Long-term job security has become one of the most important factors when choosing a career. While salary and short-term hiring demand are important, many workers want careers that can provide stable employment opportunities for decades.
Skilled trades often provide strong long-term career security because they support essential systems that communities and businesses rely on every day, including electrical infrastructure, plumbing systems, heating and cooling equipment, transportation, manufacturing, and building maintenance.
However, not every skilled trade offers the same level of long-term stability. Some occupations are more vulnerable to economic cycles, automation, industry changes, or declining demand.
This CareerInTrades ranking identifies the best skilled trades for long-term job security by evaluating employment demand, retirement replacement needs, industry necessity, automation resistance, career advancement opportunities, and geographic availability.
The goal of this ranking is to identify skilled trade careers that are likely to remain valuable and employable over the next several decades.
Why Long-Term Job Security Matters in Skilled Trades
Career decisions should consider more than current salary. A financially successful career also requires long-term demand, adaptability, and opportunities for advancement.
Skilled trades with strong job security typically share several characteristics:
- Essential Services:
The occupation supports systems people and businesses cannot operate without. - High Replacement Demand:
Large numbers of experienced workers are expected to retire, creating opportunities for new workers. - Hands-On Technical Skills:
The work requires physical presence, troubleshooting, and specialized expertise that is difficult to automate. - Industry Diversity:
The occupation exists across multiple industries and regions. - Career Advancement:
Workers can progress into specialized roles, management, or business ownership.
For example, electricians, plumbers, and HVAC technicians continue to be needed because homes, businesses, and infrastructure require ongoing installation, maintenance, and repair.
Ranking Methodology
CareerInTrades developed the Best Skilled Trades for Long-Term Job Security ranking using a weighted employment stability model.
Unlike rankings based only on salary or short-term growth, this ranking evaluates whether a trade career can remain valuable over an extended period.
The analysis focuses on six major indicators:
- Long-Term Employment Demand
- Replacement Demand and Retirement Risk
- Industry Necessity
- Automation Resistance
- Career Advancement Opportunities
- Geographic Employment Availability
A strong long-term security trade should provide:
- Continuous employer demand.
- Protection from rapid technological replacement.
- Opportunities across different economic conditions.
- Skills that remain valuable over time.
- Multiple career advancement pathways.
Data Sources and Verification Date
CareerInTrades uses publicly available occupational, employment, workforce, and training data from government and industry sources.
1. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)
Primary Sources:
- Occupational Outlook Handbook (OOH)
- Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS)
- Employment Projections Program
Data Used:
- Employment projections
- Annual job openings
- Median wages
- Employment size
- Education requirements
- Training requirements
- Occupational outlook
Data Period:
2024–2034 Employment Projections and May 2024 Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics.
Verification Date:
July 21, 2026
2. O*NET OnLine
O*NET occupational profiles were used to evaluate technical characteristics, automation exposure, skills, and work activities.
Data Used:
- Required skills
- Knowledge areas
- Work activities
- Technology usage
- Automation-related information
- Physical work characteristics
Verification Date:
July 21, 2026
3. CareerOneStop
CareerOneStop, sponsored by the U.S. Department of Labor, was used as a supporting career and workforce information source.
Data Used:
- Career profiles
- Training pathways
- Career advancement information
- Employment information
Verification Date:
July 21, 2026
4. Apprenticeship.gov
Apprenticeship.gov information was reviewed to evaluate occupations with established workforce entry and replacement pathways.
Data Used:
- Registered Apprenticeship programs
- Employer participation
- Earn-while-you-learn opportunities
- Training availability
Verification Date:
July 21, 2026
5. U.S. Department of Labor Workforce Reports
Workforce reports were reviewed to evaluate skilled labor shortages, retirement trends, and future workforce needs.
Data Used:
- Labor shortage information
- Workforce replacement needs
- Industry workforce trends
- Employment challenges
Verification Date:
July 21, 2026
Ranking Formula
Each occupation receives a Long-Term Job Security Score between 0 and 100 points.
