Skilled Trades That Pay
by Lisa Peri & Jeff Peri
the U.S. will need over four times more automotive technicians than those expected to graduate in the next five years. 7 If automobiles are your passion, aside from the basic training required, it is imperative to learn electrical diagnosis and repair for the ever growing technology built into cars. And, to move up the ladder and increase your salary, it is best to acquire as many ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) certifications as possible. BOAT MECHANIC AND MARINE TECHNICIAN $35K-$74K annually The projected marine mechanic job growth rate is 5% from 2018-2028.10 Even better, marine mechanic salaries have increased 12% over the last 5 years with the average annual pay at $40,580. 11 Much like automotive mechanics, motorboat mechanics handle repair and maintenance of boats which requires learning the mechanical and electrical workings of marine vessels. The other difference is that the career pool for marine technicians is much smaller than the prevalence of jobs of the automotive industry. Good news! Annapolis is a huge hub for boats, so if you like the water and are excited by boats this could be the career for you. Take some courses, get some certifications, top it off with an apprenticeship, and you’re on your way to ruling the seas!
FOR MANY, the cost of a college education has outpaced the financial success one could expect with a four-year degree. In 2022, The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported that many skilled trades paid significantly more than many bachelor's degree careers. As tuition costs continue to rise, trades, skills, and apprenticeships are becoming increasingly appealing. “With the push to have a college degree from the 1980s through today, the current pool of tradespeople is getting smaller and smaller,” said Gerry Mathews, owner of AP Mathews Heating and Air Conditioning . “Tradespeople are starting to retire and the demand to replace the workforce is great.” In response to the growing popularity and need of skilled workers, we’ve compiled a list of possible career paths with their average pay rates for those seeking an alternative to a traditional four-year degree career path.
AUTO MECHANIC $36K-$81K annually
The rapidly evolving and increasingly sophisticated automotive technology continues to increase the demand for highly-skilled technicians. Projections show
62 | THE MOTHERLODE
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