Skilled Trades

What is a Skilled Trade?

"Skilled trades are occupations that require a special skill, knowledge or ability which can be obtained at a college, technical school or through specialized training. Skilled trades provide an alternative to jobs that require four years of college education. While skilled trades can be separated into many areas such as manufacturing, technology, energy, and healthcare, they are generally divided into the following three categories:

1. Skilled Industrial Trades: welders, machinists, mechanics, tool and die makers, programmers

2. Skilled Construction Trades: electricians, plumbers, gasfitters, carpenters, bricklayers, technicians, insulators

3. Skilled Service Trades: nurses, aides, orderlies, therapists, service technicians,

There is a growing concern within the field of trades that we will soon see a critical shortage of adequately trained and competent skilled workers. As the baby boom generation continues to retire and leave the workforce, a lack of qualified candidates to step into vacant trade positions could severely impact economic growth. Several theories have been offered to explain the 'skilled trades gap.' Some include: mismatch between employee skills and employer needs, stagnant wages, specific technical requirements, a lack of employer sponsored on-the-job training and apprenticeship programs and declining interest in skilled trades careers among graduating students." -jcisd.org

A sizable professional trades shortage exists in Michigan and is expected to continue through 2026. Professional trades will account for more than 545,000 jobs in the Michigan economy, and approximately 47,000 new job openings are expected annually in the state during that time.

Wages for professional trades occupations is 45 percent higher than other occupations – $54,000 is the median annual salary for these jobs!

Opportunities exist in a variety of emerging industries including IT, healthcare, advanced manufacturing, construction and automotive. And many of the career fields do not require a four-year degree.

Going Pro in Michigan

To find out more about how and where to get training, check out these links:

Pure Michigan Talent/Skilled Trades-post- secondary training opportunities

Going Pro: School and Training Opportunities

Some employers offer training and certification in a skilled trade through an apprenticeship. An "apprenticeship is an industry-driven, high-quality career pathway where employers can develop and prepare their future workforce, and individuals can obtain paid work experience, classroom instruction, and a portable, nationally-recognized credential. Through an apprenticeship program, you can obtain paid, relevant workplace experience while acquiring the skills and credentials that employer’s value. 94% of apprentices who complete an apprenticeship retain employment, with an average annual salary of $70,000". -apprenticeship.gov

To learn more about apprenticeships, go to:

Apprenticeships-West MI Works

Apprenticship.gov