Skilled trade and blue-collar jobs are the lifeblood that supports many of our nation's industries, offering hands-on work, job stability, and good pay.
"Blue-collar jobs are the backbone of our economy, providing essential services that keep everything running smoothly. I’m passionate about helping people step into these roles because they offer stability and the opportunity to build valuable skills that can lead to a fulfilling career," says Job.com recruiter Amber Gardner.
Here’s a look at five in-demand skilled trade positions—Maintenance Technician, Factory/Floor Worker, Solar Technician, Welder, and Electrician—and how you can kickstart your career in each field.
1. Maintenance Technician
Why It’s Popular:
Maintenance Technicians are vital in keeping machinery, equipment, and facilities operating efficiently. They work in various settings, from manufacturing plants to residential buildings, ensuring everything runs smoothly and addressing any issues that arise.
How to Get Started:
- Education & Training: A high school diploma or GED is usually required. Many technicians also complete vocational training or earn an associate degree in industrial maintenance, HVAC, or a related field.
- Certifications: Consider obtaining certifications, such as a Certified Maintenance and Reliability Technician (CMRT) or HVAC certification if you’re working with heating and cooling systems.
- On-the-Job Training: Many Maintenance Technicians gain experience through entry-level positions where they learn about specific systems and equipment.
- Continued Learning: Stay updated on new technologies and systems, especially if working in specialized environments like manufacturing or medical facilities.
2. Factory/Floor Worker
Why It’s Popular:
Factory and floor workers are essential to the manufacturing and production process. They operate machinery, assemble products, and ensure that production lines run smoothly, making them a crucial part of the industrial sector.
How to Get Started:
- Education & Training: A high school diploma or GED is typically required. On-the-job training is often provided, so no prior experience is necessary for many entry-level positions.
- Skills Development: Develop a strong understanding of safety protocols, machinery operation, and quality control processes. Many factories offer in-house training programs.
- Certifications: Depending on the industry, certifications in areas like forklift operation, machine operation, or occupational safety may be beneficial.
- Advancement: With experience, you can move into supervisory roles or specialize in areas like machine maintenance or quality assurance.
3. Solar Technician
Why It’s Popular:
With the increasing focus on renewable energy, Solar Technicians are in high demand. They install, maintain, and repair solar panels, making a significant contribution to the shift toward sustainable energy sources.
How to Get Started:
- Education & Training: Start with a high school diploma or GED. Enroll in a technical school or community college program that offers training in solar energy technology.
- Certification: Obtain certification through the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP), which is widely recognized in the industry.
- Apprenticeship: Some states offer apprenticeship programs that combine hands-on experience with classroom instruction. These can be a great way to learn the trade while earning a salary.
- Licensing: Depending on your state, you may need to be licensed as an electrician to work on solar installations. Check local requirements.
- Continued Learning: As solar technology evolves, staying current with new developments and technologies is crucial for long-term success in this field.
4. Welder
Why It’s Popular:
Welding is a critical skill in many industries, including construction, automotive, and manufacturing. Welders join metals together, creating strong bonds that are essential in building everything from vehicles to skyscrapers.
How to Get Started:
- Education & Training: Enroll in a welding program at a vocational school, technical school, or community college. Some high schools also offer welding courses.
- Certification: After completing your training, seek certification through the American Welding Society (AWS) or another recognized body. Certification demonstrates your skills and knowledge to potential employers.
- On-the-Job Training: Many welders start with entry-level positions, gaining experience in various welding techniques, such as MIG, TIG, and stick welding.
- Specialization: With experience, consider specializing in areas like underwater welding, pipe welding, or working with exotic metals. Specialized welders often command higher salaries.
5. Electrician
Why It’s Popular:
Electricians are essential for installing, maintaining, and repairing electrical systems in homes, businesses, and industrial facilities. With ongoing construction and the need for updates to aging infrastructure, electricians remain in high demand.
How to Get Started:
- Education & Training: Begin with a high school diploma or GED, focusing on math, physics, and vocational courses related to electricity.
- Apprenticeship: Apply for an apprenticeship program, typically lasting 4-5 years, combining classroom instruction with hands-on experience. Apprenticeships are often offered through unions or trade associations.
- Licensing: After completing your apprenticeship, pass your state’s licensing exam to become a journeyman electrician.
- Continued Learning: As technology evolves, staying updated on new electrical codes and systems is crucial. Advanced certifications can also open doors to higher-paying roles or specializations, such as master electrician or electrical contractor.
These five blue-collar careers offer a mix of stability, hands-on work, and the potential for growth. Whether you're interested in maintaining high-tech equipment, assembling products on the factory floor, or contributing to the renewable energy revolution, each of these roles provides a clear path to success. By investing in the necessary training, certifications, and on-the-job experience, you can build a fulfilling and rewarding career in any of these fields.
Interested in exploring skilled trade careers? Work with Amber and the Job.com recruitment team who are actively filling and interviewing for hundreds of skilled trade positions across the nation. Don't see a job you're looking for on our featured job board? It's just a handful of our openings, so complete a quick virtual application and interview and tell us exactly what you're looking for and Amber will match you with the right jobs.