TRADES NOW
SKILLED TRADES:
BUILDING, MAINTAINING, AND SECURING OUR WORLD
WHY SKILLED TRADES MATTER
Every day, skilled trade professionals contribute to the safety, stability, and advancement of our communities. They ensure clean water flows, buildings stand strong, and technology operates smoothly. Without these skilled experts, our world simply wouldn’t function.
A CAREER IN SKILLED TRADES: YOUR PATH TO SUCCESS
Skilled trades offer lucrative, fulfilling careers with clear pathways to success. Unlike traditional four-year degrees, many trade careers start with apprenticeships or certification programs, allowing you to earn while you learn. Whether you're a student exploring career options, a military veteran transitioning into civilian life, or someone seeking a career change, skilled trades provide opportunities to grow, lead, and innovate.
$15,000
Average cost for trade schools
4%
Expected industry growth from 2021-2031
1.3 mil.
Trade job openings annually
CAREER FIELDS
Skilled trades span multiple industries, each requiring expertise and dedication.
ENERGY RESEARCH PROFESSIONALS
What They Do: Energy professionals drive advancements in power generation, grid modernization, and sustainable energy solutions.
Key Roles: Energy Researchers, Power Generation Engineers, NDE Technicians
Supporting Organizations: Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI)
MATERIALS PROTECTION
What They Do: Ensure the longevity, safety, and sustainability of infrastructure and assets by preventing corrosion and applying protective coatings.
Key Roles: Coating Inspectors, Corrosion Engineers, Cathodic Protection Specialists.
Supporting Organizations: Association for Materials Protection and Performance
NONDESTRUCTIVE TESTING
What They Do: Inspect materials and structures without causing damage to ensure integrity and safety in industries like aerospace, energy, and infrastructure.
Key Roles: NDT Technicians, Inspectors, Managers
Supporting Organizations: The American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT)
SHEET METAL WORKERS
What They Do: Build, install, and maintain critical infrastructure across transportation, construction, and manufacturing.
Key Roles: HVAC Installers, Manufacturing Technicians, Shipyard Workers, Rail Engineers and Conductors
Supporting Organizations: The International Association of Sheet Metal, Air, Rail, and Transportation Workers (SMART)
WELDING & METAL FABRICATION
What They Do: Join, repair, and inspect metal structures in industries like construction, manufacturing, and aerospace.
Key Roles: Welders, Welding Inspectors, Welding Engineers
Supporting Organizations: American Welding Society (AWS)
MANUFACTURING PROFESSIONALS
What They Do: Refine and design products that enhance global industries by ensuring efficiency, quality, and innovation through precision machining and automated production.
Key Roles: Manufacturing Engineers, Tool and Die Makers, CNC Machinists, Welders, QC Inspectors
METAL FORMING
What They Do: Produce precision metal products using various processes to support industries like automotive, aerospace, medical, and consumer goods with high-quality, durable components.
Key Roles: Metal Forming Engineers, Tool and Die Makers, Press Operators, Quality Inspectors, and more
Supporting Organizations: Precision Metalforming Association (PMA)
PLUMBING & HVAC
What They Do: Install, maintain, and repair critical systems that provide clean water, safe sanitation, and climate control in residential, commercial, and industrial buildings.
Key Roles: Plumbing Contractor, HVAC Contractor, Master Plumber, HVAC Technician
Supporting Organizations: Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors -- National Association
STRUCTURAL STEEL FABRICATION
What They Do: Structural steel fabricators craft the parts that become steel buildings and bridges.
Key Roles: Fitters, Welders, Detailer, Material Handlers, Painters, Machine Operators, Quality Control Managers, and more
Supporting Organizations: American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC)
WHO WE ARE
The Skilled Trades Coalition is a collaborative group of organizations committed to strengthening and advancing the skilled trades. Through education, advocacy, and workforce development, we work to highlight the value of trade careers and ensure they receive the recognition and support they deserve.
Our mission is to raise awareness about the importance of skilled trades, connect individuals with training and career opportunities, and advocate for policies that invest in trade education and workforce programs. By fostering collaboration between businesses, educators, and future workers, we aim to bridge industry gaps and build a stronger, more sustainable future.
