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News and Events

What Trade School Careers Are Most in Demand?

August 14th, 2025
Student practicing welding skills at trade school

Attending trade school is a beneficial choice for many aspiring skilled workers. Several training programs are available for in-demand careers, including welders, electricians, plumbers, and heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration (HVAC&R) technicians. Pennco Tech offers multiple trade school programs in New Jersey and Pennsylvania that provide comprehensive career training. Here, we discuss the skilled workers who are in demand and the training we have available.

Welders

Welders are professionals who join metals to create tools and other products. They may work for government contractors or other businesses to create metal parts for automobiles, industrial parts, and heavy machinery. They can work on construction sites, as well. They can even open their own companies with enough focus and determination.

These skilled workers are consistently needed because welding is used in a wide range of industries. However, the current demand is being amplified by the aging workforce and the need to replace retiring welders. About 45,800 openings for welders, cutters, solderers, and brazers are projected annually, on average, through 2033, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Welders are needed to help maintain existing infrastructure and rebuild bridges, highways, and buildings. Workers are also needed in manufacturing plants and construction companies to repair infrastructure and create metal materials.

To become a welder and reap the benefits of an in-demand career, a vocational training program can provide the necessary skills and knowledge. Pennco Tech offers a Welding program at our Bristol, PA, campus to prepare graduates for entry-level positions as welders. The program consists of hands-on learning and classroom experiences, with topics covered including:

  • Safety procedures, which consist of using personal protective equipment (PPE) correctly and handling tools properly
  • Metal fabrication, which includes techniques for shaping, cutting, and assembling metal components
  • Blueprint reading, which involves learning to read and interpret technical drawings and specifications for assembling parts, tools, and materials

Electricians

Electricians are responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing electrical systems in residential, commercial, and industrial settings. The demand for electricians is increasing because of the need for new construction and maintenance of aging systems. Therefore, employment of electricians is projected to grow by 11% annually through 2033, according to BLS data and industry projections.

If you want to pursue this in-demand career, Pennco Tech offers an Electrician program that teaches essential topics for an electrician career. It is available in Bristol, PA, and at our Blackwood, NJ, campus, during the day and in the evenings. The program covers:

  • Electrical theory: This involves understanding the principles of electricity and how systems work, including conduits and wiring.
  • Wiring technique: This consists of learning to install and maintain wiring systems, as well as update infrastructure to code.
  • Troubleshooting: This requires developing skill sets to diagnose and repair electrical issues, such as outdated wiring and piping.
  • Code compliance: This includes ensuring all work meets local and national codes, including meeting blueprint plans and project requirements.

Plumbers

Plumbers are skilled tradespeople who install, repair, and maintain piping systems that carry water, gas, and waste. Pipes are essential for maintaining the infrastructure of homes, businesses, and public buildings. The demand for plumbers is expected to remain strong because of the need for new plumbing construction and maintenance and repair of existing systems. Employment for plumbers is expected to grow by 6% annually through 2033, which is faster than average.

To take advantage of this fast-growing career, consider attending Pennco Tech’s comprehensive Plumbing & Heating Technology program. It covers:

  • Pipe installation: This teaches techniques for installing various types of piping systems for residential and commercial properties.
  • Fixture installation: This consists of training in installing sinks, toilets, and other plumbing fixtures.
  • System maintenance: This involves learning how to maintain and repair plumbing systems.
  • Blueprint reading: This includes understanding and interpreting plumbing plans and specifications.

HVAC&R Technicians

HVAC&R technicians perform maintenance and repair climate control systems. These professionals are in high demand because of the increasing need for energy-efficient systems and maintenance of existing systems. Employment of HVAC&R technicians is projected to grow by 9% annually through 2033, faster than average.

To begin training for this in-demand job, apply to the HVAC&R Technician program at Pennco Tech, which is offered at campuses in Bristol, PA, and Blackwood, NJ. The program includes lessons on core areas, such as:

  • Implementing HVAC&R systems
  • Maintaining and repairing heating, cooling, and refrigeration systems
  • Optimizing systems for energy efficiency
  • Developing skills to diagnose and fix system issues

Benefits of Pursuing a Trade School Career at Pennco Tech

Choosing an in-demand trade school career comes with several benefits, including competitive pay, strong job security, and opportunities for advancement. Pennco Tech offers financial aid to qualified students and provides lifetime career assistance* to help graduates find employment. With locations in New Jersey and Pennsylvania, Pennco Tech is committed to assisting aspiring trade workers. To learn more about in-demand trade school careers, contact us or schedule a tour today.

*Availability of lifetime career assistance is contingent upon continuous institutional operations.

 

‘I got it!!!!!I got it!’, Anthony said as he raced into the Career Services Office. He was talking about his new job. Hired by a former graduate of Pennco Tech, Anthony will begin his new career with a two-day OSHA training course.

Anthony Z. - Air Conditioning/Heating Graduate

I enjoyed all my teachers. They made it interesting and challenging. I enjoyed going back to school at the age of 48! Career Services was a big help to me. Danielle was great. She helped me with my resume and showed me how to apply. I got the job with Dietz and Watson! Pennco Tech was the right choice for me as I get ready to start my career.

Mark E. - Electrician Graduate

I just wanted to say thank you again for all your help…I just got a full time job at Kennedy Healthcare in Stratford, NJ as a Patient Services Representative. Thank you again.

Maria Z. - Medical Assisting Administrative Graduate
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