Break Into the Home Service Industry

The skilled trades are in high demand and on the brink of a hiring boom. According to the Associated Builders and Contractors, the construction sector will need to recruit approximately 439,000 additional workers in 2025 to meet labor demand. Meanwhile, the Home Builders Institute estimates the U.S. must hire around 723,000 workers annually just to sustain growth. With the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) showing faster-than-average job growth in construction and extraction occupations, the potential for strong career entry is clear.

While traditional four-year college degrees come with rising costs and questionable ROI, the trades offer fast-track education, hands-on learning, and immediate earning potential. For high school graduates, career changers, or re-entry workers, this guide lays out everything you need to know to get started.

Why It’s a Great Career Path

1. Pay & Stability

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median pay in 2025 was:

• Electricians: $62,350/year

• HVAC technicians: $51,390/year

• Plumbers: $60,090/year

Top-tier electricians and plumbers can earn over $100,000/year in high-demand regions. Construction pay overall continues to rise, with average hourly earnings reaching $38.30 in 2025. These jobs are also considered low risk for automation, making them some of the most stable careers in today’s economy.

2. Rapid Upskilling

The NCCER reports most core tradespeople are job-ready within 6–12 months of training. Many apprenticeship programs start workers at $18–25/hour, allowing them to earn while they learn. Fast-track certifications can launch a new career in under a year.

3. Entrepreneurial Upside

Roughly 1 in 3 tradespeople becomes self-employed within 10 years, according to Next Insurance. With relatively low startup costs and strong local demand, launching a successful trade business is an accessible path to long-term financial freedom.

Top Trades to Consider (2025)

HVAC

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning techs are in high demand due to growing concerns about energy efficiency and climate control. HVAC jobs are projected to grow 6% by 2032, faster than the average for all occupations.

Electrical

Electricians are vital to residential, commercial, and industrial infrastructure. The field is evolving with smart homes and solar integration. Job growth is projected at 11% through 2033, with a median wage of $62,350/year in 2024.

Plumbing

With nearly half of all U.S. plumbers over age 50, there’s a pressing need for new talent. The trade offers high wages, job security, and clear paths to licensing. Median wage in 2024: $60,090/year.

Solar / Roofing

The solar installation field is expected to grow 22% by 2032, making it one of the fastest-growing trades. As solar shingles and integrated roofing systems become mainstream, the overlap between roofing and solar tech is creating hybrid career paths.

Welding / General Carpentry

Welders and carpenters play a critical role in infrastructure and construction. Welding jobs are expected to grow 4% by 2032. These trades emphasize precision and creativity, with opportunities in both residential and industrial sectors.

How to Get Started

Trade Schools and Certifications

Vocational schools offer certificate programs that take 6–18 months to complete and often include job placement. Look for accreditation through organizations like the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC) or programs aligned with the NCCER.

Union vs. Non-Union

Union apprenticeships provide structured, paid training and long-term benefits. These typically last 4–5 years and culminate in journeyman certification. Non-union programs may offer more flexibility and faster entry but may lack some protections.

Apprenticeships

Registered apprenticeships are available through local unions, contractor associations, and state workforce agencies. These combine hands-on work with classroom instruction and are often the most affordable path into the trades.

Fast-Track / Accelerated Programs

Programs like Job Corps, Helmets to Hardhats, and community college bootcamps offer condensed training for rapid entry into the workforce—often tuition-free.

Veteran and Women’s Programs

Veterans can leverage military experience through credentialing assistance programs. Initiatives like Women in Construction offer mentorship, scholarships, and support networks for women entering male-dominated trades.

Resources

• Build Your Future (by NCCER)

• CareerOneStop Apprenticeship Finder

• Helmets to Hardhats

• Job Corps

• Women in Construction

• Home Builders Institute (HBI)

• MyNextMove.org – Skilled Trades

Final Notes

The trades aren't a fallback. They're a fast lane. With high demand, strong wages, quick training pathways, and entrepreneurial potential, they offer an attractive alternative to traditional college paths. Whether you're fresh out of school, changing careers, or restarting, there’s a place for you in the trades—and the industry is ready to welcome you.