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The Current State of Trades in the Job Market
From construction sites to manufacturing plants, industries are crying out for qualified workers. This surge in demand, coupled with an aging workforce, has created a massive opportunity for those considering a career in the trades.
Let's dive into the numbers and explore why the trades are alive and kicking!
Job Openings and Growth Projections
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the outlook for various trades is remarkably positive.
Keep in mind that as of 2023, the median annual wage for all jobs was $48,060, and the overall job growth expected till 2033 is 4.0%.
Construction and Infrastructure
Overall employment in construction is projected to grow faster than the average for all occupations from 2023 to 2033!
But within this sector, there's a wide range of occupations, each with its own unique demand.
- Carpenters: 4% job growth between 2023 and 2033, with a median pay of $56,350 per year.
- Electricians: 11% job growth, with a median pay of $61,590 per year.
- Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters: 6% job growth, with a median pay of $61,550 per year.
- Wind Turbine Technicians: A healthy 60% job growth, with a median annual pay of $61,770.
Manufacturing and Production
Manufacturing is considered the backbone of the economy, and skilled tradespeople are increasingly in demand to keep up with new technologies and roles in this industry.
- Industrial Machinery Mechanics, Machinery Maintenance Workers, and Millwrights: This includes all the industrial maintenance technicians who keep production lines running smoothly. The BLS projects a 15% job growth with a median annual salary of $61,170.
- Electromechanical and Mechatronics Technologists and Technicians: With the rise of automation in manufacturing, these technicians command an annual median pay of $65,080.
- Aircraft and Avionics Equipment Mechanics and Technicians: Aviation technicians have a high-stakes job in ensuring we keep flying safely. The BLS projects 5% job growth for these professionals, with a median annual salary of $75,400 per year.
Skills Gaps
While tens of thousands of new trade job openings are expected over the decade, there’s a catch.
There aren't enough skilled workers to fill these positions. In manufacturing, for example, a Deloitte study finds that 1.9 million jobs could be left unfilled by 2033.
This skills gap is a major challenge for the economy, one that can lead to project delays, increased costs, and slower overall growth.
What’s fuelling this shortage?
- An aging workforce: Many experienced tradespeople are retiring, leaving a void in the skilled labor pool.
- Misconceptions about the trades: Some people still hold outdated views of trades as less desirable than white-collar jobs.
- Emphasis on college education: The decades-long preference for four-year college degrees has led to a decline in trade school enrollment and apprenticeships.
- Technological advancements: Many trades now require keeping up with constant developments in technology. So unless they are pursuing on-the-job training or apprenticeships, many fresh graduates join the workforce with already-outdated skills.
The growing demand and widening skills gap make trade apprenticeships all the more valuable.
Understanding Trade Apprenticeships
To decide whether a trade apprenticeship is worth it, you need to understand what it consists of and whether that suits you.
Apprenticeships are structured, progressive training programs that combine on-the-job experience with classroom instruction. They offer a unique ‘earn while you learn’ model that enables you to gain practical skills and knowledge while earning fair wages.
A trade apprenticeship typically consists of 4 main elements.
1. Progressive Skill Development
The majority of an apprentice's time is spent working alongside experienced professionals and learning the trade hands-on. Trade apprenticeships usually have a progressive structure.
- In the early stages, apprentices often shadow experienced professionals, observing techniques, safety practices, and workplace dynamics.
- As they gain confidence, apprentices begin to perform tasks under close supervision, receiving immediate feedback and guidance.
- Later in the program, apprentices take on more complex projects with reduced supervision to demonstrate their growing competence.
- In the final stages, apprentices often perform work at a level close to that of a fully qualified tradesperson, preparing them for independent work post-certification.
2. Comprehensive Classroom Instruction
The theoretical component of apprenticeships is crucial and often more extensive than many realize. Classes might also be held at community colleges, technical schools, or through online modules.
- Technical Knowledge: Classes cover a wide range of topics, from basic principles of math and physics relevant to the trade to advanced concepts like electrical theory for electricians or fluid dynamics for plumbers.
- Safety Protocols: Given the physical nature of many trades, extensive safety training is a core part of the curriculum. This includes OSHA standards, equipment-specific safety procedures, and first aid training.
- Industry Trends and Technologies: Courses often cover emerging technologies and industry trends to ensure apprentices are prepared for the evolving nature of their trades.
3. Progress and Assessment
As an apprentice, your progress will be regularly evaluated to check if you're meeting the required standards. You may need to complete specific tasks, demonstrate your skills, or pass exams to advance.
- Practical Examinations: These hands-on tests evaluate if you can perform key tasks of the trade.
- Written Assessments: Traditional exams covering trade-specific information. For instance, general construction or manufacturing principles.
- Project-Based Evaluations: Some programs require you to demonstrate a range of skills by undertaking complex projects.
- Performance Reviews: Regular feedback sessions with mentors and supervisors to help you understand your progress and areas that need improvement.
4. Final Certification
Successful completion of an apprenticeship program typically leads to a journeyman certification. It indicates you've met industry standards and are qualified to work independently in your trade. This can sometimes involve third-party certification exams.
As apprentices near the end of their program, many receive focused preparation for certification exams as well as one-on-one guidance from mentors.
What Trades Offer Apprenticeships?
Apprenticeships are available in a wide range of skilled trades, including:
- Construction: Electricians, plumbers, carpenters, HVAC technicians, pipefitters, welders.
- Manufacturing: Machinists, tool and die makers, industrial maintenance technicians, robotics technicians.
- Transportation: Aircraft mechanics, diesel mechanics, automotive technicians.
- Healthcare: Medical equipment repairers, pharmacy technicians, dental technicians.
Duration and Structure
The length of a trade apprenticeship can vary, ranging from 1 to 6 years. It all depends on the complexity of the trade and the specific requirements of a program.
For example:
- Electrician apprenticeships often last 4 years.
- Manufacturing apprenticeships typically take up to 4 years.
- Carpentry apprenticeships can take anywhere between 2-4 years.
- Pharmacy technician apprenticeships can be finished in 1 year.
Most apprenticeships follow a structured curriculum, with clear milestones and skill-development checkpoints along the way. This is to ensure apprentices are developing the necessary competencies at an appropriate pace.
Apprenticeship Standards
Many trade apprenticeships in the United States are registered with the US Department of Labor or state apprenticeship agencies.
These Registered Apprenticeship Programs must meet certain standards regarding wages, safety, training, and equal employment opportunities.
