If you’re considering going to school for a trades profession, but are unsure which path is right for you, explore this list of the highest-paying trades jobs. Find out why the need — and the wages — for skilled trade workers are on the rise.

The workforce has undergone a major transformation in recent years, reshaping how — and where — people want to work. Advancements in technology, evolving career priorities, and a growing emphasis on work-life balance have all influenced today’s job market. As a result, traditional career paths are being reconsidered, and hands-on, skill-based professions are gaining renewed attention.

All the while, attitudes toward higher education are changing. More people are questioning the time and cost of traditional four-year degrees and instead exploring faster, more affordable paths into the workforce.

The result? A revival of the trades.

What are trades jobs?

According to Bring Back the Trades, any career path requiring hands-on work and specialty knowledge qualifies as a trade. This includes work in industries such as:

• Construction. From roofers to plumbers to electricians to carpenters.
• Transportation. Think CDL truck drivers, aviation maintenance, mechanics, and heavy equipment operators.
• Services. From phlebotomists to MRI technicians to hair stylists to EMTs.
• Manufacturing. Tool and die makers, machinists, and welders all fall under this category.

Industries like these are essential to our daily lives, and as a result, the demand for trade workers is not going away. There will always be a need for people in trade fields like mechanics, nursing, manufacturing, dental hygiene, welding, and technology. Trades professions are ever-important contributors to our daily lives.

Trades careers do not require a bachelor’s degree — most only require some postsecondary education (like an associate degree or certificate) and/or training to get started.

Why do trades jobs pay well?

For years, the US has faced a growing talent shortage across all areas of the workforce — especially in skilled trades, where baby boomers are retiring, and younger generations aren’t prepared to step in. According to the US Department of Education, by 2030, an estimated 2.1 million skilled trades jobs could go unfilled.

With low supply and high demand, companies have started getting creative to attract skilled candidates. For this reason, many employers have pushed for higher pay, along with generous time-off policies, tuition reimbursement programs, enhanced benefits packages, and more. Those with the skills to fill positions are directly benefiting.

And the best part? They don’t have to spend a lot of time getting there. Career-focused schools offer a direct route to in-demand trades — often without the burden of long-term student debt.

If you are considering going to school for a trades career, you are not alone. More and more people are recognizing the value of trades professions, along with the monetary value they can bring to their lives. In fact, many bachelor’s degree holders are going back to school to enter a skilled trades field, where they can qualify for a high-paying position and enjoy a hands-on career.

What are the top-paying trades jobs to go to school for?

Using the latest data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (2024), we’ve outlined some of the highest-paying trade careers and detailed how to get started in each one.

1. Dental hygienist: $94,260 annually

Dental hygienists provide preventive dental care to patients, examining for oral diseases, cleaning teeth, and teaching patients about proper oral health. Because dental hygienists only need an associate degree in Dental Hygiene to launch their careers, this is considered a trade profession. On average, dental hygienists in the United States earn $94,260 per year, a number that’s risen steadily over the years, keeping them toward the top of the list of high-paying trade careers.

2. Registered nurse: $93,600 annually

Registered Nurses (RNs) are the ones you see most often in a medical facility. They provide direct care to patients who are sick, injured, disabled, or simply seeking preventive care. Nurses are considered the backbone of the healthcare field and, as a result, enjoy a high salary. Nurses also only need an associate degree — taking about two years to complete — before becoming licensed in the field. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, RNs make an average of $93,600 annually.

3. Web developer: $95,380 annually

Web developers create and maintain websites. They may design and create content for the website, as well as manage the technical components that affect a website’s performance. There are back-end and front-end web developers, depending on whether you are interested in the technical or design side of the development process. While requirements vary for this profession, an associate degree is the standard for web developers today. On average, web developers earn $95,380 annually in the US.

Learn a trade at Goodwin University

4. MRI technician: $78,980 annually

An MRI technician is a type of radiologic technologist who operates magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanners to create diagnostic images. This position requires knowledge of advanced technology and basic healthcare knowledge, which in turn requires education. MRI technicians typically need an associate degree with coursework in anatomy, biology, chemistry, patient care, image evaluation, health science, and related topics. This investment in education can translate to an annual salary of $78,980.

