With the rising cost of college, growing demand for skilled workers, and increasing interest in hands-on careers, more people are exploring the possibility of entering the trades. But how do you know if it’s the right path for you?
At West Virginia Women Work, we’ve worked with hundreds of individuals considering this very question. If you’re “trade-curious” but unsure if you should take the leap, here are six key questions to help you decide-along with insights that could save you time, money, and energy on your career journey.
1. Do you like working with your hands?
A career in the trades almost always involves some level of physical work. Whether you’re framing a house, welding steel, operating machinery, or fixing electrical systems, hands-on tasks are part of daily life.
If you find satisfaction in building, fixing, or creating things-especially when you can see the results of your work at the end of the day-you might thrive in a skilled trade. If you dread the idea of sitting at a desk for 8 hours, even more so.
2. Are you okay with nontraditional work environments?
Trade careers rarely happen inside a climate-controlled office. You might work outside in the elements, on a shop floor, or at different locations depending on the project. For some people, that variety is a huge plus.
Ask yourself: Would I enjoy being on my feet, moving around, and working in changing environments? Or do I prefer a more structured, indoor workspace?
3. How do you feel about teamwork and communication?
Tradespeople often work in teams, especially in fields like construction or manufacturing. That means communication, reliability, and respect for others are all key. If you can be a team player-even when it’s early, cold, or raining-you’ll fit in well.
You don’t have to be outgoing, but you do need to be dependable, clear, and respectful. Soft skills matter in the trades just as much as technical ones.
4. Are you motivated to learn and grow?
Skilled trades require specialized training-and learning doesn’t stop once you get hired. Technology and safety standards change. Tools evolve. New certifications become available.
The best tradespeople are always learning. If you enjoy improving your skills and want a career where effort pays off, trades offer plenty of opportunity to grow into leadership roles or even start your own business someday.
5. Do you want to earn while you learn?
One of the biggest benefits of choosing a trade is that you don’t have to go into debt to get started. Most programs are short-term and affordable, and many offer paid apprenticeships where you earn a paycheck while gaining experience.
If student loans aren’t an option-or if you want to start making money fast-then a trade might be a smart path for your financial future.
6. Are you looking for a career that’s in demand?
Skilled trades are facing a worker shortage across West Virginia and the U.S. With many tradespeople retiring and fewer young workers entering the field, the demand is only growing.
Fields like construction, plumbing, welding, electrical work, and manufacturing are not only stable-they’re essential. That means better job security and strong wages for those who are trained and ready to work.
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. A career in the trades isn’t right for everyone-but it’s a perfect fit for many. If you’re hands-on, eager to learn, and ready to take control of your career, it might be exactly what you’ve been looking for.
Thinking about it? Let’s talk. We’re here to help you figure out your next step.
