9781422276891

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 technicians), build structures ranging from houses to skyscrapers

(carpenters and ironworkers), and build and repair roofs that keep us protected from the elements (roofers), among many other job duties. Yet despite their important 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 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 (including those involved in the trades) 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 thera- pists, $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.

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