Top 10 Trade Jobs That Pay 100K A Year (Without a College Degree)

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While your friends are drowning in student loan debt, some trade workers are quietly earning more than lawyers and accountants. The highest-paying trade jobs in 2025 consistently reach six-figure salaries, with nuclear reactor operators earning $122,000+ annually, elevator installers commanding $106,000+, and specialized technicians often out-earning college graduates by age 25.

The numbers don’t lie: the average college graduate carries $37,000 in student debt and starts at around $55,000 annually. Meanwhile, skilled trade workers often start earning immediately during apprenticeships and can reach six-figure salaries within a few years.

Here’s what makes this even better: Most six-figure trade jobs require just 2-4 years of specialized training, not a four-year degree. You could be earning serious money while your college friends are still studying for finals.

In this guide, you’ll discover the exact trades that consistently hit six figures, what training they require, and how to break into these lucrative careers. By the end, you’ll have a clear roadmap to a high-paying trade career that could change your financial future.

The Reality Check: Trade Jobs That Actually Hit 100K

Trade jobs that consistently reach six-figure salaries share three characteristics: specialized skills, safety-critical responsibilities, and limited labor supply.

Not every trade job pays six figures. Most electricians and plumbers earn solid middle-class incomes in the $50K-$80K range. But certain specialized trades consistently break into six-figure territory because they require unique skills that few people possess.

These high-paying trades typically involve life-or-death responsibilities. Nuclear reactor operators control massive power plants. Elevator installers ensure safe vertical transportation in skyscrapers. Air traffic controllers manage aircraft carrying hundreds of passengers.

The limited supply of qualified workers drives up wages. As electricity grids become more complex, the role of power distributor or dispatcher ranks among the highest-paying trade jobs—offering a median salary of $107,240. Companies pay premium rates because finding qualified candidates is extremely difficult.

Interview Guys Tip: Focus on trades with union representation for faster salary growth. Union trade workers typically earn 15-20% more than non-union counterparts, plus better benefits.

The Top 10 Six-Figure Trade Jobs

1. Nuclear Power Reactor Operator – $122,610 median

Nuclear reactor operators control the heart of nuclear power plants, monitoring reactor systems, adjusting controls, and implementing emergency procedures when needed. Working as a nuclear power reactor operator places you among the highest-paying trade jobs in 2025, with a national median salary of approximately $122,610.

What they do: Control nuclear reactor operations, monitor safety systems, record operational data, and respond to emergencies. The base salary for Nuclear Reactor Operator ranges from $102,000 to $117,264 with the average base salary of $108,674.

Training required: High school diploma plus extensive on-the-job training and nuclear-specific certification programs. No college degree required.

Path to 100K: Most operators reach six figures within 2-3 years of completing training.

Growth outlook: Stable demand as existing plants modernize and new nuclear facilities come online.

2. Elevator Installer/Repairer – $106,580 median

Elevator and escalator installers consistently rank among the highest paying trade jobs, earning a median of $106,580 annually. These specialists install, maintain, and repair elevators, escalators, and moving walkways in buildings worldwide.

What they do: Install elevator systems, perform routine maintenance, diagnose mechanical problems, and ensure safety code compliance.

Training required: 4-year apprenticeship through the International Union of Elevator Constructors. No college degree needed.

Path to 100K: Union positions often start near $100K, with experienced technicians earning significantly more.

Growth outlook: Strong demand driven by urban construction and infrastructure development.

3. Power Distributor/Dispatcher – $107,240 median

Power distributors and dispatchers manage the electrical grid, ensuring electricity flows reliably to homes and businesses. They coordinate power generation, monitor system loads, and respond to outages.

What they do: Control power flow across electrical grids, coordinate with power plants, and respond to system emergencies.

Training required: Technical training programs plus extensive on-the-job experience. Associate degree helpful but not required.

Path to 100K: Base salaries start around $80K, with overtime and shift differentials pushing total compensation well above $100K.

Growth outlook: Growing demand as renewable energy sources require more sophisticated grid management.

4. Commercial Pilot – $113,080 median

Commercial flight operations—with salaries around $113,080—often top lists of the highest paying trade jobs, even though it’s not a traditional workshop role. These pilots fly charter planes, cargo aircraft, and tour flights.

What they do: Pilot aircraft for cargo companies, charter services, aerial photography, and specialized aviation operations.

Training required: FAA commercial pilot license plus required flight hours. Flight training programs typically take 1-2 years.

Path to 100K: Experienced pilots in specialized sectors like helicopter logging or corporate charter consistently earn six figures.

Growth outlook: Strong demand in freight aviation and specialized flight services.

5. Air Traffic Controller – $108,040 median

Air traffic controllers direct aircraft traffic to ensure safe takeoffs, landings, and flight paths. This high-stress, high-responsibility role commands premium compensation.

What they do: Direct aircraft movements at airports and through controlled airspace, manage flight schedules, and coordinate with pilots.

Training required: FAA Academy training program (typically 6-18 months). Highly competitive selection process.

