Top Trades in Demand for 2022

There’s a lot that people are thinking about when one year is ending and a new one is approaching. One thing that might be on the minds of some is what they want to be doing for work. Taking the next step to an exciting career might mean going back to school, though this doesn’t have to mean enrolling in a traditional university.

With 2023 around the corner, a trade school is a great option to consider for those looking to further their education who are interested in a specific field of work. Trade schools offer hands-on training through specialized programs and allow people to graduate between eight months to two years, which is less time than a typical college.

There are a number of trade programs out there to choose from that can fit a range of interests, and a need to fill positions in the future. However, some skilled trade jobs are in demand more than others. Keep reading to discover some of the trades in demand for the upcoming year.

More Career Openings as Baby Boomers Retire

Baby Boomers, or people defined as being born between the years of 1946 to 1964, are reaching retirement age more and more. As this happens, it leaves gaps in employment that need to be filled. Many positions are opening in fields related to skilled trades.

A good majority of this generation are giving up their vocational careers that required specific training to obtain. This means there’s an opportunity for those interested in these industries to step in and take their place while the demand is high.

So, you may be thinking "What trades jobs are in demand?", according to a report by Adecco, it’s projected that there are going to be 31 million vacant positions by 2020 based on Baby Boomer retirement estimations, with 74% of firms predicting a shortfall of qualified skilled trade workers.

Some positions that Baby Boomers occupy a large portion of include:

• Electricians
• Machinists
• Welders
• Construction Occupations
• Mechanical Engineers
• Heating and Cooling
• Plumbers
• Civil Engineers
• Industrial Mechanics

Those looking for a career change who have the right qualifications should be able to fill some of these positions. The need for employees in vocational roles is projected to increase through the end of 2020 and into 2021.

Specific Trade Jobs in High Demand

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) compiles job outlooks and data for various positions. There are several trades in high demand that are projected to remain there steadily over the course of the next decade.

According to Indeed, there are several career opportunities out there associated with these specific trades, including:

• Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)
• Welder
• Diesel Technician
• Aircraft Mechanic
• HVAC Technician
• Home Inspector
• Plumber
• Electrician
• Respiratory Therapist
• Construction Manager
• Dental Hygienist
• Legal Assistant

Skilled Trades in Demand for the Transportation Industry

One industry that is likely to remain important over the years and offer additional job opportunities is the transportation industry. Many soon-retiring baby boomers hold positions within this field – and there is always a need for workers with the skills required to work on transportation equipment and machinery.

With an increasing number of job openings, those interested in the industry should be encouraged to pursue an education and take steps toward a career they’re passionate about. A trade school like Universal Technical Institute (UTI) can prepare you for a number of these roles.¹

Some potential in-demand career paths in the transportation industry include:

• Diesel technicians: Estimated average annual diesel job openings in the United States are projected to be more than 24,000.⁴³ Diesel engines are powerful, important machines that deliver power to a range of vehicles and are also used in a variety of other applications, such as generators. The Diesel Technology program at UTI can help prepare graduates to work in a range of settings, from repair shops to dealerships.
• Automotive technicians: Those training as automotive technicians can gain the skills needed to maintain and repair all kinds of vehicles. In the Automotive Technology program at UTI, industry-related experience can help prepare students for entry-level positions in as few as 51 weeks.⁷ There are more than 67,000 estimated average annual automotive job openings in the U.S.⁴¹
• Welders: The process of welding is uniting two or more parts together with heat, pressure, or a combination of the two. It’s something used in a wide variety of industries, including transportation, and there are more than 42,000 estimated average annual job openings projected for welders, cutters, solderers and brazers.⁴² Students attending the Welding Technology Training program at UTI will become familiar with several different types of welding, from gas metal arc (GMAW) to flux-cored arc welding (FCAW).

A few other great career paths that can be pursued in the transportation industry include:

• Motorcycle mechanics: Students can train at Motorcycle Mechanics Institute in just 48 weeks to become a motorcycle technician. They’ll learn everything needed to repair and maintain two- and three-wheeled vehicles. Courses in the program include everything from electrical systems to engine troubleshooting. Graduates will be prepared to work in a range of settings, from custom bike shops to brand-specific dealerships.
• Collision repair technicians: Automotive body and related repairers have the skills needed to reshape and restore vehicles. Positions will be opening to those interested in making this kind of body repair to vehicles. Created in conjunction with I-CAR, the Collision Repair and Refinish Technology (CRRT) program at UTI can provide students the repair skills they need as defined by the industry.
• Marine technicians: Those passionate about the water might consider pursuing a path as a marine technician. Students graduating from MMI’s Marine Technology program with hands-on training as a marine technician are prepared for jobs that range from boat riggers to dealership techs. Students will gain hands-on experience working on watercraft, learning how to maintain and make repairs.
• CNC (computer numerical control) machinists: Students pursuing an education in CNC machining will know how to craft different components and performance parts out of raw materials. These skills can be used in a range of different job settings. The CNC Machining Technology program at UTI can give them hands-on experience needed for an entry-level position in as little as 36 weeks.

Train for a New Job in the Skilled Trades

With many skilled trades in demand and openings across many industries projected, it’s the perfect time to consider furthering your education to put yourself on the path to success. At UTI, you can train and graduate in less than a year.

If you’re interested in finding out more, you can visit our programs page for an overview of what’s offered. You can also request more information from an Admissions Representative.