What it's REALLY Like to be a Skilled Trades Worker: An Insider's Guide

When people think of skilled trades workers, they often imagine someone with a hammer in one hand and a wrench in the other, covered in dust and sweat. But the reality is, being a trades worker can be a lot more varied and exciting than that. From electrical work to plumbing to welding, there are so many different paths you can take as a tradesperson. And as someone who's worked in the trades for over 40 years (time flies), I'm here to give you the inside scoop on what it's really like.

First things first: let's talk about the physical demands of being a trades worker. It's true that some days can be tough – you might find yourself crawling under a house to fix some plumbing or spending hours on your feet while doing electrical work. But on the flip side, you're always moving, always getting exercise, and never sitting at a desk all day. In my opinion, that's a plus – it keeps you in shape and helps prevent the negative effects of a sedentary lifestyle.

Another common misconception about skilled trades workers is that the work is boring or mindless. Not true. Depending on your specialty, you might need to have an encyclopedic knowledge of building codes, be able to read complex blueprints with ease, or have the dexterity to work with tiny tools. There's always something new to learn in the trades, whether it's a new technique, a new tool, or a new safety protocol. Plus, you get the satisfaction of seeing a finished product at the end of the day – whether it's a working pipe or a completed electrical system.

Of course, being a skilled trades worker isn't all sunshine and rainbows. One big challenge is dealing with clients who don't understand the full scope of your work. Many people don't realize just how complicated plumbing, electrical, or HVAC systems can be, and they may not be willing to pay what it's worth to get the job done right. That's why it's important to not only be skilled at your trade, but also to have good communication skills and the ability to explain why your work is valuable.

There's also the issue of safety. No matter what type of skilled trades work you're doing, there are inherent risks involved. That's why safety training and protocols are so important. As a tradesperson, you need to be aware of potential dangers on job sites, from electrical shocks to falls to exposure to chemicals. It's not a job for the careless or the faint of heart. But as long as you take safety seriously and follow best practices, you can minimize your risk of injury.

In conclusion, being a skilled trades worker is a rewarding and challenging career path. Yes, there are times when it can be physically demanding or frustrating, but at the end of the day, you're using your skills to make the world a better place. As we move into a future that relies more and more on technology, there will always be a need for people who can fix things with their hands. So if you're someone who loves working with tools, enjoys problem-solving, and isn't afraid of a little hard work, I highly recommend considering a career in the trades.

Now if you want to learn more and ask me anything, I actually have Jamie McMillan, a female trades advocate, joining on my livestream this Saturday at 11am central time on YouTube and Facebook! You can feel free to ask us anything or catch the replay HERE.