9781422276860

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 us cool in the summer and warm in the winter (heating and cooling tech- nicians), build structures ranging from houses to skyscrapers (carpenters and iron- workers), and install and repair pipes that carry water, fuel, and other liquids to, from, and within businesses, factories, and homes (plumbers and pipefitters), among many other job duties. Yet despite their important role in our 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 paragraphs 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. For example, average yearly salaries for heating and cooling technicians in the United States are $48,320, 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. society, only 6 percent of students consider a career in the trades, according to ExploretheTrades.org. Why? Because many young people

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