5. Respiratory therapist: $80,450 annually

Respiratory therapists (RTs) care for patients who have trouble breathing. For example, patients struggling with asthma or other respiratory illnesses need the help of an RT. Listed as a high-paying trades career, Respiratory therapists only need a relevant associate degree to get licensed and start practicing/earning a salary. On average, respiratory therapists in the US earn $80,450 annually.

6. Construction or building inspector: $72,120 annually

In the construction of structures and buildings, it is essential to ensure everything is built to code. This is where construction and building inspectors come into play. These professionals assure the safety and stability of structures, and confirm they meet building codes, local ordinances, zoning regulations, and contract specifications. Due to the importance of their role, they are promised good pay. Construction and building inspectors earn an average of $72,120 annually in the United States. Generally speaking, only on-the-job training is required to land this role, making it a high-paying trade that doesn’t require formal education.

7. CNC operator: $57,700 annually

CNC operators work with computer numerically controlled machinery. These professionals enjoy a high-tech and cutting-edge career in the manufacturing field, playing a key role in the development of goods. CNC machine operators, in particular, control the technology that cuts the different parts and pieces needed to build products. To enter this field, a postsecondary certificate in CNC Machining is recommended, though you have the option to pursue an associate degree in CNC machining, as well. This means, in just a matter of months, you can earn an average of $57,700 annually.

8. Tool and die maker: $63,180 annually

Tool and die makers, much like CNC operators, are essential members of the manufacturing team. These professionals use advanced machines and technology to develop products and parts. They take measurements and specifications, convert them into computer-aided designs, and create blueprints that will be used in the production process. While CNC operators operate CNC machinery, tool and die makers are trained to program and operate it.

For this reason, it’s recommended that these professionals have advanced postsecondary training or an associate degree in CNC Machining. On average, tool and die makers earn $63,180 annually, nationwide, and more in states where machining is in particular demand.

9. Licensed practical nurse (LPN): $62,340 annually

Licensed practical nurses (LPNs) work under the supervision of registered nurses and doctors and are a crucial support to the healthcare team, monitoring patients’ vitals, administering basic medical care, assisting with hygiene, documenting progress, and communicating between healthcare teams and families. LPNs work most often in hospitals, long-term care facilities, clinics, and doctors’ offices. To enter this position, a postsecondary certificate or associate-level practical nursing program is required, followed by state licensure.

10. Industrial engineering technician: $62,810 annually

Another promising career option is an engineering technician. With an associate degree or certificate program in Engineering that offers the expertise to recommend improvements in the industry, incorporate new technologies, resolve problems, and further develop various processes, these professionals apply these ideas, create tasks, troubleshoot, and provide general maintenance on equipment. If you’re looking for a raise or more responsibility, and ready to move behind a desk rather than get your hands dirty operating equipment, running diagnostics, maintaining systems, and ensuring production runs smoothly, a technician may return to school to complete a bachelor’s or master’s degree.

Launching a high-paying trade career

From healthcare to criminal justice, manufacturing to technology, there are many high-paying trades that do not require a large investment in higher education. All of the above careers can be achieved with an associate degree or less.

If you are interested in pursuing a trades career, the best place to start your journey is at a career-focused college or university. Career-focused institutions, including trade schools, have programs that are specifically tailored to in-demand careers. Courses are taught by real professionals in the field, and you can gain practical training within your desired field. In a career-focused program, you can spend time in classes that will truly matter in your career path. Whether you want a hands-on career in dental hygiene or machining, this level of education will be your best step forward.

Learn the difference between a trade school and career-focused school here.

If you’d like to learn about Goodwin University, a career-focused university in Connecticut, do not hesitate to call us at 800-889-3282 today. Goodwin offers a variety of tailored programs that can help you launch a highly rewarding trades job. We also have connections with employers throughout Connecticut.

Call us today or visit us online here to learn more.