working in the trades

An electrician working

Are Electricians Blue Collar?

Electricians are considered blue-collar workers because their daily tasks involve physical manual labor. Electricians can be classified as skilled labor since most professionals learn the necessary skills for the job through training programs and apprenticeships.

Why are Electricians Considered Blue-Collar?

Electricians are classified as blue-collar workers because their work involves manual labor in out-of-office settings such as residences, restaurants, and factories. Read More »

An aircraft mechanic fixing an airplane

17 Blue Collar Job Examples

A blue-collar job generally involves physical labor or skilled trades. Some blue collar job examples include aircraft mechanics, auto mechanics, boilermakers, carpenters, concrete finishers, electricians, elevator installers and repairers, and HVAC mechanics and installers. These jobs often require specialized knowledge and skills.

1. Aircraft Mechanics

An aircraft mechanic fixing an airplane

Average Salary: $73,350 Read More »

A skilled tradesman working on a ladder

The Skilled Tradesmen Shortage: Why It’s Happening and How We Can Fix It

What happens when the people we rely on the most are no longer regularly available? The skilled tradesmen shortage. Across industries like construction, plumbing, electrical work, welding, and HVAC, there just aren’t enough men and women to keep up with demand. Millions of jobs are sitting unfilled, while older workers are retiring at record rates. Meanwhile, younger generations aren’t stepping in to replace them fast enough.

This growing gap isn’t just bad for the workers and businesses involved—it’s affecting the entire economy. Housing costs are rising, infrastructure projects are delayed, and companies are struggling to keep up with demand. The worst part? These are high-paying, stable careers that don’t require massive student loan debt. Yet, for some reason, they’re not attracting new talent like other careers. Read More »

Person holding hard hat wondering how to get into construction jobs

How to Get Into Construction – A Reliable Career Path Without College

If you're seeking a practical, reliable career without taking the traditional route of attending college, learning how to get into construction might be the perfect solution. Construction offers steady work, strong earning potential, and opportunities for growth—without requiring a degree.

This guide will show you exactly how to break into the field, even with no experience, and build a successful career. Read More »

An aircraft mechanic working in his hands-on career

The Top 10 Hands-On Careers That Are Satisfying and Well-Paying

Hands-on careers are a perfect fit for people who enjoy practical work, solving real-world problems, and seeing the direct results of their efforts. If the idea of sitting through years of expensive college classes doesn’t appeal to you, or you’d rather build something with your hands than work behind a desk, these careers offer an exciting alternative. Many hands-on professions don’t require a four-year degree but still provide excellent pay, job security, and personal fulfillment.

From building homes to repairing vehicles or keeping critical systems running, hands-on careers are in high demand and often come with the added bonus of learning on the job. Read More »

An aerial view of a wind turbine installation, a new popular green collar job

What Are Green Collar Jobs?

Have you been hearing about “green collar jobs” lately? They represent a growing sector within the global workforce, focusing on environmental sustainability and renewable energy. Encompassing a wide range of roles, they directly contribute to the development and maintenance of environmentally friendly infrastructure and practices.

As the world’s focus towards more sustainable energy sources and practices grows, the demand for green collar jobs is surging, offering numerous opportunities for workers, particularly those with a blue-collar background or those looking to get into the lucrative trades. Read More »

Steps to Help You in Choosing a Career Path

“What do you want to do for the rest of your life?” It’s a scary question, isn’t it? Fortunately, you’ll never have to answer it! Choosing a career path is just one step towards the opportunities and life that you’ll eventually experience. You can always switch gears when you need to – but it’s still important to take that first step.

If you’re having trouble figuring out how to make the first decision toward choosing a career path, read on to learn some steps you can take to remove some of the guesswork from the equation. Read More »

Importance of Being a Mentor for Success

Leadership in the Blue-Collar World: The Importance of Being a Mentor

One person’s success is rarely the result of just their work alone. It’s the culmination of experiences and learning from everyone in their lifetime. Parents, teachers and peers are often credited with helping guide others towards achievement. However, being a mentor is another way that anyone, including those in the blue-collar world, can help shape their own path towards accomplishing their dreams. Read More »

An American flag with a variety of tools used by blue collar workers

Why Blue Collar Jobs are Essential in America

Blue collar jobs are often the unsung heroes of America's workforce. These roles are critical not only for building and maintaining the physical infrastructure of our country but also for ensuring the smooth operation of essential services. From construction workers to electricians, blue collar workers form the backbone of the economy, contributing to national strength, stability, and prosperity. This article explores the importance of blue collar jobs in America, highlighting their necessity for a functional society and the unique fulfillment they provide to those who pursue these careers.

Blue Collar Jobs: Building a Strong Nation

Blue collar jobs are foundational to the strength and resilience of America. They encompass a wide range of essential services that keep the country running smoothly and efficiently. Read More »

Two students working on a computer to choose a trade job

Navigating Your Future: A Guide to Choosing a Trade Career

In recent years, there's been a significant shift in the career landscape, with an increasing number of individuals gravitating towards trade careers. This surge in interest is not just a fleeting trend but a reflection of the evolving job market and the reevaluation of traditional career paths. Understanding the importance of making an informed decision when it comes to your career is crucial. This guide aims to provide you with a comprehensive overview of choosing a trade career, touching on everything from the rising appeal of trade jobs to essential resources that can aid in your decision-making process.

The Rise of Trade Jobs

So, what's behind the growing interest in trade careers? Several factors are at play here. Firstly, the escalating cost of traditional college education is prompting many to explore more economically viable alternatives. Secondly, the job market demands are changing; there's a growing need for skilled tradespeople in various industries. Additionally, an aging workforce in certain trades is creating opportunities for the next generation of workers. Let's delve deeper into why trade careers are becoming a go-to option for many. Read More »