How Long Does It Take to Learn a Trade Skill?

If you’re considering learning a trade skill, you might be wondering: how long does it take? The answer depends on the path you take, the trade you choose, and the level of expertise you aim to achieve. While you can pick up the basics of some trade skills and even get a job in just a short period of time, true mastery takes years of practice and hands-on experience.

Below we provide some paths to learning a new trade to help you better understand the time it might take to learn a skill and earn a living with your new skill. 

The Quickest Training is Through Trade Schools and Certification Programs

Many trade schools and certification programs offer structured training that can get you job-ready in two years or less. These programs are great for those looking for faster entry into the workforce, but you will likely end up as a helper earning a lower wage.

The level of training received will depend on the program. Some provide hands-on training with specialized labs while others spend a lot of time discussing theory and requiring much “class work”

Finding a good program can help you get started in your career quickly but do your research first before joining just any trade school program. 

Apprenticeship Programs: A Longer but More In-Depth Path

For those who want more extensive training with real-world experience, an apprenticeship program is the way to go. These programs take longer, typically four to five years, but they offer a combination of classroom instruction and on-the-job training. 

In addition to on-the-job training, apprentices will earn competitive wages and benefits.

For example, at the UA Local 486 Apprenticeship School in Maryland, our five-year program provides real on-the-job training where apprentices can learn while they earn a real salary. Our apprentices don’t just learn the theory of their trades. They learn the necessary skills while working side by side with skilled journeymen and masters on real job sites. Many of our graduates have a good paying job waiting for them as soon as they graduate. 

Rather than starting as a helper or at an entry-level job, an apprentice will graduate as a journeyman allowing them to get nearly any job in their field. 

The Timeframe Depends on the Trade

We discussed the timeline for various training programs but the time to learn a trade can depend on the actual trade itself. Knowing this can help you decide which path is best for you. For instance:

• Electricians typically complete four to five years of apprenticeship.
• HVAC technicians can get certified in as little as six months to two years.
• Plumbers often train for four to five years through apprenticeships.
• Welders may complete a certification program in six months to two years, but mastery can take much longer.

While you can learn a skill and get certified in as little as six months, it may not create job opportunities for you immediately. Your current and future goals will help you discover which route is best to take. 

Choosing the Right Path for You

Whether you choose a trade school or an apprenticeship program, the key is to find the right fit for your career goals. If you’re eager to start working sooner, trade schools and certifications provide a quicker path. If you want to develop deeper skills and increase your earning potential, an apprenticeship program like UA Local 486 is a solid choice.

No matter which route you take, investing in a trade skill is a smart decision that can lead to a stable and rewarding career. Are you located in Maryland and ready to get started? Explore our apprenticeship program today!