Field guide · 12 trades
Hourly ranges, required certifications, and BLS job outlook for the skilled trades. Find the one that fits — then build your profile and get matched.
Install, maintain, and repair electrical systems in residential, commercial, and industrial settings. PLC programming, motor controls, and renewable energy integration are high-demand specializations.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 6% growth for electricians through 2032 — faster than average. Demand is driven by construction, solar installations, and EV charging infrastructure.
Certifications
$28-45/hr
Hourly range
Join metals using MIG, TIG, stick, and flux-core processes. Structural welding, pipe welding, and underwater welding are the highest-paying specializations.
Welding is projected to grow 5% through 2032. Infrastructure spending, shipbuilding, and energy sector work are major demand drivers. AWS-certified welders command premium rates.
Certifications
$22-45/hr
Hourly range
Install and service heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems. Heat pump technology and commercial refrigeration are the fastest-growing specializations.
HVAC technicians are projected to grow 6% through 2032. The heat pump retrofit market is exploding as buildings electrify. EPA 608 certification is legally required to handle refrigerants.
Certifications
$24-40/hr
Hourly range
Install and repair water supply, drainage, and gas piping systems. Medical gas installation, backflow prevention, and hydronic heating are high-value specializations.
Plumber employment is projected to grow 6% through 2032. Aging infrastructure and new construction drive consistent demand. Licensed plumbers are in short supply in most states.
Certifications
$26-42/hr
Hourly range
Build and repair structures using wood, steel, and composite materials. Finish carpentry, cabinetmaking, and formwork are distinct career paths within the trade.
Carpentry grows at about 2% through 2032. Residential construction drives the majority of demand. Finish carpenters and millworkers command higher rates than rough framing.
Certifications
$22-38/hr
Hourly range
Diagnose and repair vehicles including engines, transmissions, electrical systems, and ADAS. EV/hybrid specialization is the fastest-growing area.
Growing complexity of modern vehicles (ADAS, EVs, hybrid drivetrains) is creating demand for technicians with advanced diagnostic skills. ASE-certified techs earn 10-20% more.
Certifications
$22-40/hr
Hourly range
Operate excavators, bulldozers, cranes, and other heavy machinery for construction, mining, and infrastructure projects.
Infrastructure spending from federal investment programs is driving strong demand for certified operators. CDL holders with NCCER credentials are especially sought after.
Certifications
$24-42/hr
Hourly range
Install, maintain, and repair photovoltaic solar panel systems for residential and commercial applications. Includes electrical work, roofing, and system design.
Solar installer is projected to grow 22% through 2032 — one of the fastest-growing occupations in the US. The Inflation Reduction Act is accelerating demand significantly.
Certifications
$22-38/hr
Hourly range
Layout, assemble, and maintain high-pressure piping systems for industrial, commercial, and power generation applications. Includes steam, hydraulic, and process piping.
Pipefitters are among the highest-paid trades. Power plant construction, LNG facilities, and pharmaceutical manufacturing drive demand. Union pipefitters earn premium wages.
Certifications
$28-48/hr
Hourly range
Design, install, and maintain fire sprinkler systems, fire alarms, and suppression systems. NICET certification is the industry standard.
Building codes increasingly require sophisticated fire protection systems. NICET-certified technicians are in high demand as existing systems require upgrades and new construction continues.
Certifications
$26-44/hr
Hourly range
Build and repair structures using brick, block, stone, and concrete. Includes structural masonry, decorative stonework, and concrete finishing.
Masonry demand tracks construction activity. Restoration and preservation work provides steady demand even when new construction slows.
Certifications
$22-38/hr
Hourly range
Erect structural steel frameworks, reinforce concrete with rebar, and install metal components for buildings, bridges, and infrastructure.
Infrastructure investment is driving demand for structural and reinforcing ironworkers. The work is physically demanding and commands strong wages, especially at height.
Certifications
$26-48/hr
Hourly range