Skilled trades are in high demand, and 2025 brings even more opportunities for specialized roles. If you’re just getting into the industry or looking for a change, now is a great time to build your skills. Let’s take a look at which trades are on the rise and how you can take advantage of these growing fields.
Plumber
Plumbers are always in demand, and there are plenty of opportunities to specialize as you climb the career ladder. You’ll need to attend a trade school or vocational training and then complete an internship. After that, you can get your journeyman license to work independently and eventually rise through the ranks to become a master plumber.
Electrician
Learning the basics takes just a few months of training, generally at a trade school. But becoming an electrician means that there’s always something new to learn. After training, you’ll go through an apprenticeship program before earning your license (or certificate, depending on your state). Now is an especially good time to become an electrician if you’re interested in clean energy, as jobs in solar and wind power are predicted to grow exponentially over the next several years.
Elevator Mechanic
Elevator mechanics are largely recession-proof, since high-rises and skyscrapers can’t function without working elevators. This is a job that you can learn through apprenticeship and hands-on experience, since there are no specific vocational training programs for it in the United States. Consequently, it may take a little while to find the right opportunity. But once you do, the sky is literally the limit.
HVAC Technician
HVAC stands for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning—in other words, the things that make living and working spaces comfortable all year long. You can earn a certification in less than a year, although some people choose to get a two-year associate degree instead. You’ll then need to complete an internship and obtain a license in your state. As you gain experience, you can take additional certification tests, which could lead to higher pay.
Ready for your next role?
Cardinal Staffing has been matching candidates across Ohio and Michigan with just the right light industrial, administrative, and professional positions for nearly 30 years. With deep roots in these areas, we’re experts on the local job markets. If you’re ready to take the next steps in your career, contact us to learn more or start searching for your next position today!