The final score is calculated using six weighted career security indicators:
Long-Term Job Security Score =
Long-Term Employment Demand × 30%
+
Replacement Demand & Retirement Risk × 20%
+
Industry Necessity × 20%
+
Automation Resistance × 15%
+
Career Advancement Opportunities × 10%
+
Geographic Employment Availability × 5%
Swipe horizontally to view the complete ranking data table.
| Ranking Factor | Weight | Maximum Points |
|---|---|---|
| Long-Term Employment Demand | 30% | 30 points |
| Replacement Demand & Retirement Risk | 20% | 20 points |
| Industry Necessity | 20% | 20 points |
| Automation Resistance | 15% | 15 points |
| Career Advancement Opportunities | 10% | 10 points |
| Geographic Employment Availability | 5% | 5 points |
Indicator Definitions and Weights
Long-Term Employment Demand: 30%
This is the highest-weighted factor because future employment demand is the foundation of career security.
The evaluation considers:
- BLS employment projections.
- Annual job openings.
- Industry expansion.
- Long-term workforce needs.
Trades with consistent demand receive higher scores.
Replacement Demand & Retirement Risk: 20%
Many skilled trades face significant replacement needs as experienced workers retire.
The evaluation considers:
- Retirement trends.
- Existing workforce age.
- Need for new workers.
- Apprenticeship pathways.
Occupations with strong replacement demand often provide stable opportunities for new entrants.
Industry Necessity: 20%
This factor evaluates whether the trade supports essential systems and services.
The evaluation considers:
- Infrastructure importance.
- Residential necessity.
- Commercial demand.
- Industrial importance.
Trades supporting essential services typically maintain stronger demand during economic changes.
Automation Resistance: 15%
This factor evaluates how resistant the occupation is to automation and technological replacement.
The evaluation considers:
- Need for physical presence.
- Complex troubleshooting.
- Customer interaction.
- Unpredictable work environments.
Career Advancement Opportunities: 10%
This factor measures whether workers can continue developing professionally.
The evaluation considers:
- Specialization opportunities.
- Licensing advancement.
- Leadership roles.
- Business ownership potential.
Geographic Employment Availability: 5%
This factor evaluates whether opportunities exist across different regions of the United States.
The evaluation considers:
- National employer demand.
- Regional availability.
- Industry diversity.
Scoring Interpretation
Swipe horizontally to view the complete ranking data table.
| Score Range | Job Security Level |
|---|---|
| 90–100 | Exceptional long-term career security |
| 80–89 | Very strong long-term security |
| 70–79 | Strong career stability |
| 60–69 | Moderate stability |
| Below 60 | Higher long-term uncertainty |
Inclusion Rules
An occupation must meet the following requirements to be included:
- Recognized as a skilled trade or technical occupation.
- Has reliable national employment data.
- Does not require a four-year college degree as the standard entry path.
- Provides recognized training or apprenticeship opportunities.
- Has meaningful long-term employer demand.
- Offers career advancement opportunities.
Exclusion Rules
The following occupations are excluded:
- Professional careers requiring advanced academic degrees.
- Temporary jobs without career development pathways.
- Occupations with limited employment data.
- Military-only occupations without civilian equivalents.
- Management positions rather than hands-on technical careers.
- Occupations with declining long-term demand.
Important Interpretation Notes
Job security does not mean a career will never change. Technology, economic conditions, and industry needs continue evolving.
The most secure skilled trades are those where workers continue adapting, learning new technologies, and developing specialized expertise.
A trade career with strong fundamentals, continuous demand, and opportunities for specialization is more likely to provide long-term professional stability.
Readers should compare this national ranking with local employment conditions, apprenticeship availability, licensing requirements, and personal career goals.
Original Ranking Dataset
The following dataset represents the original scoring information used to calculate the CareerInTrades Best Skilled Trades for Long-Term Job Security Ranking.
Each trade career was evaluated using six long-term employment security factors:
- Long-Term Employment Demand
- Replacement Demand & Retirement Risk
- Industry Necessity
- Automation Resistance
- Career Advancement Opportunities
- Geographic Employment Availability
Swipe horizontally to view the complete ranking data table.
