The need for skilled tradespeople in this country is real, and the numbers are pretty eye-opening. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, our economy is projected to have around 81,000 electrician openings, 44,000 plumbing and pipefitting openings, 45,600 welding openings, and 40,100 HVAC openings every year over the next decade. That’s more than 210,000 opportunities annually in just four trades. The American Welding Society also estimates that the U.S. will need approximately 320,500 new welding professionals by 2029.
This topic is personal to me because my son is currently attending trade school in Waco, and I couldn’t be prouder of him. He is learning a valuable skill, building a career path, and working toward his goal of eventually owning and growing his own business.
Every person’s path is different, and traditional college isn’t for everyone. For some students, trade school can mean less student debt, a faster path into the workforce, strong earning potential, and the opportunity to build a business of their own.
We need to do a better job of showing young people that success doesn’t follow just one path. Our country needs plumbers, electricians, welders, HVAC technicians, and other skilled professionals, and choosing a trade is something worth celebrating.
