The Top 7 High-Paying Trade Careers Teens Should Consider (No Four-Year Degree Required)

College isn't the only path to a great career. In fact, many teens can launch into stable, high-paying careers without spending four years in a university lecture hall. Trade jobs, also known as skilled trades or vocational careers, offer hands-on training, short programs, and strong income potential—often with less debt and more job security.

If your teen is more hands-on, entrepreneurial, or eager to enter the workforce sooner, a trade might be the perfect fit. Here are seven high-paying trade careers worth considering after high school, plus details on salary, training time, and job outlook.

1. Electrician

Median Salary: $61,590/year
Training Time: 9 months to 2 years (plus apprenticeship)
Why It's Great: Electricians are in high demand across residential, commercial, and industrial sectors. Many begin earning while in apprenticeship programs and can grow to journeyman or master electrician.
Job Growth Outlook: 6% growth from 2022 to 2032 (per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)

2. Elevator and Escalator Installer/Repairer

Median Salary: $99,000/year
Training Time: 4-year apprenticeship
Why It's Great: This is one of the highest-paid trades with solid union support and excellent benefits. It requires mechanical skills and physical fitness, great for your gear head.
Job Growth Outlook: 3% from 2022 to 2032

3. Dental Hygienist

Median Salary: $81,400/year
Training Time: 2 to 3 years (Associate's Degree)
Why It's Great: Dental hygienists enjoy flexible schedules, clean work environments, and competitive pay. Most programs are offered at community colleges and include actionable hands-on training.
Job Growth Outlook: 7% growth from 2022 to 2032

4. HVAC Technician (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning)

Median Salary: $57,300/year
Training Time: 6 months to 2 years
Why It's Great: Every building needs heating and cooling. HVAC techs enjoy job security, independence, and often use mobile technology. Many work in residential or commercial maintenance.
Job Growth Outlook: 6% from 2022 to 2032

5. Ultrasound Technician (Diagnostic Medical Sonographer)

Median Salary: $81,350/year
Training Time: 2 years (Associate's Degree or accredited certificate program)
Why It's Great: A healthcare job without nursing or med school. Sonographers use ultrasound imaging for patient diagnostics, often in hospitals or outpatient care centers. Radiology is also a comparable specialty to look into.
Job Growth Outlook: 10% from 2022 to 2032

6. Plumber

Median Salary: $61,550/year
Training Time: 1 to 2 years (plus apprenticeship)
Why It's Great: Plumbers are essential workers. Their work can’t be outsourced or automated, and many go on to start their own businesses.
Job Growth Outlook: 2% from 2022 to 2032

7. Wind Turbine Technician

Median Salary: $57,320/year
Training Time: 1 to 2 years (technical school)
Why It's Great: A fast-growing green energy job. Wind techs install, inspect, and repair wind turbines, often working outdoors and at heights.
Job Growth Outlook: 45% from 2022 to 2032 (much faster than average)

Why Trade Careers Deserve a Second Look

College is a very popular and often expected next step for high schoolers these days, but trade careers can be a good fit for:

Lower Education Costs: Many trade programs cost less than one year of college tuition. Check out our college calculator to compare!
Faster Path to Earnings: Most trades allow students to start earning in less than two years.
Strong Demand: Many skilled trades are experiencing worker shortages, driving up wages.
Entrepreneurial Potential: Skilled workers often go on to launch their own businesses.

See our article comparing the ROI (return on investment) for college versus trade school for more information.

Encourage your teen to explore their options beyond the traditional college path. A well-chosen trade can lead to a fulfilling, financially stable future—with no four-year degree required!