| Rank | Trade Career | Employment Demand | Replacement Demand | Industry Necessity | Automation Resistance | Career Growth | Geographic Availability | Final Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Electrician | 96 | 95 | 100 | 96 | 98 | 100 | 97.0 |
| 2 | Plumber | 92 | 96 | 100 | 98 | 96 | 100 | 95.8 |
| 3 | HVAC Technician | 94 | 90 | 100 | 95 | 94 | 100 | 94.8 |
| 4 | Industrial Maintenance Technician | 96 | 88 | 98 | 94 | 96 | 92 | 94.0 |
| 5 | Diesel Mechanic | 88 | 92 | 96 | 95 | 90 | 96 | 92.1 |
| 6 | Automotive Technician | 86 | 90 | 95 | 92 | 88 | 100 | 91.0 |
| 7 | Sheet Metal Worker | 84 | 88 | 92 | 90 | 88 | 94 | 89.0 |
| 8 | Welder | 82 | 86 | 88 | 88 | 86 | 96 | 87.0 |
| 9 | Elevator Mechanic | 86 | 90 | 94 | 96 | 92 | 88 | 90.7 |
| 10 | Lineworker | 90 | 86 | 98 | 92 | 88 | 90 | 90.4 |
Supporting Labor Market Data
The following table summarizes employment information used to evaluate long-term career stability.
Swipe horizontally to view the complete ranking data table.
| Trade Career | BLS Occupational Category | Median Annual Wage | 2024–2034 Outlook | Annual Openings | Main Security Driver |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Electrician | Electricians | $62,350 | 9% growth | 81,000+ | Essential electrical infrastructure and energy transition |
| Plumber | Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters | $62,970 | 4% growth | 44,000+ | Essential water, sanitation, and building systems |
| HVAC Technician | Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers | $59,810 | 8% growth | 40,000+ | Climate control and energy efficiency demand |
| Industrial Maintenance Technician | Industrial Machinery Mechanics, Machinery Maintenance Workers, and Millwrights | $63,510 | 13% growth | 54,000+ | Factory automation and equipment maintenance |
| Diesel Mechanic | Diesel Service Technicians and Mechanics | $60,640 | 2% growth | 26,000+ | Transportation and heavy equipment dependency |
| Automotive Technician | Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics | $49,670 | 4% growth | 70,000+ | Vehicle repair and advanced diagnostics |
| Sheet Metal Worker | Sheet Metal Workers | $60,850 | 2% growth | 10,000+ | HVAC and building construction demand |
| Welder | Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers | $51,000 | 2% growth | 45,000+ | Manufacturing and infrastructure repair |
| Elevator Mechanic | Elevator and Escalator Installers and Repairers | $102,420 | 6% growth | 2,500+ | Specialized maintenance and limited workforce supply |
| Lineworker | Electrical Power-Line Installers and Repairers | $63,250 | 6% growth | 10,000+ | Critical power grid infrastructure |
Best Skilled Trades for Long-Term Job Security Ranking
1. Electrician
Long-Term Job Security Score: 97.0/100
Electrician ranks first because electrical systems are among the most essential components of modern society. Homes, businesses, transportation systems, manufacturing facilities, and renewable energy infrastructure all depend on skilled electrical professionals.
The occupation combines strong demand, retirement replacement needs, technology growth, and resistance to automation.
Why Electrician Ranks #1
- Electricity is a fundamental necessity across all industries.
- Renewable energy expansion increases electrical demand.
- Electric vehicle charging infrastructure creates new opportunities.
- Automation and smart buildings require electrical expertise.
- Large apprenticeship system supports workforce replacement.
Long-Term Demand Factors
- Residential construction.
- Commercial building systems.
- Industrial automation.
- Solar and renewable energy projects.
- Infrastructure modernization.
Automation Risk
Electricians have relatively low automation risk because electrical work requires physical installation, troubleshooting, safety judgment, and adaptation to unique job environments.
Career Path
- Electrical Apprentice
- Journeyman Electrician
- Master Electrician
- Electrical Contractor
- Business Owner
2. Plumber
Long-Term Job Security Score: 95.8/100
Plumber ranks second because water, sanitation, and piping systems are essential services that require continuous installation, maintenance, and repair.
Unlike many industries affected by technology changes, plumbing demand remains consistent because every community requires functioning water systems.
Why Plumber Ranks #2
- Essential service with constant maintenance needs.
- Strong replacement demand from retiring workers.
- Licensing requirements protect skill value.
- Excellent entrepreneurship opportunities.
- Demand exists in residential, commercial, and industrial markets.
Long-Term Demand Factors
- Housing maintenance.
- Commercial construction.
- Infrastructure upgrades.
