The Challenges of Creating a Successful Skilled Trades Career

If you're thinking about a career in the skilled trades—whether you're fresh out of high school or looking to switch gears after years in another field—you’re probably asking yourself a few key questions:

• How do I get started?
• Can I afford the training?
• Will I earn enough while I’m learning?
• What does long-term success really look like in this field?

These are valid concerns. A career in the trades can be incredibly rewarding, but like any career path, it comes with its own set of challenges. At UA Local 486, we don’t just acknowledge those challenges—we actively help our apprentices overcome them.

Let’s take a look at the common roadblocks people face when entering the trades—and how UA Local 486 sets you up for success from day one.

The Real Challenges of Starting a Skilled Trades Career

Choosing a career in the trades is a smart move, but it’s not always an easy one. While the long-term rewards can be great, the path to get there can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re unsure where to start. From financial roadblocks to a lack of guidance, many people give up before they ever get the chance to build a stable, successful career. Let’s break down some of the biggest challenges that hold people back—and how to overcome them.

1. Expensive Upfront Training Costs

One of the biggest barriers to entry is the cost of training. Trade schools and private programs can charge thousands of dollars for tuition, tools, and certification fees. And for someone just starting out or making a career change, that cost can be a deal-breaker.

2. Low Wages While Learning

Before reaching journey-level status, many workers in the trades find themselves earning low wages—especially if they’re not in a structured apprenticeship. That can make it hard to cover everyday expenses, let alone save for the future.

3. Uncertainty About Career Pathways

There are a lot of different paths in the trades—plumbing, HVAC, steamfitting, welding, and more—but without proper guidance, it’s easy to feel lost. Some people bounce around from job to job without ever getting the skills or credentials they need to grow.

4. Lack of Job Security or Benefits

Working non-union often may mean no health insurance, no retirement plan, and no long-term stability. That might be fine in the short term, but it doesn’t offer the security most people want for themselves and their families.

These reasons often keep individuals, especially those who already have an established career, from pursuing a career in the trades. However, there are ways to overcome these challenges. One way is by joining a skilled trades apprenticeship school.

How Apprenticeship Programs Help You Build a Strong Future

Apprenticeship programs are designed to provide a path into the skilled trades industry that avoids some of the pitfalls of college, trade schools, or trying to bootstrap a career. They help individuals learn the knowledge and obtain the skills necessary to confidently step into the industry without the financial burden.

At UA Local 486, we have a five-year apprenticeship program that allows you to earn while you learn and provides a high likelihood of obtaining a job once you finish. Here is how our and other apprenticeship programs can help people overcome the challenges and create a successful career in the trades. 

No High Tuition Costs

Unlike colleges or trade schools, apprenticeship programs don’t charge high tuitions that require individuals to take out student loans. However, there still will be some costs associated with the program. For example, at the UA Local 486, you will need to pay for your books, and once placed on a job site, you will be required to pay your monthly dues.  

Earn While You Learn

Apprentices are paid to work on real job sites with experienced union members. By joining an apprenticeship program, you’ll earn a fair, increasing wage while you gain hands-on experience and attend weekly training classes. Here at the 486, our apprentices start at $60,216+ in wages and benefits, while 5th-year apprentices can earn up to $133,000.

Structured, High-Quality Education

Apprenticeship programs aren’t just about working hard—they’re about learning the right way. During your time as an apprentice, you'll receive classroom instruction from experienced professionals, get hands-on lab time, and earn industry-recognized certifications that employers respect.

Full Benefits

Even as an apprentice, you’ll receive health insurance, dental and vision coverage, and contributions toward your retirement. That’s a huge advantage over working for a non-union contractor or trying to freelance your way up.

Job Security and Career Growth

With UA Local 486, you’re not just getting a job—you’re joining a brotherhood and sisterhood with strong roots and a clear path forward. Once you complete your apprenticeship, you’ll become a journey-level craftsperson with the opportunity to continue learning, lead projects, and even move into training or leadership roles. Many of our graduates have job offers upon graduation.

Finding a Job or Starting a Business Isn’t Always Easy After Training

Completing a training program is a big achievement, but it doesn’t always guarantee a clear path forward. Many people finish school or a trade school only to realize that landing a job or starting their own business can be more challenging than expected.

The Job Search Can Feel Overwhelming

Even with the right skills, some new tradespeople struggle to find consistent work. They may not have the professional network to lean on, or they might not know how to stand out to employers in a competitive field. It can be frustrating to spend time and money on training, only to find yourself stuck at the starting line.

Starting a Business Comes with New Challenges

Going into business for yourself sounds exciting—and for many, it's a long-term goal—but it requires more than just technical ability. From understanding local licensing laws to learning how to manage clients, employees, and finances, running a successful trades business takes planning, patience, and support.

Like building any other successful career, there are challenges. But fortunately, there are some ways to overcome them.

How to Overcome These Challenges

• Start building your network early. Whether it’s through instructors, classmates, or job sites, making connections in the industry can open doors you didn’t expect.
   
• Look for structured programs with job placement support. Some training paths offer direct access to employers or connect you with apprenticeships that lead to steady work.
   
• Get real-world experience while you learn. The more hands-on time you have under your belt, the easier it will be to show employers (or clients) you’re ready.
   
• Keep learning beyond the tools. Skills like communication, time management, and leadership can make a huge difference on job sites—and they’re critical if you plan to run your own business someday.
   
• Don’t be afraid to ask for guidance. Many experienced tradespeople are more than willing to share advice if you show initiative and respect.

Take the First Step

Taking your first step into anything new can be difficult, but a career in the trades is worth it! We encourage you to take the first step to getting trained and learning the skills necessary to succeed. 

If you’re located in Maryland or Delaware and want to create the best opportunity to succeed in the trades, we encourage you to apply to the UA Local 486 apprenticeship program. We train plumbers, pipefitters, HVAC-R technicians, and steamfitters—and we’re always looking for hardworking individuals who are committed to learning, growing, and succeeding.

Whether you're just out of high school or looking to start fresh in a new field, we’re here to help you build a future you can be proud of.