What are some jobs that are considered trades?

I'm looking into career options and wondering about different jobs that are considered skilled trades. What are examples of such jobs, and what kind of training or skills do they typically require?

There's a wide array of jobs that fall under the skilled trades category. These jobs involve working with your hands and require specific training, often through apprenticeships or vocational programs. Here are a few examples:

1. Electrician: This job involves installing, maintaining, and repairing electrical systems in homes and businesses. Typically, it requires completion of an apprenticeship or vocational school, and licensure is often necessary.

2. Plumber: Plumbers install and repair water and waste systems. Like electricians, plumbers usually go through an apprenticeship and must obtain licensure to work independently.

3. HVAC Technician: HVAC techs install, repair, and maintain heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems. Postsecondary education or an apprenticeship is typically required, along with certification for handling refrigerants.

4. Automotive Mechanic: Automobile mechanics repair and maintain cars and trucks. They sometimes specialize in certain types of repairs, like transmissions or brakes. Most auto mechanics complete a post-secondary training program, and recognizing the increasing complexity of modern vehicles, many employers prefer mechanics who have completed a formal training program in a postsecondary institution.

5. Carpenter: Carpenters construct and repair building frameworks and structures—such as stairways, doorframes, and rafters—made from wood and other materials. They might even install kitchen cabinets in homes. They typically learn skills through apprenticeships or technical schools.

6. Welder: Welders use equipment to cut and join metal parts. They may also fill holes, indentations, or seams in metal products. Training could range from a few weeks of school or on-the-job training for low-skilled positions to several years of combined school and on-the-job training for highly skilled jobs.

7. Mason: Masons build structures from individual units laid in and bound together by mortar. They might work with materials like brick, natural stone, and concrete. Apprenticeships are common in this field.

It's important to note that many trade jobs require physical strength and stamina. They also often include a combination of on-the-job training, apprenticeships, and sometimes certification or education from a vocational school. Trade careers can be great options for those who enjoy hands-on work and are interested in avoiding a traditional four-year college degree path.