- Water efficiency projects.
- Industrial piping systems.
Automation Risk
Plumbing has very low automation risk because each project involves unique environments, physical installation, diagnosis, and problem solving.
Career Path
- Plumbing Apprentice
- Journeyman Plumber
- Master Plumber
- Plumbing Contractor
- Business Owner
3. HVAC Technician
Long-Term Job Security Score: 94.8/100
HVAC Technician ranks third because climate control systems have become essential in residential, commercial, healthcare, and industrial environments.
Growing demand for energy efficiency, heat pumps, smart systems, and building automation strengthens the long-term outlook.
Why HVAC Technician Ranks #3
- Heating and cooling systems are essential services.
- Climate conditions increase demand for HVAC systems.
- Energy efficiency upgrades create new opportunities.
- Technology increases the need for skilled technicians.
- Strong potential for business ownership.
Long-Term Demand Factors
- Residential HVAC replacement.
- Commercial building systems.
- Refrigeration demand.
- Heat pump adoption.
- Building automation.
Automation Risk
HVAC technicians remain difficult to replace because diagnosing system problems requires physical inspection, technical judgment, and customer interaction.
Career Path
- HVAC Helper
- HVAC Technician
- Commercial HVAC Specialist
- HVAC Controls Technician
- HVAC Business Owner
4. Industrial Maintenance Technician
Long-Term Job Security Score: 94.0/100
Industrial Maintenance Technician ranks fourth because modern manufacturing depends increasingly on skilled workers who maintain advanced equipment, robotics, and automated production systems.
Why Industrial Maintenance Technician Ranks #4
- Automation increases maintenance requirements.
- Manufacturing facilities require continuous equipment support.
- Technical skills are difficult to replace.
- Strong wage potential.
- Opportunities in advanced manufacturing.
Long-Term Demand Factors
- Factory automation.
- Robotics maintenance.
- Industrial equipment repair.
- Manufacturing expansion.
Automation Risk
Automation creates more demand for maintenance technicians because automated systems still require human installation, repair, programming, and troubleshooting.
Career Path
- Maintenance Technician
- Industrial Maintenance Specialist
- Controls Technician
- Maintenance Supervisor
- Automation Manager
5. Diesel Mechanic
Long-Term Job Security Score: 92.1/100
Diesel Mechanic ranks fifth because transportation, construction, agriculture, and logistics industries depend heavily on reliable equipment maintenance.
Why Diesel Mechanic Ranks #5
- Heavy equipment requires specialized repair skills.
- Fleet maintenance remains essential.
- Mechanical diagnostics are difficult to automate.
- Strong demand in multiple industries.
- Technology creates opportunities in advanced systems.
Long-Term Demand Factors
- Commercial trucking.
- Construction equipment.
- Agricultural machinery.
- Government fleets.
- Industrial vehicles.
Career Path
- Diesel Technician Trainee
- Diesel Mechanic
- Fleet Specialist
- Heavy Equipment Technician
- Maintenance Supervisor
6. Automotive Technician
Long-Term Job Security Score: 91.0/100
Automotive Technician ranks sixth because vehicle ownership, transportation systems, and advanced automotive technology create continuous demand for skilled repair professionals.
Although vehicles are becoming more computerized and electrified, this technological transition increases the need for technicians who understand diagnostics, electronics, software systems, and mechanical repair.
Why Automotive Technician Ranks #6
- Millions of vehicles require ongoing maintenance and repair.
- Modern vehicles require advanced diagnostic skills.
- EV and hybrid technology create new technical opportunities.
- Fleet companies require skilled maintenance workers.
- Transportation remains essential to the economy.
Long-Term Demand Factors
- Vehicle maintenance and repair.
- Electric vehicle service.
- Fleet maintenance operations.
- Advanced automotive diagnostics.
- Commercial transportation support.
Automation Risk
Automotive repair has relatively low automation risk because technicians must physically inspect vehicles, identify problems, perform repairs, and make decisions based on unique conditions.
Career Path
- Automotive Technician Trainee
- Service Technician
- Diagnostic Specialist
- Master Automotive Technician
- Shop Manager or Business Owner
7. Sheet Metal Worker
Long-Term Job Security Score: 89.0/100
Sheet Metal Worker ranks seventh because building systems, HVAC infrastructure, and fabrication work will continue to require skilled professionals.
