According to projections by the Bureau of Labor and Statistics (BLS), the following 10 careers will continue to be in high demand and are among the highest-paying trade school careers you can enter.
1. Air Traffic Controller
The median annual salary in the US for an Air traffic controller is $131,050.
Air traffic controllers are responsible for the safe and orderly movement of air traffic. They use radar and other technology to track aircraft and to issue instructions to pilots.
To become an air traffic controller, you typically need to have a high school diploma or equivalent, complete a rigorous training program, and pass a series of tests. The training program typically covers topics such as air traffic control procedures, radar technology, and emergency response procedures.
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2. Plumber
The median annual salary in the US for a Plumber is $59,190.
Plumbers install, repair, and maintain plumbing systems. They use various tools and equipment to work with pipes, fixtures, and drainage systems. Plumbers must have a high school diploma or equivalent, and they must complete an apprenticeship or vocational training program.
To become a plumber, you typically need to have a high school diploma or equivalent, complete an apprenticeship or vocational training program, and pass a licensing exam. The apprenticeship or vocational training program typically covers topics such as basic plumbing skills, pipefitting, and blueprint reading. You can gain industry experience by working as a plumber’s helper.
3. Sonographer
The median annual salary in the US for a Sonographer is $77,350.
Sonographers use ultrasound technology to create images of the internal organs of the body. They use these images to diagnose and monitor medical conditions. Sonographers must have a high school diploma or equivalent, and they must complete a training program.
To become a sonographer, you typically need to have a high school diploma or equivalent, complete an associate’s degree or certificate program in sonography, and pass a certification exam. The associate’s degree or certificate program typically covers topics such as anatomy and physiology, ultrasound physics, and patient care.
4. Nuclear medicine technologist
The median annual salary in the US for a Nuclear medicine technologist is $82,530.
Nuclear medicine technologists use radioactive isotopes to diagnose and treat medical conditions. They prepare and administer radioactive isotopes to patients, and they use imaging equipment to monitor the distribution of the isotopes in the body. Nuclear medicine technologists must have a high school diploma or equivalent, and they must complete a training program.
To become a nuclear medicine technologist, you typically need to have a high school diploma or equivalent, complete an associate’s degree or certificate program in nuclear medicine technology, and pass a certification exam. The associate’s degree or certificate program typically covers topics such as radiation safety, radioisotope administration, and imaging techniques.
5. Dental hygienist
The median annual salary in the US for a Dental hygienist is $124,080.
Dental hygienists clean teeth, apply fluoride treatments, and take X-rays. They also educate patients about oral hygiene. Dental hygienists must have an associate’s degree, and they must be licensed by the state in which they work.
To become a dental hygienist, you typically need to have a high school diploma or equivalent, complete an associate’s degree in dental hygiene, and pass a national licensing exam. The associate’s degree program typically covers topics such as oral anatomy and physiology, dental hygiene techniques, and patient care.
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6. Electrical and Electronics Engineering Technicians
The median annual salary in the US for an Electrical and electronics engineering technician is $66,290.
Electrical and electronics engineering technicians install, maintain, and repair electrical and electronic equipment. They use a variety of tools and equipment to work with circuits, wires, and components. Electrical and electronics engineering technicians must have a high school diploma or equivalent, and they may complete a training program.
To become an electrical and electronics engineering technician, you typically need to have a high school diploma or equivalent, complete a postsecondary vocational training program or an associate’s degree in electrical and electronics engineering technology, and pass an industry certification exam. The vocational training program or associate’s degree program typically covers topics such as electrical circuits, electronics theory, and troubleshooting.
7. Aircraft and Avionics Equipment Mechanics and Technicians
The median annual salary in the US for Aircraft and avionics equipment mechanics and technicians is $69,170.
Aircraft and avionics equipment mechanics and technicians install, maintain, and repair aircraft and avionics equipment. They use a variety of tools and equipment to work with electrical systems, engines, and other mechanical components. Aircraft and avionics equipment mechanics and technicians must have a high school diploma or equivalent, and they may complete a training program.
To become an aircraft and avionics equipment mechanic or technician, you typically need to have a high school diploma or equivalent, complete an apprenticeship or vocational training program in aviation maintenance technology, and pass an industry certification exam. The apprenticeship or vocational training program typically covers topics such as aircraft systems, avionics equipment, and maintenance procedures.
8. Boilermakers
The median annual salary in the US for Boilermakers is $71,240.
Boilermakers install, maintain, and repair boilers. They use a variety of tools and equipment to work with metal plates, pipes, and other components. Boilermakers must have a high school diploma or equivalent, and they must complete an apprenticeship or vocational training program.
To become a boilermaker, you typically need to have a high school diploma or equivalent, complete an apprenticeship or vocational training program in boilermaking, and pass a licensing exam. The apprenticeship or vocational training program typically covers topics such as welding, metalworking, and boiler repair.
9. Construction and Building Inspectors
The median annual salary in the US for Construction and building inspectors is $63,930.
Construction and building inspectors inspect construction projects to ensure that they meet safety and building codes. They use a variety of tools and equipment to inspect the work of contractors and builders. Construction and building inspectors must have a high school diploma or equivalent, and they may complete a training program.
To become a construction and building inspector, you typically need to have a high school diploma or equivalent, complete an associate’s degree or certificate program in construction technology or inspection, and pass a licensing exam. The associate’s degree or certificate program typically covers topics such as building codes, construction methods, and inspection procedures.
10. Electricians
The median annual salary in the US for Electricians is $65,430.
Electricians install, maintain, and repair electrical wiring and equipment. They use a variety of tools and equipment to work with wires, circuits, and electrical components. Electricians typically work in a variety of settings, including residential, commercial, and industrial environments.
To become an electrician, complete a high school diploma or equivalent. Seek out an apprenticeship program in your area. Gain experience by working as an electrician’s helper. Obtain the necessary licenses or certifications in your state.