Trade Career How-To Guides
TradeSchoolDudes.com serves as a comprehensive hub of step-by-step career guides designed to help you enter high-demand skilled trades with confidence—without the unnecessary jargon or sales-driven content.
Explore in-depth resources covering careers such as welding, HVAC, electrical work, diesel mechanics, emergency medical services (EMT), nursing assistance (CNA), medical assisting, plumbing, carpentry, commercial trucking, cosmetology, and many others. Each guide outlines essential details including training pathways, licensing or certification requirements, program duration, estimated costs, and practical advice for selecting accredited schools or apprenticeship programs.
All content is independently researched, non-sponsored, and created to provide transparent, no-nonsense guidance for anyone pursuing a stable and rewarding career in the skilled trades.
Browse How-To Guides by Career
Click any guide below to see step-by-step requirements, recommended training paths, and next steps for that career.
| Guide | Category | Typical Training Path |
|---|---|---|
| How to Become a Welder | Skilled Trades | Trade school or apprenticeship; welding certifications |
| How to Become an Electrician | Skilled Trades | Registered apprenticeship; licensing by state |
| How to Work in Sheet Metal | Skilled Trades | Registered apprenticeship; licensing by state |
| How to Become a Roofer | Skilled Trades | Registered apprenticeship; licensing by state |
| How to Become an Ironworker | Skilled Trades | Registered apprenticeship; licensing by state |
| How to Become an HVAC Technician | Skilled Trades | Trade program + EPA 608 certification; on-the-job training |
| How to Become a Plumber | Skilled Trades | Apprenticeship; journeyman/master licensing |
| How to Become a Heavy Equipment Operator | Skilled Trades | Registered apprenticeship; licensing by state |
| How to Work in Industrial Maintenance | Skilled Trades | Tech diploma/associate; mechanical & electrical cross-training |
| How to Become a Mason | Skilled Trades | Registered apprenticeship; licensing by state |
| How to Become a Machinist or CNC Operator | Skilled Trades | Trade school or on-the-job apprenticeship |
| How to Become a Construction Worker | Skilled Trades | Trade school or on-the-job apprenticeship |
| How to Work in Concrete | Skilled Trades | Trade school or on-the-job apprenticeship |
| How to Become an Automotive Mechanic | Automotive & Diesel | Tech school; ASE certification; dealership or shop training |
| How to Become a Lineman | Skilled Trades | Registered apprenticeship; licensing by state |
| How to Become a Diesel Mechanic | Automotive & Diesel | Diesel tech program; fleet or heavy equipment experience |
| How to Become an Aviation Mechanic | Aviation & Mechanical | FAA-approved A&P school or experience path; FAA certification exams |
| How to Become a Commercial Truck Driver | Transportation | ELDT-approved CDL training; CDL-A/B exam |
| How to Become a Marine Mechanic | Skilled Trades | Specialized marine tech program; OEM certifications |
| How to Become a Carpenter | Skilled Trades | Union or employer apprenticeship; on-the-job training |
| How to Become a CNA | Healthcare | State-approved training; competency exam |
| How to Become a Medical Assistant | Healthcare | Certificate/associate program; optional certification |
| How to Become a Dental Hygienist | Healthcare | Accredited associate/bachelor’s; board exams & license |
| How to Become a Pharmacy Technician | Healthcare | Short-term program; certification (state/employer dependent) |
| How to Become a Physical Therapy Assistant | Healthcare | Accredited PTA program; licensure exam |
| How to Become an EMT and Paramedic | Healthcare / Public Safety | EMT/Paramedic programs; NREMT & state certification |
| How to Become a LPN | Healthcare | Practical nursing program; NCLEX-PN; state licensure |
| How to Become a Firefighter | Public Safety | Academy training; CPAT/physical testing; certifications |
| How to Become a Police Officer | Public Safety | Police academy; exams, background & field training |
| How to Become a Licensed Cosmetologist | Skilled Trades / Beauty | State-approved cosmetology program; state licensing exam |
| How to Become a Barber | Skilled Trades / Beauty | Barber program; state license |
| How to Become A Chef | Culinary | Culinary school or apprenticeship; kitchen experience |
| How to Work in IT Without 4-Year College | IT & Tech | Certifications, bootcamps, hands-on projects |
| How to Work in Robotics and Automation | Advanced Manufacturing | Mechatronics/automation training; lab & fieldwork |
| How to Work in Accounting and Bookkeeping | Business & Office | Certificates or associate; software skills; optional certs |
| How to Become an Insurance Agent or Broker | Business & Sales | Pre-licensing course; state license; carrier appointments |
| How to Become a Real Estate Agent | Business & Sales | Pre-licensing education; exam; brokerage sponsorship |
| How to Become a Paralegal | Legal Support | Certificate/degree; law firm or corporate training |
Planning & Comparison Guides
Use these resources to compare options, avoid bad schools, and figure out which trade path fits you best.
- What You Should Ask When Applying to Trade Schools
- What Trade Career Should I Choose?
- Job Opportunities for Apprenticeships vs Trade School Credentials
- Is Financial Aid Available for Trade Schools?
- Trade School vs. Apprenticeships: Which Has Better Pay?
- Trade School vs. Apprenticeship: The Real Deal
How to Use These Guides
- Start with a career you’re curious about, then check requirements in your state.
- Compare trade school vs. apprenticeship options before you sign any enrollment paperwork.
- Use our state hubs and apprenticeship database to find accredited programs that match each guide.