Is there a deficit in trade school jobs right now?

I've heard mixed things about the availability of trade school jobs. Is there an actual deficit, or is it just a misconception? I'm considering going this route but want to know what I'm getting into.

From multiple industry reports and workforce data, there indeed appears to be a skills gap in many trades. This "trade jobs deficit" typically refers to the number of open positions in various trade industries that struggle to be filled due to the lack of trained or experienced workers. This gap is often a result of increasing demand for these roles and a decrease in people pursuing trade school education or apprenticeships.

Industries such as construction, telecommunications, automotive, and others that heavily rely on skilled tradespeople are feeling this shortage the most. For example, The National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA) reported in 2021 that there will be a need for nearly 60,000 new electrical workers by 2026 due to retiring tradespeople and industry growth. Similar trends can be seen in plumbing, HVAC, and welding fields.

However, it is essential to remember that the specific job availability can vary by your location and the specific trade you're interested in. For example, while there may be a significant demand for electricians nationally, certain areas might have a saturated market. Therefore, you ought to research the demand for specific trades in your local region or where you are willing to move for work.

All of this means that pursuing a trade school education can present valuable opportunities, especially with the right skills and credentials. In response to this trade jobs deficit, many businesses and organizations are investing more in training, apprenticeship programs, and trade schools, which could benefit potential trade school students by offering more resources and opportunities to gain necessary skills.