The Future Of High-Paying Trade Jobs: Which Trade Skills Will Be Most Valuable?
In today’s modern work culture, how we approach our careers has changed and will continue to change. The typical four-year degrees can still be very effective in the right market, but they are not always necessary if you plan on working in a particular trade that is based more on hands-on work. Getting certified in these skills typically takes less time, and learning them requires more work done “in the field.” With that in mind, we at NSHSS thought it might be good to lay out a comprehensive list of trade-based skills to get certified if this is the path you choose to take. Remember that these skills are not subjugated to just one career path, and we encourage you to approach any career with an open mind. You never know where your skills will lead you!
1. Electrician
Electricians are a key player in the technology field. They are responsible for anything from fixing circuit breakers to repairing power lines and inspecting transformers.
Salary: $57,000
2. Plumbers/Pipefitters
Whatever building you find yourself in, chances are you will find an elaborate piping system behind the walls. This skill is integral to the structure and functionality of any building project. That is why this skill is needed so heavily for any construction job.
Salary: $61,000
3. IT Support
As the world of technology grows and expands, the IT world will always need trained professionals with technical support experience. This role is responsible for a company’s computer and wifi systems. They are the back-end for any business that uses the internet in any capacity, and the need for this position and the skills that come with it have never been more in demand. And its only growing larger.
Salary: $52,000
4. Aircraft Mechanic
Flying is a dangerous and expensive endeavor. The aviation industry is never short on work to do, and they always need skilled mechanics to help maintain their wide-ranging inventory. An aircraft mechanic does exactly that: they get to work on airplanes! By learning the tools of the trade, you too could get a chance to experience the technical and logistical ins and outs of flying!
Salary: $70,000
5. Web Graphic Designer
From small businesses to major, top-of-the-line corporations, everybody has a website these days. Commerce is run by computers, and having an easy-to-use website can make all the difference. That is why learning the skills of a graphic designer can be crucial. You will find an endless amount of work available to you from all around the world. And what’s best, most of these jobs can be done all around the world remotely!
Salary: $53,000
6. Heavy Equipment Mechanic
If you’ve lived in any city long enough, you’ve probably noticed how often they’re changing. What you probably haven’t noticed is just how big of a project these construction jobs really are. They require large trucks, cranes, Bobcats, and steamrollers to facilitate the massive amount of work. But these machines cannot be operated by just anyone. Earning your certification in this field will provide you the chance to be a part of fascinating projects in just about any city.
Salary: $56,000
7. HVAC
Hot or cold, rain or shine, the Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning industry is always on-call. From large buildings to one-bedroom apartments, these men and women are trained to take care of your heating and cooling needs. They are responsible for diagnosing any and all issues related to the temperature of your building—which we all know is crucial to everyday comfort.
Salary: $64,000
8. Ultrasound Technician
Often called a ‘Sonographer,’ this role is very important to the health and happiness of mothers and their unborn babies. They are responsible for utilizing enhanced imaging software and sound waves to produce images of an unborn baby still in the womb. This role requires a delicate hand with the mothers and fathers but also a good deal of technical expertise. And as newer radiology technology is released, it is more crucial than ever to get technically certified to perform your role well.
Salary: $78,000
9. Dental Hygienist
We’ve all been to the dentist as kids and felt the fear of some stranger poking around our teeth. A dental hygienist's role is crucial to young children's development and older adults' health. They clean your teeth, floss your teeth, take X-Rays, identify cavities, and can even help diagnose gum disease if the situation arises. These roles require strict attention to detail during the training process, and a soft approach to the patients when the job is being performed.
Salary: $82,000
10. Tattoo Artist
You may have noticed that more and more people are getting tattoos than ever before. This is not just a trend but a new evolution in the beauty industry. And, given the proliferation of the aesthetic, there is a growing need for talented and trained tattoo artists. In this role, it is incredibly important to have a good eye, still hands, and patience with the variety of clients you might encounter. Many tattoo artists are known to have their own studio, with a client list that knows and trusts them. But with the rise in this artistry, there are also tattoo studios who hire artists outright to work on all kinds of clients.
Salary: $60,000
When it comes to deciding on your future career path, it is best to think about two very important things: what skills you already have and what you hope to learn more about. If you have a computer knack, you could look into IT Support; if aviation has always been your passion, you can explore the world of Aviation Mechanics. Having a skill that you want to work harder on can get you very far, but having a passion for the field you’d be working in can take you even further. Remember that no matter what interests you the most or where you want to end up, it all comes down to what makes you happy to do a job well done! For more insight into trade jobs and their required skills, take a look at our latest NSHSS blogs on the importance of trade schools.