Top Trade Skills For 2014

Even with a slowly improving economy, unemployment continues to be a major concern among American workers. However, there are many employment opportunities that go unanswered because of a lack of qualified skilled workers. Most people have heard that growth in the medical and technical fields is anticipated in the near future. However, there are literally thousands of available skilled trade positions within construction and manufacturing. Many of these positions have very good earning potential and may also come with highly desired benefits.

Manufacturing

There is a wide range of skilled employment positions within manufacturing. Machinists operate machinery within a manufacturing facility and create products. Advanced manufacturing positions include training in computer aided design (CAD), machine shop mathematics and machine shop technology. Positions similar to machinists include welding, industry machine mechanics and millwrights.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, machinists can earn between $11.70 and $28.75 per hour. Median income for machinists is approximately $40,000 annually and entry level positions require a high school diploma.

Entry into machinist positions can be obtained through apprenticeship programs and informal on-the-job training. However, community colleges, vocational schools and technical colleges offer advanced training and can provide opportunities for advancement and increased income.

Auto Mechanics

Auto mechanics are another employment opportunity with many positions available for highly skilled employees. With an aging work force, many auto mechanics are reaching retirement age with few qualified replacements available. There is wide range of positions within the auto mechanic field, including auto service technician, auto body and windshield repair, diesel service technician and heavy vehicle equipment service technician.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, auto mechanics earn approximately $17.20 per hour with a median annual income of approximately $36,000.

Entry level positions in the automotive service industry generally only require a high school diploma. However, some employers look favorably on applicants with training from vocational colleges or technical schools in automotive repair. Most employers require employees complete certification training once employment has begun.

Construction

There is wide range of employment positions in the construction industry that are widely available for well-trained highly skilled applicants. Positions employers are looking to fill include construction manager, electrician, plumber and HVAC (heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration) technicians.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, construction managers earn approximately $84,000 per year. This position requires a bachelor's degree in a field related to construction, such as construction engineering, construction science or project management. In lieu of an undergraduate degree, some employers will accept practical job experience. Highly desired qualities for construction managers include detail-oriented, strong time management skills, excellent writing skills and strong communication skills.

Electricians

Electricians are expected to have a strong growth rate of approximately 23 percent in the next decade. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, electricians earn a median income of approximately $48,000 annually. Entry level electricians are required to hold a high school diploma. However, apprenticeships and vocational schools can provide formal training and are looked favorably upon by potential employers. Most states have licensing requirements. Electricians are required to have good color vision and troubleshooting skills.

Plumbing

Plumbers often work within construction, including industrial and home buildings. They may install initial plumbing in new construction or repair existing plumbing in buildings. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics,plumbers earn approximately $22.50 per hour. They install and repair pipes carrying steam, water, gas or liquids. Most plumbers are required to complete a four to five year apprenticeship. Most states also have licensing requirements. Unions and business offer apprenticeship programs and basic requirements include being over 18 years of age, passing a drug test, passing a basic math exam and ability to use a computer.

HVAC

HVAC technicians install and repair air conditioning, heating and ventilation systems in buildings. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, HVAC technicians earn approximately $20.45 per hour and entry level positions require a high school diploma and a degree from a technical, trade or vocational school focused on heating, air conditioning and refrigeration. These programs can be completed in approximately six months to two years, depending on the school.

In many cases, skilled workers are needed because existing workers are aging out of the workforce. Many skilled trade positions offer excellent entry level pay with good employers. High school students should consider taking vocational courses to prepare for employment in one of these well-paying positions. Many technical trade and vocational schools offer training programs that help prepare individuals for skilled trade positions and can be completed in two years or less.

Editor's Note: Alex Faubel enjoys writing about topics related to business and technology in career-focused education programs.

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