One of the biggest myths about the trades is that there’s only one way in. In reality, there are multiple paths to learning a trade, and all of them—when taken seriously—can lead to strong, stable, and sometimes very high incomes.
Whether you prefer structured education or hands-on learning from day one, the trades offer flexibility that few careers can match.
Let’s break down the main ways people get trained—and what the long-term earning potential really looks like.
- Union Apprenticeships: Earn While You Learn
Union apprenticeships are one of the most established paths into the trades.
How it works:
You apply through a union hall
Receive paid, on-the-job training
Attend classroom instruction alongside work
Wages increase as you gain experience
Benefits often include health insurance and retirement plans
Best for:
People who want structure, long-term job security, and clearly defined wage progression.
Many union apprentices start earning immediately and finish their program with little to no debt.
- Trade Schools: Faster Entry with Focused Training
Trade schools offer a more classroom-focused approach but still emphasize hands-on skills.
How it works:
Programs often last 6–24 months
Focused training on a specific trade (plumbing, HVAC, electrical, welding, etc.)
Often paired with job placement assistance
Best for:
People who want a faster, more guided start and prefer learning fundamentals before hitting job sites full-time.
Trade school costs vary, but they are usually far less expensive than a four-year degree.
- Community Colleges: Blending Trades and Academics
Some community colleges offer trade programs that combine technical skills with broader education.
How it works:
Certificates or associate degrees
More classroom time than apprenticeships
Often includes licensing preparation
Best for:
Those who want formal credentials or may later move into management, inspection, or teaching roles.
- The Most Overlooked Option: Apply for a Job and Learn Directly
This is the path many people don’t realize is still very common.
How it works:
Apply directly to a plumbing, electrical, HVAC, or construction company
Start as a helper or laborer
Learn on the job from experienced tradespeople
Gain hours toward licensing over time
Best for:
People who want to save money, avoid tuition, and learn by doing.
For motivated workers, this can be the least expensive and most practical path—especially in high-demand trades.
The Big Question: How Much Can a Plumber Actually Make?
Let’s talk real numbers.
💧 Master Plumber with ~10 Years of Experience
A master plumber working for someone else typically earns:
$70,000 to $100,000+ per year
Higher in major cities, union positions, or specialized fields
Overtime, emergency calls, and certifications can push earnings higher
This income is often paired with strong benefits, steady demand, and job security.
🛠️ Plumber Running Their Own Business
This is where income potential changes dramatically.
A plumber who owns and operates their own business can earn:
$100,000 to $200,000+ per year for a well-run solo operation
$250,000 to $500,000+ annually for businesses with employees, service contracts, or commercial work
Income depends on:
Location
Type of work (residential vs commercial)
Pricing, scheduling, and reputation
Business skills—not just technical skill
Many successful plumbing business owners earn more than traditional white-collar professionals, without carrying student loan debt.
Different Paths, Same Destination
The key takeaway is this:
There is no single “right” way into the trades.
Union apprenticeships provide structure and security
Trade schools offer focused, accelerated learning
Colleges add credentials and flexibility
Direct job entry saves money and builds experience immediately
What matters most is showing up, learning the craft, and sticking with it.
The trades reward skill, reliability, and experience—and over time, those rewards can turn into six-figure incomes and business ownership opportunities.
For people willing to work with their hands and think long-term, the trades remain one of the strongest career paths available today.
