What are the best high-paying trades for women with strong job security?
High-paying trades with strong long-term demand include electrician, plumber, welder, HVAC technician, carpenter, heavy equipment operator, auto mechanic, industrial maintenance technician, sheet metal worker, and solar panel installer. These roles typically offer “earn while you learn” paths through apprenticeships, short certification programs, or community college training—often with clear promotion ladders, union options, and opportunities for self-employment.
Women’s participation in the skilled trades is at an all-time high, with over 314,000 women working in the industry - a nearly 30% increase in just five years.
These numbers show that more women are recognizing the benefits of trade careers: strong wages, job stability, and fulfilling hands-on work.
If you’re looking for a high-paying job without drowning in student debt, the trades are worth exploring.
Let’s dive into 7 of the best options for women!
1. Electrician
Why It’s Great
- Median salary: $61,590+ per year
- Job growth: Expected to increase by 11% through 2033
- Training: Apprenticeships (earn while you learn) or trade school
How to Get Started
- Look for an apprenticeship with a local electrical contractor.
- Consider enrolling in a trade school for classroom-based training.
Pro Tip: Join organizations like NAWIC (National Association of Women in Construction) to network with women in the industry and gain mentorship.
2. Welder
Why It’s Great
- Median salary: $49,561 per year
- High demand: Essential in construction, automotive, and manufacturing
- No college degree required
How to Get Started
- Take a short certification course (often 6 months or less).
- Gain hands-on experience through internships or entry-level jobs.
Pro Tip: If you love travel, consider pipeline welding - it pays exceptionally well, often exceeding $100,000 per year.
Also Read: What is the job description of a welder?
3. Plumber
Why It’s Great
- Median salary: $61,107 per year
- Essential service = job security
- Often self-employed = flexibility
How to Get Started
- Apply for an apprenticeship (paid on-the-job training).
- Get licensed after completing training (varies by state).
Also Read: How to make a resume for maintenance jobs?
4. HVAC Technician (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning)
Why It’s Great
- Median salary: $51,000+ per year
- Job growth: 9% expected through 2033
- Indoor work = year-round employment
How to Get Started
- Enroll in a certification program (typically 6 months to 2 years).
- Get EPA-certified to handle refrigerants (required for many jobs).
5. Carpenter
Why It’s Great
- Median salary: $64,171 per year
- Job growth: Very stable, especially for home renovations
- Creative and hands-on work
How to Get Started
- Take beginner woodworking or carpentry courses.
- Join an apprenticeship or start with handyman jobs.
Also Read: What is the job description of a carpenter?
6. Heavy Equipment Operator
Why It’s Great
- Median salary: $54,784 per year
- Thriving in industries like construction and logistics
- Quick certification programs available
How to Get Started
- Get certified through an accredited training program.
- Apply for entry-level positions to gain experience.
7. Auto Mechanic
Why It’s Great
- Median salary: $71,337 per year
- Huge demand in personal vehicles, trucking, and industrial machinery
- Opportunities for self-employment
How to Get Started:
- Consider an automotive technology certification (6-12 months).
- Gain hands-on experience at a repair shop.
Also Read: How to write a resume for mechanic jobs?
8. Industrial Maintenance Technician
Why It’s Great
- Median salary: $60,000+ per year
- High demand across manufacturing, food processing, and logistics
- Mix of mechanical, electrical, and problem-solving work
How to Get Started
- Complete a technical certificate or associate program in industrial maintenance.
- Start in an entry-level maintenance role to build hands-on experience.
Pro Tip: This role rewards versatility. Technicians who can handle both mechanical repairs and basic electrical systems often earn higher pay and faster promotions.
9. Sheet Metal Worker
Why It’s Great
- Median salary: $58,000+ per year
- Essential in HVAC, construction, and industrial projects
- Strong union presence and benefits in many states
How to Get Started
- Apply for a union or non-union apprenticeship program.
- Learn fabrication, installation, and blueprint reading on the job.
Pro Tip: Precision skills matter here. Strong math, measurement, and layout skills can set you apart quickly.
10. Solar Panel Installer
Why It’s Great
- Median salary: $55,000+ per year
- Fast-growing field driven by clean energy adoption
- Team-based work with strong safety standards and training
How to Get Started
- Complete a short solar installation or electrical fundamentals course.
- Apply for entry-level roles with residential or commercial solar companies.