The occupation benefits from demand in construction, commercial buildings, heating and cooling systems, and industrial manufacturing.
Why Sheet Metal Worker Ranks #7
- Supports essential building infrastructure.
- Connected to HVAC replacement and installation demand.
- Apprenticeship pathways provide workforce entry.
- Fabrication skills are difficult to automate completely.
- Provides specialization opportunities.
Long-Term Demand Factors
- Commercial building construction.
- HVAC ductwork installation.
- Building renovations.
- Industrial fabrication.
- Energy-efficient building upgrades.
Automation Risk
Some fabrication processes may become more automated, but field installation, adjustment, repair, and project-specific work continue requiring skilled workers.
Career Path
- Sheet Metal Apprentice
- Sheet Metal Worker
- HVAC Fabrication Specialist
- Project Lead
- Contractor
8. Welder
Long-Term Job Security Score: 87.0/100
Welder ranks eighth because manufacturing, infrastructure, transportation, and energy industries continue requiring skilled fabrication professionals.
While some repetitive welding tasks may become automated, advanced welding, repair work, and specialized fabrication remain dependent on skilled workers.
Why Welder Ranks #8
- Required in multiple industrial sectors.
- Specialized welding skills remain valuable.
- Infrastructure projects require fabrication expertise.
- Certification can increase career opportunities.
- Advanced welding technology creates new specialties.
Long-Term Demand Factors
- Manufacturing production.
- Energy infrastructure.
- Shipbuilding.
- Construction projects.
- Industrial repair.
Automation Risk
Basic repetitive welding may face increased automation, but complex welding, field repair, custom fabrication, and precision work remain difficult to replace.
Career Path
- Entry-Level Welder
- Certified Welder
- Specialized Welder
- Welding Inspector
- Welding Supervisor
9. Elevator Mechanic
Long-Term Job Security Score: 90.7/100
Elevator Mechanic ranks ninth because it is a highly specialized trade with strong wages, limited workforce supply, and ongoing maintenance requirements.
Although the occupation has fewer total positions than larger trades, specialized expertise creates strong employment stability.
Why Elevator Mechanic Ranks #9
- Elevator systems require regular inspection and maintenance.
- Limited qualified workforce increases demand.
- High technical skill requirements create career protection.
- Urban development supports long-term need.
- Strong earning potential.
Long-Term Demand Factors
- Commercial building maintenance.
- High-rise construction.
- Elevator modernization projects.
- Safety regulations.
- Equipment replacement cycles.
Automation Risk
Elevator maintenance requires physical inspection, troubleshooting, safety judgment, and repair decisions, creating relatively low automation risk.
Career Path
- Elevator Apprentice
- Elevator Mechanic
- Senior Technician
- Supervisor
- Elevator Contractor
10. Lineworker
Long-Term Job Security Score: 90.4/100
Lineworker ranks tenth because electrical power infrastructure is essential and communities depend on reliable electricity systems.
Power grid modernization, renewable energy integration, and infrastructure replacement continue creating demand for skilled lineworkers.
Why Lineworker Ranks #10
- Electricity infrastructure is essential.
- Grid upgrades require skilled workers.
- Emergency restoration work creates ongoing demand.
- Training pathways are well established.
- Technical skills are difficult to automate.
Long-Term Demand Factors
- Power grid modernization.
- Storm restoration.
- Renewable energy connections.
- Transmission upgrades.
- Utility infrastructure maintenance.
Automation Risk
Linework requires working in unpredictable outdoor environments, performing repairs, and making safety-critical decisions, resulting in low automation risk.
Career Path
- Lineworker Apprentice
- Journeyman Lineworker
- Crew Leader
- Foreman
- Utility Operations Manager
Key Findings
The most secure skilled trades share several characteristics: they support essential services, require hands-on expertise, and cannot easily be replaced by automation.
CareerInTrades identified several major trends from this ranking:
1. Essential Services Create Strong Career Stability
Trades connected to critical infrastructure generally provide stronger long-term security.
Examples include:
- Electrical systems
- Water and plumbing infrastructure
- Heating and cooling systems
- Power distribution
- Industrial equipment maintenance
These systems require continuous installation, repair, and maintenance regardless of economic conditions.
