Trade Career Hub
Skilled-trade careers, salaries & how to get licensed
Real salary and job-outlook data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, plus the step-by-step path to get licensed in each trade — and free practice for the exam that stands between you and the job.
Elevator Mechanic
$54,720–$149,250 range · +5% outlook
Elevator installers and repairers assemble, maintain, and fix elevators, escalators, and moving walkways. It's consistently one of the highest-paid skilled trades in the country.
How to become an Elevator Mechanic →Crane Operator
$40,220–$101,350 range · +3% outlook
Crane operators use mobile and tower cranes to lift and position heavy materials on construction and industrial sites, where precision and safety are critical.
How to become a Crane Operator →Plumber
$40,670–$105,150 range · +4% outlook
Plumbers install and repair the pipes, fixtures, and appliances that carry water, gas, and waste in homes and businesses, working to the IPC or UPC plumbing codes.
How to become a Plumber →Electrician
$39,430–$106,030 range · +9% outlook
Electricians install, maintain, and repair electrical wiring, equipment, and fixtures in homes, businesses, and factories, working to the National Electrical Code (NEC).
How to become an Electrician →HVAC Technician
$39,130–$91,020 range · +8% outlook
HVAC technicians install, maintain, and repair heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems in homes and commercial buildings.
How to become an HVAC Technician →CDL Truck Driver
$38,640–$78,800 range · +4% outlook
Heavy and tractor-trailer drivers transport goods over intercity and long-distance routes. A Commercial Driver's License (CDL) is required, and endorsements like HazMat raise your earning potential.
How to become a CDL Truck Driver →Real Estate Agent
$31,940–$125,140 range · +3% outlook
Real estate sales agents help clients buy, sell, and rent properties. Every state requires a license, and earnings are heavily commission-based — top agents earn well above the median.
How to become a Real Estate Agent →Welder / Welding Inspector
$38,130–$75,850 range · +2% outlook
Welders join metal parts using heat. Earning the AWS Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) credential is a well-paid career step — inspectors verify that welds meet code, and typically earn well above the welder median below.
How to become a Welder / Welding Inspector →EMT / Paramedic
$31,410–$82,420 range · +5% outlook
EMTs and paramedics respond to emergencies, providing critical prehospital medical care and transporting patients. Paramedics complete more training and earn toward the top of the range.
How to become an EMT / Paramedic →Pharmacy Technician
$35,100–$59,450 range · +6% outlook
Pharmacy technicians help licensed pharmacists dispense prescription medication, manage inventory, and serve patients in retail and hospital pharmacies.
How to become a Pharmacy Technician →Cosmetologist
$24,590–$70,140 range · +5% outlook
Cosmetologists cut, color, and style hair and provide skin and nail services. All states require a license, and tips plus a built clientele can push earnings well above the base median.
How to become a Cosmetologist →Salary and outlook figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (OEWS wages, May 2024; Occupational Outlook Handbook projections, 2024–2034). National medians; actual pay varies by location, employer, and experience.