Have you ever thought about a career in the trades? It’s one of those paths that offers so much: a solid future, job security, and the chance to build something with your own hands. The trades are making a big comeback, and more people are seeing the long-term benefits of skilled labor. If you’re still figuring out what career might be right for you, here’s why the trades could be the perfect fit.

Hands-On Job Security

Think about it … the trades are everywhere. From plumbing to electrical work, construction, and HVAC, these essential services keep our homes and businesses running. And the best part? Skilled tradespeople are always in demand. As the current workforce ages, the need for people who can fix, build, and maintain these essential systems is growing fast.

What’s even better is that unlike many white-collar jobs that can be automated or outsourced, the hands-on nature of trade work isn’t going anywhere. Replacing the expertise of an HVAC technician diagnosing a system issue, an electrician ensuring a home is safely wired, or a plumber repairing a critical water leak is imperative. The work is tangible, rewarding, and critical to keeping communities running smoothly.

Start Your Career Sooner

Who says you need a four-year degree to build a successful future? The trades offer a direct route into the workforce with focused training programs and on-the-job learning opportunities. Forget about piling up student debt when you can start earning a paycheck while mastering a valuable skill. Many apprenticeship programs allow you to earn while you learn, setting you up for financial success much earlier than traditional academic routes.

At Lee Company, we’re all about investing in our people, providing mentorship and training programs that allow our team members to gain certifications and real-world experience while working. You’ll be building a future and gaining experience without the burden of student loans.

Career Growth and Advancement

One of the best things about working in the trades? There’s room to grow. This isn’t a career where you’ll be stuck in one place. You can continue to learn, earn certifications, specialize in high-demand skills, and take on leadership roles. Whether you’re looking to become a subject matter expert in your field or take the path toward management, the opportunities are endless.

We’ve seen firsthand how dedication pays off. Many of our leaders started as technicians, growing into supervisory and management roles. The trades are constantly evolving with new technologies, which keeps the work exciting and always a little bit challenging. If you enjoy learning new things, the trades will never be boring.

A Variety of Specialties

If you’re someone who likes variety, you’ll love the trades. Whether you prefer working with your hands, solving technical problems, or managing large-scale projects, there’s a specialty that fits your interests. Some key trade careers include:

• HVAC Technician – Installs, maintains, and repairs heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems.
• Electrician – Installs, maintains, and repairs electrical systems in homes, businesses, and factories.
• Plumber – Installs and repairs plumbing systems, ensuring safe and reliable water access.
• Construction Manager – Oversees the planning, execution, and completion of construction projects.
• Machinist – Operates machinery to shape and manufacture metal parts with precision.

A Career with Purpose

A career in the trades isn’t just about a paycheck. It’s about seeing the results of your hard work and knowing you’re making a difference. Every time you fix an HVAC system during a summer heatwave or wire a new home, you’re leaving a lasting impact. It’s a career with purpose, and the satisfaction that comes with completing something tangible is hard to beat.

As our CEO Richard Perko puts it, “While every day you may be building projects or maintaining buildings, you are also building valuable skills and experience that will allow you to create the right career path for you.”

We’re proud to support skilled trades professionals and offer the tools and training they need to succeed. If you’re ready to take the first step toward a rewarding career, the trades might be the perfect path for you.