Why Woodworking and Manual Trades Are Still in Demand

Today, more and more students are turning away from the conventional route of earning a college degree to get a job in lieu of alternative careers. Trades like woodworking and similar occupations offer talented students the opportunity to embark on a fruitful and rewarding career in their trade of choice. Read on to learn why certain trades are still in demand in 2020.

There’s an Increase in Demand for Skilled Tradespeople

Trades like woodworking are constantly in demand, regardless of the season. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) woodworkers manufacture a variety of products such as cabinets and furniture, using wood, veneers, and laminates. A high school diploma or equivalent is typically required to become a woodworker. Although some entry-level jobs can be learned in less than 1 year, becoming fully proficient generally takes several years of on-the-job training. The ability to use computer-controlled machinery is becoming increasingly important. The median annual wage for woodworkers was $32,690 in May 2019.

Carpenters work indoors and outdoors on many types of construction projects, from installing kitchen cabinets to constructing, repairing, and installing building frameworks and structures made from wood and other materials. Carpenters typically learn on the job and through apprenticeships. The median annual wage for carpenters was $48,330 in May 2019.

Job vacancies in electrical, construction, and industrial trades make these types of careers ideal for anyone hoping to have guaranteed work after completing their training. As more people move away from apprenticeships and trades, the demand for skilled workers will only increase.

Tradespeople Earn High Salaries

While pursuing a career as a tradesperson may not be as popular as it once was, these types of jobs come with a high salary. Skilled tradespeople can earn upwards of $75k, depending on the job and level of certification. Many experienced tradespeople even make six figures or more.

For example, the median income for heavy-duty equipment technicians is $107,220 on average. With this type of salary and job security, working in a trade can be very lucrative for the right person.

Apprentices Get Paid to Learn

One benefit of working as a tradesperson is that students are compensated as they learn. Education for trades is easily accessible and apprentices get paid during their training. For example, if you’re an apprentice with a contractor that installs engineered oak flooring, you’ll receive a trainee’s salary during your time working with them.

In addition to having the opportunity to get paid for training, individuals interested in apprenticing for a trade can also take advantage of government funding. The government offers deductions, loans, and grants to help tradespeople get started in their new profession.

Certified Tradespeople Work Anywhere in the World

Another reason manual trades are still in demand in modern times is the fact that this type of career has a lot of portability. There will always be a demand for tradespeople around the world. Tradespeople that are qualified to do so can earn their red seal certification, allowing them to work anywhere in the world. With the right qualifications, you can take your skillset all over the country and the globe.

Trades like woodworking offer many perks that other conventional job opportunities do not. Keep this information in mind as you consider all the benefits of working as a skilled tradesperson.

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Brooke Chaplan is a freelance writer and blogger. She lives and works out of her home in Los Lunas, New Mexico. She loves the outdoors and spends most of her time hiking, biking, and gardening. For more information, contact Brooke via Facebook at facebook.com/brooke.chaplan or Twitter @BrookeChaplan