9781422276884

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 build structures ranging from houses to skyscrapers, keep the power on, and install and repair pipes that carry water, fuel, and other liquids to, from, and within businesses, factories, and homes, 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 paragraphs provide more infor- mation 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 plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters in the United States are $56,030, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. This salary is higher than the average earnings for some careers that require a bachelor’s or graduate degree—

including archivists ($54,570), event planners ($52,020), social workers ($50,710), recreational therapists ($48,190), 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.

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