Career group

Skilled Trades

Earn while you learn: apprenticeships, trade school and state licensing for electricians, plumbers and HVAC techs.

ElectricianTime: 4–5 years (apprenticeship to journeyman)Median pay: $63,190 per year ($30.38 per hour)High school diploma or GED, with at least one year of algebraHow to become an electrician →HVAC TechnicianTime: 6 months–2 years of training; 3–5 years for an apprenticeshipMedian pay: $61,010 per year ($29.33 per hour)High school diploma or GEDHow to become an hvac technician →PlumberTime: 4–5 years (apprenticeship to journeyman)Median pay: $63,800 per year ($30.67 per hour)High school diploma or GEDHow to become a plumber →

Compare at a glance

CareerTimeTypical costMedian pay
Electrician4–5 years (apprenticeship to journeyman)$500–$5,000 (more if you choose trade school first)$63,190 per year
HVAC Technician6 months–2 years of training; 3–5 years for an apprenticeship$0–$15,000+$61,010 per year
Plumber4–5 years (apprenticeship to journeyman)$500–$5,000 (more if you choose trade school first)$63,800 per year