Exploring the Trades That Make Up Building Construction

When we drive past a new school, hospital, office complex, or warehouse being built, it’s easy to focus on the finished product: clean lines, solid structures, and modern systems. But behind every building is a diverse team of skilled trades professionals—each playing a critical role in bringing that structure to life. From towering commercial facilities to cozy residential homes, building construction is a team effort built on hands-on expertise and collaboration.

Are you curious about what goes into building these spaces and how to become part of it? This blog will explore the skilled trades that power construction and how you can launch a rewarding, high-paying career in the industry.

The Skilled Trades Behind Building Construction

Modern construction projects are complex and demand a wide range of trades to work together seamlessly. Here’s a breakdown of some of the essential trades involved in building construction:

1. Plumbers

Plumbers are responsible for installing and maintaining the piping systems that deliver water, remove waste, and support heating and cooling systems in buildings. In commercial settings, this work can involve large-scale plumbing systems for hospitals, high-rise buildings, and industrial facilities.

2. Steamfitters

Steamfitters specialize in high-pressure piping systems used for heating, cooling, and industrial processes. In large commercial buildings, they often install and maintain systems like boilers, chillers, and medical gas lines.

3. HVAC Technicians

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) technicians ensure comfortable and efficient indoor environments. In commercial projects, HVAC systems are more complex and require specialized knowledge to install and maintain.

4. Electricians

Responsible for installing and maintaining electrical systems, electricians ensure a building has safe and reliable power. This includes lighting, security systems, backup generators, and energy-efficient technologies.

5. Pipefitters

Pipefitters often work in commercial and industrial environments, laying out and fabricating pipes for power plants, refineries, and manufacturing facilities. They may also work with refrigeration and HVAC systems.

6. Carpenters

Carpenters build frameworks, walls, floors, and roofs. They also install doors, windows, and cabinetry. In commercial construction, they’re often involved in setting forms for concrete and building scaffolding.

7. Sheet Metal Workers

These skilled professionals install ducts for HVAC systems, fabricate roofing components, and build custom metal structures. In commercial buildings, precision and air-tight systems are key.

Your Gateway to a Career in the Trades

If you’re ready to step into a stable, hands-on career where you can build the world around you, the UA Local 486 Apprenticeship School offers the perfect entry point.

We offer comprehensive, tuition-free training in the following high-demand building construction trades:

• Plumbing
• Steamfitting
• HVAC-R (Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration)
• Welding

Our five-year registered apprenticeship programs combine classroom instruction with paid on-the-job training under experienced professionals. You’ll earn a living wage while you learn, and graduate with zero student debt and a direct path to a high-paying career in the construction industry.

Why Choose the Trades?

The construction trades aren’t just jobs, they’re lifelong careers. Our graduates have gone on to become:

• Foremen and superintendents
• Project managers
• Estimators and inspectors
• Union instructors and mentors
• Business owners and contractors

With the rise of commercial construction projects across Maryland and the country, the need for skilled tradespeople is only growing. Whether you want to help build hospitals, schools, data centers, or clean energy facilities, your career can begin right here at Local 486.

Build Your Future from the Ground Up

The construction industry doesn’t just build buildings, it builds people, skills, and futures. Whether you're fresh out of high school, transitioning from another career, or simply ready for a change, the skilled trades offer a pathway to a meaningful and financially secure life.

The UA Local 486 Apprenticeship School is ready to help you take that first step. Explore our programs, tour our training facilities, and meet the instructors who are helping shape the next generation of builders.

Ready to build your future? Learn more