earn while you learn

no prior trade experience required. you need a high school diploma or GED, be at least 18 years old, and pass a basic math aptitude test for most programs. some trades (electrical) require one year of algebra.

it depends on the trade and your local area, but most apprentices start at 40–50% of journeyman scale — typically $18–$28/hr. wages step up every 6–12 months. by the final year you're earning 90% of journeyman scale, often $30–$45/hr.

no tuition for on-the-job training hours. classroom instruction is usually free or heavily subsidized. some programs charge a small annual fee ($50–$200) for materials — nothing like college.

typically 3–5 years depending on the trade: welding can be 2–3 years, carpentry 3–4 years, electrical and plumbing 4–5 years. you work full-time and attend related technical instruction a few hours per week.

union programs typically offer better benefits, higher wages, and more job security — especially in commercial and industrial work. open-shop programs offer more flexibility and are often stronger in residential markets. both lead to the same DOL journeyman credential.

many programs only open 1–2x per year. sign up for our alerts above and we'll notify you as soon as the window opens. in the meantime, contact your local union hall or contractor association directly — they often maintain waitlists.

trades are among the most AI-resistant careers. physical skilled labor — running conduit, welding pipe, setting forms — can't be done by software. our AI risk scores rate electricians, plumbers, and carpenters in the lowest-risk tier. while 38% of early-career workers are reconsidering their plans because of AI, the trades are seeing growing demand and rising wages.

that's what pre-apprenticeship programs are for. they're typically 6–16 weeks, free or low-cost, and cover GED prep, basic math, tool safety, and sometimes hands-on training. many have direct pipelines into registered apprenticeships. we have 670+ pre-apprenticeship programs in our schools database.

three big drivers: the infrastructure investment and jobs act ($1.2T in federal spending), the inflation reduction act (clean energy buildout), and an aging workforce — 40% of tradespeople are over 50. the result: more work than workers, wages rising 4–6% annually, and programs struggling to fill seats.

yes. there's no upper age limit and no penalty for having a degree. many apprentices are career changers in their mid-20s to 30s. a degree can actually help — some programs give credit for relevant coursework, and the analytical skills transfer well.

try scout — it helps you explore trades based on your interests, physical preferences, and income goals. you can also browse all careers with AI risk scores, salary data, and growth projections to compare options side by side.