2. Maintenance Careers Often Provide Stronger Security Than Construction-Only Roles
New construction demand can fluctuate with economic cycles. However, maintenance and repair work often remains necessary.
Examples:
- HVAC repair
- Electrical maintenance
- Vehicle repair
- Industrial equipment service
- Building system maintenance
3. Technology Usually Changes Trades Instead of Eliminating Them
Many skilled trades are becoming more technology-focused rather than disappearing.
Examples:
- Electricians work with smart buildings and renewable energy.
- HVAC technicians use digital diagnostics.
- Automotive technicians repair computerized vehicles.
- Industrial technicians maintain automated factories.
Workers who continue learning new technologies often improve their long-term career security.
Most Recession-Resistant Skilled Trades
| Trade | Why It Remains Stable |
|---|---|
| Electrician | Electrical systems require continuous installation and maintenance. |
| Plumber | Water and sanitation systems require ongoing repair. |
| HVAC Technician | Heating and cooling are essential building services. |
| Industrial Maintenance Technician | Factories require equipment maintenance regardless of production changes. |
| Diesel Mechanic | Transportation and equipment fleets require regular service. |
Trades With Lowest Automation Risk
Swipe horizontally to view the complete ranking data table.
| Trade | Automation Resistance Reason |
|---|---|
| Plumber | Unique job environments require diagnosis and physical repair. |
| Electrician | Installation and troubleshooting require human judgment. |
| HVAC Technician | System diagnosis requires field evaluation. |
| Elevator Mechanic | Safety-critical maintenance requires skilled technicians. |
| Lineworker | Outdoor infrastructure work requires human decision-making. |
Best Trades for 20-Year Careers
Swipe horizontally to view the complete ranking data table.
| Career Goal | Recommended Trades |
|---|---|
| Maximum Stability | Electrician, Plumber, HVAC Technician |
| Technology Growth | Industrial Maintenance Technician, Automotive Technician |
| High Income Potential | Elevator Mechanic, Electrician, Plumber |
| Business Ownership | HVAC Technician, Plumber, Electrician |
| Infrastructure Careers | Lineworker, Electrician, Diesel Mechanic |
Career Security Comparison
Swipe horizontally to view the complete ranking data table.
| Career | Demand | Automation Resistance | Long-Term Security |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electrician | Very High | Very High | Excellent |
| Plumber | High | Very High | Excellent |
| HVAC Technician | Very High | High | Excellent |
| Industrial Maintenance Technician | Very High | High | Excellent |
| Diesel Mechanic | High | High | Very Good |
Example Career Paths
- Electrician:
Apprentice → Journeyman → Master Electrician → Contractor - Plumber:
Apprentice → Journeyman → Master Plumber → Business Owner - HVAC Technician:
Helper → Technician → Specialist → HVAC Company Owner - Industrial Maintenance Technician:
Technician → Controls Specialist → Maintenance Manager - Lineworker:
Apprentice → Journeyman → Crew Leader → Utility Manager
Explore Career Guides
Learn more about skilled trade careers:
- Electrician Career Guide
- Plumber Career Guide
- HVAC Technician Career Guide
- Industrial Maintenance Technician Career Guide
- Diesel Mechanic Career Guide
- Automotive Technician Career Guide
- Sheet Metal Worker Career Guide
- Welder Career Guide
- Elevator Mechanic Career Guide
- Lineworker Career Guide
Editorial Note
CareerInTrades rankings are independently developed using publicly available occupational information from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, O*NET Online, CareerOneStop, Apprenticeship.gov, and workforce development resources.
This ranking evaluates skilled trades based on long-term employment security, industry necessity, workforce replacement demand, automation resistance, and career development opportunities.
No career can guarantee permanent employment. Long-term success depends on continuous learning, adapting to technology changes, maintaining professional skills, and choosing opportunities aligned with individual goals.
CareerInTrades recommends combining national rankings with local labor market conditions, apprenticeship availability, licensing requirements, and personal interests when making career decisions.
Primary Data Sources:
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook; Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics; Employment Projections Program; O*NET Online; CareerOneStop; Apprenticeship.gov.
Wage Data Period: May 2024
Employment Projection Period: 2024–2034
Data Verification Date: July 25, 2026
Last Updated: July 2026
Written by Career In Trades Editorial Team