9781422276853

Introduction The Trades: Great Careers, Good Money, and Other Rewards Trades workers play a major role in the success of economies throughout the world. They keep the power on (electricians); install and repair pipes that carry water, fuel, and other liquids to, from, and within businesses, factories, and homes (plumbers and pipefitters); and lay and finish tile, wood, vinyl, carpet, and other types of flooring (flooring installers); among many other job duties. Yet despite their pivotal role in our society, only 6 percent of students consider a career in the trades, according to ExploretheTrades.org. Why? Because many young people have misconceptions about the trades. They have been told that the trades are low-paying, lack job security, and other untruths. In fact, working in the trades is one of the

best career choices you can make. The following para- graphs provide more information on why a career in the trades is a good idea. Good pay. Contrary to public perception, skilled trades workers earn salaries that place them firmly in the middle class. Average yearly salaries for construction workers in the United States are $48,900, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. This salary is slightly higher than the average earnings for some careers that require a bachelor’s or graduate degree—including recreational

therapists, $48,190; child, family, and school social workers, $47,510; and mental health counselors, $46,050. Trades workers who become managers or who launch their own businesses can have earnings that range from $90,000 to $200,000. Strong employment prospects. There are shortages of trades workers throughout the world, according to the human resource consulting firm ManpowerGroup. In fact, trades workers are the most in-demand occupational field in the Americas, Europe,

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