5 MYTHS ABOUT SKILLED TRADES YOU NEED TO DEBUNK

You work in the Skilled Trades (or are looking into it), so you know what an exciting and growing industry it is. Unfortunately, not everyone understands why a career in Skilled Trades is a smart move in today’s economy. In fact, many workers have a negative view of the industry based on some common misconceptions—and many don’t even understand the variety of jobs available within the industries.

Myth 1: “These jobs don’t pay well.”
Truth: New workers don’t expect huge starting salaries the first day on the job, but they do want to know they’re entering a field with salary growth potential. Many companies offer competitive salaries and a solid trajectory for skilled trades workers who gain additional experience, broaden their skills, and even gain certifications along the way.

Myth 2: “You can’t find work year-round.”
Truth: Not everyone understands the breadth of skilled trades and many people often confuse them with general labor that ebbs and flows with the seasons.  There is a constant need for plumbers, carpenters, electricians, and other roles year-round.

Myth 3: “I don’t have enough experience.”
Truth: Many companies offer apprenticeship programs, on-the-job training, and education assistance. So chances are, you can find work in a skilled trade even with little-to-no experience.

Myth 4: “It’s a dying industry.”
Truth: The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts the average growth rate for all occupations from 2016-2026 to be 7% as carpentry, sheet metal workers, electricians, and other related fields grow at the same rate. Even more, the BLS predicts plumber and pipefitter jobs will grow 16% during that same time period.

Myth 5: “It’s boring.”
Truth: Any skilled trades worker can dispel this myth in a few seconds, and you probably have your own stories to share. There are many environments you can work in: residential homes, skyscrapers, government projects, factories…the options seem endless. If there’s one job that’s the opposite of working in a cubicle all day, it’s going to be in the skilled trades.

The myths that surround skilled trades are easily debunked, especially when you can share your own personal career journey. After all, you’re still working in this industry for a reason; don’t keep it a secret!