What drives the American economy?

This may seem like a difficult question to answer. However, we can focus on individual aspects that support the economy like the pillars of a building – today’s pillar is trade workers. These workers are the “boots on the ground” people of industrial businesses, and in many ways, drive the US economy.  They are currently irreplaceable! That said, there are still a handful of positions in the trades that remain in high demand today.

Electricians

A meaningful career choice, Electricians can earn an average of nearly $57,000 per year (about $27 per hour), as of 2020. Entry-level requirements for this position include a high school diploma at a minimum, but some electricians gain experience through an apprenticeship while others attend technical school. In the US, a license is required to become an electrician.

Robust technological advancements across all industries has increased demand for electrical work. Devices and appliances with electrical systems are becoming increasingly popular in homes and in the workplace, making electricians more in demand, requiring electrical maintenance.

The US Bureau of Labor Statistics cites the job outlook for Electricians to grow at an average of 9% over the next decade. sIf you are interested in pursuing a career as an electrician, please navigate through the links below:

How to Become an Electrician
Best Electrician Schools and Programs

Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration (HVACR) Mechanics

Mechanics in this specialty field maintain and install air conditioning, heating, ventilation, and refrigeration units.

The US Bureau of Labor Statistics expects these roles to grow at least 5% over the next decade (at least!)

HVACR Mechanics work in environments that are very hot or cold, due to heating and cooling systems not working properly. They must also be prepared to work in cramped spaces and during irregular hours. These reasons have caused high turnover rates for many companies over time. However, just two years ago (2020), the median pay for these positions was about over $50,000 annually.

If you are interested in becoming an HVACR Mechanic, follow the below links to learn more:

How to Become an HVACR Mechanic
Best HVACR Schools and Programs

Industrial Machinery Mechanics, Machinery Maintenance Workers, and Millwrights

Industrial Machinery Mechanics, Machinery Maintenance Workers, and Millwrights are also in high demand. These workers maintain and repair machinery in factory and industrial environments.

These positions generally require a high school diploma. Industrial Machinery Mechanics and Machinery Maintenance Workers usually require a year or more of on-the-job training. Millwrights are generally required to go through an apprenticeship program that lasts about four years. The 2020 median pay for these positions is just under $55,000 per year.

Workers in this industry must be prepared to use safety equipment such as safety glasses, hardhats, and earmuffs in the workplace.

Employers should be on the lookout for applicants in these positions as they will serve useful in the near future. As manufacturers grow, so will the need for floor-level workers. Industrial Machinery Mechanics, Machinery Maintenance Workers, and Millwrights will be increasingly important for manufacturers in the next decade — in fact, an anticipated growth of 19% over the next decade, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics.

If you have interest in becoming an Industrial Machinery Mechanic, Machinery Maintenance Worker, or Millwright, please navigate to the links below:

How to Become an Industrial Machinery Mechanic, Machinery Maintenance Worker, or Millwright
Best Millwright Schools and Programs

General Maintenance and Repair Worker

General Maintenance and Repair Workers generally maintain and repair machines and mechanical equipment. These positions are currently in high demand and have been for a long time!

Over the next decade, the US Bureau of Labor Statistics expects to see an 8% growth in this field.

General maintenance and repair workers can expect to carry out numerous tasks on any given day. Work environments include both indoor and outdoor locations and are responsible for the maintenance and upkeep of these locations. The median annual salary in 2020 for this position was over $40,000.

If you are interested in becoming a general maintenance and repair worker, please navigate to the link below:

How to Become a General Maintenance and Repair Worker

Electrical Power-Line Installer and Repairer

Electrical Power-Line Installers and Repairers install and repair electrical power systems and fiber optic cables. Due to its dangerous nature, apprenticeships are common in this field to equip new hires with long-term training.

Electrical Power-Line Installers and Repairers encounter numerous serious safety hazards on the job, including high-voltage electricity and extreme heights. As a result, the pay is a little higher than some of the other in-demand roles. The median compensation for an Electrical Power Line Installer and Repairer in 2020 was $75,030 yearly or $36.07 per hour.

If you are interested in becoming an Electrical Power-Line Installer and Repairer, please navigate to the links below:

How to Become an Electrical Power-Line Installer and Repairer
Best Electrical Power-Line Installer and Repairer Schools and Programs

The US economy is extremely volatile and unpredictable. Trade jobs are the much-needed backbone that drive this economy. With changing practices and expectations in the workplace, emphasis continues to be placed on trade workers. We can stay ahead of the curve by analyzing past trends and making predictive guesses as to how the economy will look in the coming years, but….life is unpredictable. These positions are among those that are projected to remain in high demand today and in the near future.