.

3. Welders: Indiana's manufacturing industry has a steady demand for skilled welders. From vehicle production to manufacturing equipment, the opportunities for employment are vast.

4. Plumbers: Everyone relies on functioning plumbing, making this career path quite resilient, with stable demand year-round.

5. Diesel Mechanics: Given Indiana's strong logistics and transportation sector, there's an ongoing need for mechanics who can service diesel vehicles, especially commercial trucks.

6. Construction and Extraction Occupations: This includes jobs like operating engineers and other construction equipment operators, which are needed for various construction projects across the state.

Remember, these are just a few examples. Depending on your interests, there might be other trade jobs that are a better fit for you. Regardless of which trade you pursue, apprenticeships are a great way to earn while you learn, allowing you to gain hands-on experience while training under a skilled tradesperson. As trade jobs are in high demand, this route also offers excellent job security.