Skilled Trades Demand and Career Outlook

Whether you are graduating from high school and looking for a post-graduation career path, or already established in the workforce and looking for a career change, skilled trades is a great career option. However, it is important to thoroughly research and understand the career outlook for skilled trades before making the switch. We know it takes a lot of time and energy to sit down and research everything, let alone interpret all of the information and make an informed decision.

This blog post will explore the current market for jobs in skilled trades, the future outlook for the industry, and the exciting opportunities available to those considering a career in this field. We ultimately want to get you the information you need about skilled trades demand and career outlook so that you can make an informed decision for your career that you feel confident in.

The Current Market for Jobs in Skilled Trades

Today, the demand for skilled tradespeople is strong and projected to continue growing in the coming years. Let’s look at the employment of plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters as an example. Employment in this industry is projected to grow 2 percent from 2022 to 2032, about as fast as the average for all occupations.

That equates to a projection of about 42,600 openings for plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters each year, on average, over the decade. (source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics) 

This increase in demand is because of several factors:

Aging Workforce

Many skilled tradespeople are nearing retirement age, which is creating a gap in the workforce that needs to be filled. This presents an opportunity for younger workers to enter the industry and learn from experienced professionals.

Infrastructure Projects

Government and private organizations are investing heavily in infrastructure projects such as transportation, energy, and construction. These projects require skilled tradespeople to build and maintain them.

Technological Advancements

The integration of technology in various industries is creating a need for tradespeople who can work with modern tools and equipment. For instance, electricians must stay current with smart home technology and renewable energy systems so that they can service them.

Housing and Commercial Construction

The ongoing demand for housing and commercial buildings fuels the need for skilled workers in construction-related trades, such as carpentry, plumbing, and masonry.

With a new for new projects and an aging workforce, the skilled trades are in high demand and it looks to remain that way for a long time. Let’s take a look at the future of the skilled trades industry.

Future Outlook for Skilled Trades

The future of skilled trades looks promising, with strong job growth projected across many trades. But what does that look like for the average worker? Are you wondering what you can expect from a career in the skilled trades?

Here's what you can expect in the coming years:

High Demand

As older workers retire, there will be an increasing need for skilled workers to replace them. This high demand translates to job security and opportunities for career advancement.

Competitive Salaries

Skilled tradespeople often earn competitive salaries, and this trend is expected to continue. With experience and specialized skills, you can achieve a comfortable income.

Career Flexibility

Skilled trades offer various career paths and opportunities to specialize in different areas. You can choose to work as an independent contractor, start your own business, or advance to supervisory and management roles.

Emerging Technologies

As technology continues to evolve, new opportunities will arise in areas such as green energy, automation, and smart systems. Staying current with these trends can open doors to exciting and innovative careers.

The future for skilled workers looks bright. However, not every skilled worker will end up as a local plumber or HVAC technician. Are you curious about what new opportunities are popping up in the skilled trades? Lets explore a couple. 

Exciting New Opportunities in Skilled Trades

Many are unaware of how many job opportunities are available to those in skilled trades. Most are familiar with HVAC, plumbing, welding, mechanics, electricians, carpenters, etc. But with advancing technology, there are exciting new opportunities for skilled trades workers to consider. 

Here are a couple:

Renewable Energy

The growth of solar and wind energy projects presents opportunities for electricians, welders, and technicians to install and maintain these systems.

Manufacturing and Robotics

Advanced manufacturing and robotics require skilled tradespeople to program, maintain, and repair machinery and equipment.

Automotive and Electric Vehicle (EV) Maintenance

We’ve all heard about electric vehicles, and most big car manufacturers such as Chevrolet, Ford, and Dodge are starting to put an emphasis on their EV selection. As more consumers purchase and drive electric vehicles, auto mechanics with knowledge of EV technology will be in demand.

The Time Is Now

The skilled trades offer a wealth of opportunities for those seeking a fulfilling and stable career. Whether you're a high school graduate or considering a career change, now is a great time to explore the possibilities in this field. With training and dedication, you can build a successful career that will serve you well for years to come. Are you considering a job in skilled trades or exploring options for a loved one? If so, check out this information to help decide if skilled trades are right for you.