How to Get into the Trades with No Experience

If you feel stuck in a dead-end job or want a career with better pay, stability, and room to grow, a skilled trade could be your answer. It’s true that in order to earn well you will need experience, but it is possible to get started in the trades making a reasonable income with no experience.

The secret? An apprenticeship school! 

An apprenticeship program will pay you while you learn allowing you to get started right away while gaining the experience to maximize your income down the road. Here at the UA Local 486, we offer an apprenticeship program that trains you while you earn, providing a direct path to a high-paying career in plumbing, pipefitting, and HVAC.

Whether you’re looking for a career change, just graduating high school, or realizing that college isn’t for you, a trade can give you the hands-on skills and financial security you’re looking for.

What Is an Apprenticeship School?

As we mentioned, an apprenticeship program is a great way to start getting paid in the trades right away even if you don’t have experience. But what is it?  

An apprenticeship is a structured training program that teaches you the trade through classroom education and real-world experience. Instead of paying tuition, you’ll get paid to train under experienced professionals while attending specialized courses.

And while it is considered a “school” it’s not just for young adults or current high school graduates. It is also a great place for those looking to transition or build a new career even if they’ve been in the workforce for several years already. 

Every apprenticeship is different, but you can use our training program as an example of what to expect. Our apprenticeship provides:

Paid Training – You’ll start earning a paycheck from day one. No unpaid internships or costly training programs.

Growing Income - Our apprentices work hard and we ensure they’re paid for their efforts. Each year as they progress through their the program their income rises with 5th years earning up to $133,000 a year.

Zero Student Debt – Unlike college, we don’t charge tuition. You’ll graduate debt-free with a high-paying career.

Expert Instruction – Learn directly from skilled tradespeople who have years of industry experience.

Certifications & Career Placement – Upon completion, you’ll be a certified journeyman, qualified for high-paying jobs with great benefits.

There are other ways to get into the trades with no experience, but an apprenticeship makes it easy while providing the necessary training to excel later in your career.

Comparing Ways to Get into the Trades with No Experience

We love our apprenticeship program, but not everyone will have that option, or it might not be the best option for them at this moment. Below we’ve highlighted a couple of different options when these options would make sense for you.

1. Join a Registered Apprenticeship Program (Best Option!)

As we discussed above, a union apprenticeship is the most structured and reliable way to break into the trades with no experience. These programs offer:

• Paid On-the-Job Training

• Classroom Instruction and On The Job Training 

• Certifications & Licenses 

• Zero Student Debt

It’s important to note that each of the programs offers different trainings and certifications, so check to ensure that the program aligns with your desired career.

Who should apply?

• Career changers stuck in low-wage or dead-end jobs
• High school graduates who want an alternative to college
• College students who realize a degree isn’t for them
• Military veterans transitioning
• Anyone who wants to get paid while learning a skilled trade

2. Get an Entry-Level Job or Helper Position

Many trade companies hire entry-level helpers with little to no experience. You can start as a plumber’s assistant, construction laborer, or HVAC helper and learn on the job.

• Pros: You can start right away and get hands-on experience.

• Cons: Pay is usually lower, and training may not be structured or provided at all.

How to get hired?

• Look for “apprentice” or “helper” jobs on job boards.
• Reach out to local trade companies and ask if they’re hiring trainees.
• Show up motivated, reliable, and ready to work hard!

You may need some knowledge or skills in order to get brought on as a helper, but that’s not always the case. While the pay can start off on the low side, if you stick with the company you will likely have a job waiting for you once established.

3. Attend a Trade School or Vocational Program

Trade schools offer short-term programs in fields like plumbing, welding, carpentry, and HVAC. These schools provide classroom learning with some hands-on training.

• Pros: You’ll gain skills and may earn a certification.

• Cons: You’ll have to pay tuition, and there’s no guaranteed job placement.

This can be best for you if: 

• People who want a faster training option (6 months to 2 years).
• Those who prefer a structured classroom setting before jumping into the field.

Trade schools and vocational programs often allow you to receive specialized focused training without the extra schooling. There also tend to be more trade school opportunities available for those who do not have a skilled trades apprenticeship nearby. 

Your Future Starts Today

The trades offer a great opportunity for anyone who wants to start building a new career. If you believe a career in the trades is a good fit for you, we encourage you to take the leap and get started whether you have experience or not. Find what opportunities are available in your area today.

If you live in Maryland or Delaware and are looking for a stable, high-paying career with zero student debt, great benefits, and room for growth, a UA Local 486 apprenticeship is the perfect opportunity. No experience? No problem! We’ll train you from the ground up and set you on the path to success.

Ready to take the first step?