Trade careers encompass everything from electricians to dental hygienists. If you’re interested in a Florida career that requires training but not a bachelor’s degree, you’re in the right place.
Trade careers in Florida offer ample job opportunities, room for overtime pay, and stability in the face of economic uncertainty. From contractors to welders, there is a trade for every type of person and interest.
This article will cover:
- Top trade careers in Florida
- Stability of trade careers
- Trade salaries in FL
- And more!
Types of Trade Careers in Florida
Skilled trades are jobs that require a special set of skills and training. This knowledge is given through a technical school, community college, trade program, or apprenticeship.
Programs can last anywhere from a few months to four years and almost all of them include hands-on work experience.
For those in Florida, look for a program that is accredited by the Commission of the Council on Occupational Education (COE).
Some of the most common and best-paid trade careers in Florida are:
- Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) technicians
- Contractors
- Electricians
- Welders
- Plumbers
- Boilermakers
- Construction managers
- Home inspectors
- Dental hygienists
- Radiation therapists
- Ultrasonographers
- Mechanics
If you want further details about how to begin your trade career, check out some of the links we included in the list above.
Are Trade Careers Stable?
It’s no secret that the U.S. is facing economic uncertainty. After recent events like the pandemic and the war in Ukraine, many job sectors have frozen hiring or begun to implement layoffs. Historically, trade careers have remained more stable and in demand than other sectors during recessions or dips in the market.
Construction Trades
Let’s take a look at the construction sector in Florida, where many trades are found. As per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in this sector has steadily risen from 2019 through 2022. This includes a brief dip in the first three months of 2021, but this soon evened out and surpassed 2020’s numbers.
Utility Trades
Those working as electricians or in other utility trades have also seen a steady increase in job opportunities in Florida from 2019 to 2022. Again, after a slight dip in early 2021, this field rebounded and has been increasing ever since.
Unemployment Rates
During the same period discussed above, from 2019 to 2021, Florida’s unemployment rate skyrocketed from 3.5% to 12.5% and then back down to around 5% – that is still almost 50% higher than the pre-pandemic average.
While other sectors are experiencing unemployment and doubt, the trade sectors are growing and offering more opportunities than ever.
FL Trade Career Salaries
Many trade careers offer you the chance to receive paid, hands-on training – especially if you are completing an apprenticeship.
Once you’re in the field, you can grow your salary by acquiring additional certifications, working overtime, and even working your way up, if your trade permits.
As per Indeed, here are the average salaries for some of the most common trades in Florida. Keep in mind that these salaries tend to increase significantly over time and with experience.
- HVAC Technician: $45,947
- Electrician: $50,074
- Certified welder: $61,612
- Plumber: $50,136
- Contractor: $87,200
- Construction manager: $73,214
- Mechanic: $54,644
- Home inspector: $53,693
So, is a trade career for you? Only one way to find out!
