In America, we enjoy many freedoms. We are lucky to have the freedom to think, act, speak, gather, and pursue our passions, not only personally, but in our careers as well.
Yet, while we have the freedom to choose our careers, not all careers offer the same freedoms. And if we learned anything from our forefathers it’s this: freedom is everything.
When it comes to careers, few offer the unique blend of freedom, opportunity, and the ability to achieve the American dream quite like the building trades.
Here are just a few of the amazing freedoms you can experience through a career in the trades:
Freedom to Forge Your Own Path
One of the most remarkable aspects of a career in the building trades is the freedom an individual has to forge their own path. Unlike traditional career paths that may feel repetitive, boring, and limiting, the building trades offer a dynamic environment filled with all types of different projects and exciting challenges. Whether you prefer to work on residential, commercial, or industrial projects, the building trades provide countless opportunities to shape your career in a way that aligns with your passion and goals.
Freedom in Pursuing an Education
The traditional path isn’t always the best path. Unlike the typical four-year degree route, apprenticeships provide a wealth of opportunities for individuals to gain practical skills and knowledge through hands-on learning and training. And they don’t make you wait: they give you the freedom to choose to start a career now, not later, and learn along the way. Whether you're interested in carpentry, plumbing, electrical work, or any other trade, the building trades offer the freedom of a pathway to develop expertise and achieve professional growth in a way that works for you.
Freedom from Debt
By pursuing a career in the trades through a registered apprenticeship instead of a costly four-year degree, tradespeople start earning on day one, enter the workforce sooner, and avoid the financial strain that often comes with student loans. And not only do they enjoy freedom from the weight of debt, but they can start enjoying the good life earlier.
Freedom in High and Equal Pay
Skilled tradespeople earn great livings. They are in high demand, well-trained, and their paychecks clearly reflect that - some tradespeople earn six-figure salaries as they progress in their careers! And while higher income allows for more flexibility and freedom in life, one of the most freeing aspects of pay in the trades is that it’s fair. In the building trades, the amount you can earn is directly tied to skills, work ethic, and your ability to deliver quality results, not gender, race, religion, sexual orientation, office politics, or educational pedigree. This level playing field allows you to chart your financial destiny while knowing that your hard work and dedication will be highly and fairly compensated.
Freedom of a Secure Life & Future
The financial freedoms offered by the trades go far beyond the big number on your paycheck. The trades provide outstanding benefits that ensure your security and well-being. From healthcare and retirement plans, to paid time off and disability coverage, the building trades prioritize the welfare of their workforce. These benefits of have big dollar values and provide peace of mind, allowing you to focus on your professional growth and personal life without worrying about “what if.”
Freedom to Enjoy What You Love
A career in the building trades grants you the freedom to not only enjoy work but also enjoy what you love outside of work. The trades offer an incredible work-life balance, giving you the time and flexibility to pursue your passions, spend quality time with loved ones, and do the things that bring you joy. Whether it's enjoying the outdoors, indulging in hobbies, or simply taking a well-deserved vacation, the building trades offer the freedom to lead a fulfilling and fun-filled life beyond the construction site.
It’s easy to see why tradespeople revere their careers like they revere their country: they both offer great freedoms. From education and equal pay to the security of fantastic benefits and time to enjoy what you love, the building trades are a gateway to a life of professional satisfaction and personal fulfillment that fully embodies the American dream. Hard work gets you there, and the trades give you the freedom to make it happen.
Ready to embrace a career that empowers you to construct a future that you're free in and proud of? Learn more and get started today!
