The highest-paid major trade that needs no degree — safety-critical, licensed, and hard to outsource. Top 10% >$158K.
Gold = credential gate. Each turn: more skill → more pay → the next step.
1
High-school diploma
No degree needed; mechanical aptitude.
◆ GMA mentor — find an apprenticeship
2
Paid apprenticeship (4 yr)
A 4-year paid apprenticeship (NEIEP/union).
3
Get licensed
Licensure in most states.
4
Install & repair · $110K
The highest-paid no-degree trade; top 10% >$158K.
5
Specialize or lead crews
Modernization/adjuster specialties or crew lead.
The flywheel: a paid apprenticeship + licensure lifts your rate step by step, and the safety-critical, licensed nature keeps the work local and well-paid for life.
