Did you know that every $1 billion in construction spending generates approximately 5,700 construction jobs? The demand for skilled craft labor is strong and growing. Keep reading to learn if a career in the skilled trades might be the right choice for you.
Benefits of Working in Skilled Trade Positions
A career in the skilled trades has many benefits including:
Seasonal Work. Since many craft labor jobs are seasonal, you may have the ability to be home during the summer and holidays. This gives you summer and winter to pursue other options or spend more time with family and friends. This may be a great option if you are looking for a career with more flexibility.
Travel. Depending on the company you choose, there can be plenty of opportunities for travel. You never know where you might end up for a job request, and you can experience all sorts of different sights just from being in construction! This is ideal for those who would like to travel more but were held back by their job or the expense of it.
Lasting Relationships. When you work and travel as a craft laborer, you make a lot of new relationships with coworkers. Many craftspeople we’ve spoken with talk about the camaraderie and friendships they have built on the job site that spills over even after the project is over.
Excellent Pay. Craft labor offers excellent pay, and many workers can earn up to six figures per year. It is important to note that your first year of work may not generate as much, but as you continue to work and gain experience, you will be able to earn higher wages.
Lots of Job Openings: The demand for craft labor is growing. In fact, there is a shortage of skilled workers in all trades. This improves your chances of getting the best opportunity for yourself.
Job Security. There is a shortage of skilled craftspeople due in part to the aging and retiring workforce. With less competition, you have a better chance of securing a great opportunity. Also, unlike jobs in information technology, customer service, and other sectors which can be outsourced, a career in the skilled trades requires workers to be on site.
Satisfaction of Hands-On Work. Trade professionals who work with their hands all day have less opportunity for boredom and disengagement. If you hate the thought of spending eight hours a day on the computer, building, creating, and installing things might be more fulfilling.
What Education is Needed to Become a Craft Laborer?
Choosing a trade can save you thousands because you don’t usually have to commit to years and years of college education for a degree. This prevents you from taking out large student loans, which can saddle you with thousands in debt. Training programs for skilled trades vary from six months to two years. However, for semi-skilled or self-taught workers free training is available.
ARC Services has a state-of-the-art weld training center in Rock Hill, South Carolina. We offer tuition-free, first-hand training in gas metal arc welding, shielded metal arc welding, gas tungsten arc welding, and others. The program is designed to prepare students to apply their skills in a real-world environment. We simulate what it is like to work in confined spaces and other situations welders encounter when working at an industrial plant and on a construction site. Students learn safe work practices and behaviors to protect themselves and others from injury.
How Do I Know if the Trades are for Me?
It is clear that the skilled trades offer plenty of well-paying opportunities, job security, flexibility, and other benefits for women and men. Take a moment to think about your interests, hobbies, and talents. If you enjoy working with your hands, you might explore welding, carpentry, or painting. If you are a student, transitioning Veteran, or making a career change later in life, join our ARC Energy Craft Community by clicking on the link below.
Learn more about our positions and fill out our contact form here.