Pro Tip: Experience in electrical work or roofing can accelerate growth into higher-paying lead installer or system designer roles.
Breaking Into the Trades: Next Steps
Now that you know which trades offer great pay and security, it’s time to take action. Here’s how you can smoothly transition into a skilled trade career:
- Find a Training Program - Many trade schools, vocational programs, and community colleges offer specialized training in fields like welding, HVAC, and electrical work. Look for programs that offer hands-on learning, as this is essential for developing real-world skills. Some even have financial aid or scholarships specifically for women entering the trades.
- Seek Apprenticeships - Apprenticeships allow you to earn while you learn, providing on-the-job experience under the guidance of seasoned professionals. They typically last a few years, but by the time you finish, you'll have industry-recognized credentials and valuable work experience. Organizations like Apprenticeship.gov can help you find opportunities in your area.
- Get Certified - Some trades require licensing or specialized certifications, such as an EPA certification for HVAC technicians or a journeyman license for electricians and plumbers. Be sure to check your state’s specific requirements so you can meet the necessary qualifications before applying for jobs.
- Build a Strong Resume and Online Presence - Employers in the trades still expect well-prepared applications. Craft a resume that highlights any relevant experience, certifications, and transferable skills like problem-solving and mechanical aptitude. Creating a strong LinkedIn profile and networking with industry professionals can also help you land job opportunities faster.
- Explore Job Openings and Start Applying - Once you've gained some training or experience, start looking for job openings with contractors, unions, or even government projects. Consider reaching out to companies that offer mentorship programs for women in the trades.
The skilled trades industry is full of opportunities, and with the right approach, you can step into a high-paying, stable career that fits your strengths and interests.
Land Your First Trade Job with Hiration
The skilled trades offer more than just a paycheck - they offer purpose, stability, and the chance to build something tangible every day.
Whether you're drawn to carpentry, welding, HVAC, or any other path, taking that first step can lead to a rewarding career.
As you prepare to apply, having a well-crafted resume, cover letter, and interview prep can make all the difference.
Hiration supports job seekers in the trades with resources tailored to your goals - helping you stand out and move forward with confidence.
Your next chapter starts with a single step, and you're more ready than you think!
Trades for Women — FAQs
Which trade is best for women who want job security?
Roles tied to essential services and ongoing demand typically offer the strongest security—especially electrician, plumber, HVAC technician, and industrial maintenance technician.
Which trades can you enter fastest without a college degree?
Welding, HVAC, solar installation, and auto mechanic often have shorter certification pathways. Many people start with a 6–12 month program and build experience quickly on the job.
Apprenticeships can take longer, but you get paid while you train.
What are the highest-paying skilled trades for women?
Pay varies by region and specialization, but higher-earning tracks commonly include electrician, plumber, specialized welding (e.g., pipeline), auto/diesel mechanic, industrial maintenance, and union sheet metal work.
Do I need an apprenticeship for the trades?
Not always. Some fields offer faster entry through certificates (HVAC, welding, solar). Others—like electrical and plumbing—often use apprenticeships as the primary path because licensing and hands-on training requirements are stricter.
What certifications should I prioritize first?
Start with the credential that unlocks employability: EPA certification for HVAC (where required), state licensing tracks for electrical/plumbing, welding certifications for the processes you’ll use, and any safety certifications your local employers value.
Which trade is best if I want flexibility or self-employment?
Plumbing, electrical, HVAC, and auto repair can lead to independent work or running a small business once you gain experience and licensing.
What trade is best if I prefer indoor work?
HVAC often provides year-round indoor work, and industrial maintenance commonly involves controlled environments like plants, warehouses, or production facilities (depending on site).
How do I choose the right trade for me?
Use three filters: (1) your comfort with physical work and environments (indoor/outdoor/heights), (2) how much you enjoy hands-on troubleshooting vs building, and (3) your preferred lifestyle (travel, overtime, union track, or self-employment).
How can I get hired with little to no experience?
Start with an entry-level helper role or apprenticeship, complete a short certificate if needed, and build a simple “proof of skill” portfolio: training certificates, tool familiarity, safety knowledge, and a few hands-on projects (even from class). Emphasize reliability, punctuality, and coachability.
What should a trades resume highlight?
Lead with certifications, hands-on training, tools/equipment you’ve used, safety knowledge, and measurable outcomes (hours trained, projects completed, systems installed/repaired). Add transferable strengths like problem-solving, customer communication, and teamwork.
