Are trade jobs considered high-income skills?

I'm trying to figure out if pursuing a trade after high school is a good financial decision. Do trade jobs really offer high-income skills, or am I better off looking into college degrees instead?

Trade jobs can indeed be lucrative and provide high-income skills. It's often a common misconception that four-year degrees are the only path to financial success. But in reality, many trades offer competitive salaries, especially once you become more proficient in your field.

For example, some high-paying trades you might consider are:

1. Elevator Installers and Repairers: These tradespeople are in high demand, especially in urban areas with many high-rise buildings. The median annual wage is in the mid to high five figures.

2. Electricians: After you complete your apprenticeship and become a licensed electrician, you can earn a substantial income. Work can be found in a variety of settings such as residential, commercial, and industrial.

3. Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters: These jobs pay well and are always in demand as virtually every building has plumbing.

4. Welders: This trade is particularly high-paying in industries like shipbuilding and aerospace.

The key advantage of trade jobs is that they usually require less upfront time and cost compared to a traditional college degree. Also, they often come with less student debt, as the education can be completed at a vocational school or community college for a fraction of the cost of a four-year university.

Keep in mind, a trade job is not a shortcut to easy money. These are skilled positions that require significant training and often a lot of difficult physical work. The pay can be very good, but it reflects the complexity and importance of the job.

Remember, it's critical to choose a career based on both your interests and potential income. If you do enjoy hands-on work and have an interest in a specific trade, it could be an excellent path for you. People often excel at what they love doing and this applies to trades as well.