Australia's construction industry continues to grow with major infrastructure projects underway. However, the shortage of skilled workers poses a significant challenge to the completion of these projects. The demand for skilled workers has never been greater and if you are interested in becoming a sparky, a chippie, a brickie, a plumber, or any other trades profession, here are some reasons as to why you should kickstart your career in a trade-based industry:
1. High Demand
There has and always will be a constant demand for skilled tradies. With the ongoing urgent need for new construction, maintenance, and repair, trades people are indispensable. Unlike many jobs that can be outsourced or replaced by technology, trades require hands-on, skilled labour that can't be automated.
2. Excellent Earning Potential
Many trades offer excellent earning potential. Skilled tradespeople often earn a good wage right out of training, and with the proper trade qualification, the more you learn, the more skills you develop, the higher you can earn. Getting a license, for a specific trade, be it a welder, electrician, etc, increases your ability to earn as well.
3. Get paid to train
Becoming a tradesperson often requires less time and financial investment. Many trades offer apprenticeship programs where you can earn while you learn, this allows you to gain practical experience – a win, win!
4. Hands-On and Rewarding Work
For those who enjoy working with their hands and seeing tangible results from their efforts, a career in the trades can be incredibly satisfying. Tradies often get to see the immediate impact of their work, whether it's fixing a complex electrical problem, crafting a beautiful piece of furniture, or ensuring a building is safe and functional.
5. Independence and Flexibility
Many tradespeople enjoy a high degree of independence in their work. Whether you’re working for a company or running your own business, the nature of the job often allows for flexibility in terms of hours and projects. This can lead to a better work-life balance and the ability to take on projects that genuinely interest you.
6. Job Satisfaction & Growth
You’ll have a real sense of satisfaction completing projects and see the impact your work has on the community. As you gain experience, you can take on more complex projects, learn new skills, and even move into supervisory or management roles.
Choosing to work in trades is not just a career choice; it's a decision to be a part of a profession that is vital, respected, and rewarding.
“I’ve personally witnessed some great success stories in the trade sector, it's truly an industry that individuals can progress very quickly if they have the right attitude and desire to learn. It’s a space where there are incredible opportunities and offers a huge variety in day-to-day duties. It’s not unheard of for apprentices that have just recently qualified to land 6 figure salaries, especially in the industrial maintenance and mining sectors.
What I love most about construction companies is that they will always look to promote within – and often we see apprentices that have worked their way right through to project and construction managers all while staying with the same company”.
If you’re looking for a stable, fulfilling, and lucrative career path, consider the trades—you might just find that it’s the perfect fit for you.
