There are a lot of misconceptions when it comes to Skilled Trades jobs. Too often, these positions have a negative connotation, with no facts to back it. The simple truth is that skilled trade jobs contain many benefits.

Benefits of the Skilled Trades

There are many benefits of the skilled trade, too many to list. Here are 5 benefits that people don’t think skilled trades receive, but in fact, they do:

School

While four year degrees are also very valuable, there are many additional benefits to trade school degrees. The majority of training programs for the skilled trades last from 6 months to 2 years, cutting down the time it takes to graduate at least by half when compared to a four-year degree and also allowing you to enter the work force sooner. Some trade schools cost as little as $2,000, which is drastically lower than a typical college education.

Pay

The range for the skilled trades is $12-$34/hour for a median of $21/hour. While other occupations had a median of $16/hour. A study found that while the ceiling was higher for white collar jobs, the median was actually higher for blue collar jobs.

Security

Most jobs can be outsourced—but not the hands-on careers. Without the skilled trades our society would literally crumble. Even in tough economic times, plumbing is a necessity. The needs to have functioning plumbing, electricity, etc. will never be obsolete, therefore, job security is a given for these positions.

Availability

Skilled tradesmen are in demand everywhere. In the next two years, 2.5 million new jobs will be added to the workforce. This growth accounts for nearly 40% of all expected job growth. Plus, as baby boomers begin to retire from skilled trade jobs, fewer younger people are pursuing these types of careers. That has left 62% of firms struggling to fill important skilled trade positions.

Satisfaction

70% of Americans are dissatisfied with their jobs. Doing skillful manual labor creates a sense of satisfaction. One study found that the happiest jobs allow for interpersonal relationship, require specialized skills that prohibit outsourcing and obsolescence, and create a sense of pride in the worker for a job well done, just as in the skilled trades profession. 

Every Tradesman is an Entrepreneur

Own Boss

They chose their own location, own principles and salary. Autonomy in the workplace allows you to have freedom in how and where work is completed.

Marketing

Their good quality work brings the “word of mouth” strategy. Word of mouth marketing creates trust with customers, builds a personal brand, and provides long-term value from reoccurring customers.

Happiest

They are confident about their jobs and their future. With jobs that are satisfying and secure (among other benefits), it’s easy to be happy in the trades profession and optimistic about the future.

Hours

They can work year round or keep flexible work hours. One study found that job flexibility ensures tradesmen are the nation’s happiest workers.

Conditions

They choose to connect with customers, work onsite, or in a tech lab. Forming connections with people you interact with at work leads to great work conditions and  more effort put forth.

If you’re ready to take the next step in your plumbing career, contact Ben Franklin Plumbing today. We have proudly served Minneapolis, St. Paul and the greater Twin Cities Metro area since 2005. Our plumbing professionals are experienced, highly qualified, and follow our code of ethics. Contact us today or share this post with anyone interested in the plumbing profession.

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