Highest Paying Blue Collar Jobs with Trade School Training

Trade school training offers a practical and efficient pathway to high-paying blue-collar jobs. These careers not only provide competitive salaries but also offer job stability and opportunities for advancement.

Andrew Harlow

01 Sep 2025 — 5 min read

Photo by Rex Roberts / Unsplash

Below, we explore some of the most lucrative blue-collar jobs that can be accessed through trade school education.

Electrician: Powering Up Careers

man in brown and white plaid dress shirt and yellow hard hat holding black and orange — Photo by Emmanuel Ikwuegbu / Unsplash

Electricians are essential in both residential and commercial settings, responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing electrical systems. With an average salary ranging from $60,000 to $80,000 annually, electricians enjoy a rewarding career with the potential for growth. The demand for skilled electricians is expected to rise, driven by the need for new construction and the maintenance of existing infrastructure.

HVAC Technician: Climate Control Experts

a couple of men standing on top of a roof — Photo by Singapore Stock Photos / Unsplash

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) technicians ensure that indoor environments remain comfortable and energy-efficient. These professionals typically earn between $50,000 and $75,000 per year. The increasing focus on energy efficiency and sustainable building practices contributes to the growing demand for HVAC technicians, making it a stable career choice.

Plumber: Keeping Systems Flowing

man wearing black pullover hoodie holding tool — Photo by Battlecreek Coffee Roasters / Unsplash

Plumbers play a crucial role in maintaining and repairing water and sewage systems. With salaries ranging from $55,000 to $80,000 annually, plumbing is a lucrative trade. The ongoing need for plumbing services in both new and existing buildings ensures a steady demand for skilled plumbers.

Aircraft Mechanic: Aviation Maintenance Specialists

a person standing on the stairs of a plane — Photo by Shelby Bauman / Unsplash

Aircraft mechanics are responsible for the maintenance and repair of aircraft, ensuring safety and compliance with regulations. They earn an average salary of about $65,000 to $85,000. As air travel continues to grow, the demand for qualified aircraft mechanics remains strong, offering a secure and well-paying career path.

Auto Mechanic: Keeping Vehicles on the Road

a man working on a tire in a garage — Photo by Jimmy Nilsson Masth / Unsplash

Auto mechanics diagnose and repair vehicle issues, playing a vital role in the automotive industry. They can earn between $40,000 and $70,000 per year. With the constant need for vehicle maintenance and repair, auto mechanics enjoy a stable job market with opportunities for specialization and advancement.

Welder: Joining Materials with Precision

selective focus photography of man using angle grinder — Photo by Maxime Agnelli / Unsplash

Welders are skilled in joining metal parts using various welding techniques. They can make approximately $40,000 to $60,000 annually. The demand for welders spans multiple industries, including construction, manufacturing, and shipbuilding, providing diverse career opportunities.

Solar Technician: Harnessing Renewable Energy

men working on a roof — Photo by Raze Solar / Unsplash

As the world shifts towards renewable energy, solar technicians are at the forefront of this transition. They install and maintain solar panels, earning around $50,000 to $70,000 per year. The growing emphasis on sustainable energy solutions ensures a bright future for those entering this field.

CNC Machinist: Precision Manufacturing Experts

a machine that is cutting a piece of metal — Photo by Jelifer Maniago / Unsplash

CNC machinists operate computer-controlled machinery to produce precision parts and components. With salaries typically between $45,000 and $70,000 annually, CNC machinists are in high demand across various manufacturing sectors. The precision and skill required in this role make it a valuable and rewarding career.

Truck Driver: Driving the Economy

man wearing white crew-neck shirt holding steering wheel — Photo by Eddy Billard / Unsplash

Truck drivers are essential to the logistics and transportation industry, ensuring goods are delivered efficiently across the country. They can earn an average salary of $45,000 to $70,000, with potential for higher earnings based on experience and type of freight. The ongoing need for transportation services guarantees job security for truck drivers.

Medical Biller and Coder: Navigating Healthcare Data

person sitting while using laptop computer and green stethoscope near — Photo by National Cancer Institute / Unsplash

Medical billers and coders play a critical role in the healthcare industry by managing patient data and insurance claims. They earn between $40,000 and $60,000 annually. As healthcare services expand, the demand for skilled medical billers and coders continues to grow.

Conclusion

Trade school training provides a viable and often quicker alternative to traditional four-year college degrees, leading to high-paying and stable blue-collar jobs. With the increasing demand for skilled tradespeople, these careers offer not only competitive salaries but also job security and opportunities for advancement. Whether you're interested in working with your hands, technology, or in the healthcare sector, trade schools offer a pathway to a rewarding career.

FAQs

What are the benefits of attending a trade school?
Trade schools offer hands-on training, shorter program durations, and direct entry into high-demand fields, making them an efficient alternative to traditional college education.

Do trade school graduates earn competitive salaries?
Yes, many trade school graduates enter high-paying fields such as electricians, plumbers, and aircraft mechanics, with salaries often comparable to or exceeding those of some college graduates.

Is there a growing demand for blue-collar jobs?
Yes, the demand for skilled tradespeople is increasing, driven by factors such as new construction, renewable energy initiatives, and the need for infrastructure maintenance.