Path to 100K: Federal positions with excellent benefits, experienced controllers at major airports earn $185,000+.

Growth outlook: Steady demand despite technology advances, with many controllers reaching retirement age.

6. Radiation Therapist – $103,360 median

Radiation therapists administer precise radiation treatments to cancer patients, operating sophisticated medical equipment that requires extensive training and certification.

What they do: Operate radiation therapy equipment, position patients for treatment, monitor radiation doses, and maintain detailed patient records.

Training required: 1-2 year certificate program after completing prerequisite courses. Associate degree or specialized certification required.

Path to 100K: Specialized healthcare settings and experience levels command premium rates above the median.

Growth outlook: Growing demand due to aging population and advances in cancer treatment technology.

7. Construction Manager – $108,210 median

Construction managers oversee building projects from planning through completion, coordinating workers, materials, and schedules on complex construction sites.

What they do: Plan construction projects, supervise crews, manage budgets, ensure safety compliance, and coordinate with architects and clients.

Training required: Construction experience plus management skills. Many start as skilled tradespeople and advance to supervisory roles.

Path to 100K: Large commercial projects and infrastructure work command premium management rates.

Growth outlook: Infrastructure investment and urban development drive strong demand.

8. Power Line Installer – $84,870 median (overtime pushes to 100K+)

Power line technicians install and maintain the electrical grid infrastructure. While the median salary is below $100K, overtime opportunities during storms and emergencies regularly push annual earnings above six figures.

What they do: Install power lines, maintain electrical equipment, respond to outages, and work on high-voltage systems.

Training required: 3-4 year apprenticeship through utility companies or trade schools.

Path to 100K: Storm restoration work and emergency response can double annual earnings through overtime.

Growth outlook: Grid modernization and renewable energy integration create ongoing opportunities.

9. Transportation Inspector – $81,320 median (senior positions 100K+)

Transportation inspectors ensure that vehicles, aircraft, and transportation systems meet safety standards and regulations.

What they do: Inspect transportation equipment, investigate accidents, ensure regulatory compliance, and maintain safety documentation.

Training required: Technical training plus certification in specific transportation sectors.

Path to 100K: Federal positions and specialized sectors like aviation inspection offer six-figure earning potential.

Growth outlook: Increasing safety regulations and infrastructure investment drive demand.

10. Diagnostic Medical Sonographer – $84,470 median (specialized fields 100K+)

Sonographers use ultrasound equipment to create medical images for diagnosis. Specialization in cardiac or vascular sonography consistently reaches six-figure salaries.

What they do: Perform ultrasound examinations, operate imaging equipment, analyze image quality, and assist physicians with diagnoses.

Training required: Associate degree or certificate program in diagnostic medical sonography.

Path to 100K: Cardiac sonographers and vascular specialists earn significantly above the median salary.

Growth outlook: Healthcare expansion and aging population drive strong job growth.

Interview Guys Tip: Target trades with federal employment opportunities – they typically offer the clearest path to six-figure salaries with excellent benefits.

What These Jobs Have in Common

These high-paying trades share several key characteristics:

• Safety-critical responsibilities that command premium pay
• Specialized training that creates talent scarcity
• Union representation that negotiates higher wages
• Significant overtime opportunities that boost total compensation

The Fast Track to 100K: Your Action Plan

Choose Your Path Strategically

Not all markets pay equally. According to the U.S. Department of Labor’s CareerOneStop resource, approximately half of power distributors and dispatchers have nondegree postsecondary education or an associate degree. Research salary ranges in your target area before committing to training.

Geographic mobility dramatically impacts earning potential. Nuclear operators in certain regions earn 20-30% more than national averages. Elevator installers in major metropolitan areas command premium rates.

Interview Guys Tip: Consider relocating for your apprenticeship – some regions pay significantly more for the same trade skills.

Master the Training Requirements

Apprenticeship programs vs. technical school: Most six-figure trades require apprenticeships rather than classroom education. These programs pay you while you learn and guarantee employment upon completion.

Timeline expectations vary by trade:

• Nuclear operator training: 1-2 years
• Elevator installer apprenticeship: 4 years
• Power plant operator training: 2-3 years
• Commercial pilot certification: 1-2 years

Certification and licensing essentials ensure you meet all regulatory requirements for your chosen field.

Maximize Your Earning Potential

Union membership benefits include higher wages, better benefits, and job security. Research union opportunities in your target trade.

Specialization opportunities within each trade can significantly boost earnings. Nuclear operators who specialize in reactor startup earn premium rates. Elevator installers who work on specialized systems command higher fees.

Building toward supervisory roles creates additional income streams and career advancement opportunities.

Breaking the College Debt Myth

While the average college graduate carries $37,000 in student debt, most six-figure trade jobs require less than two years of specialized training.

The return on investment comparison is striking:

College Path:

• 4 years of education
• $37,000+ in student debt
• Starting salary around $55,000
• Years of debt repayment

Trade Path:

• 1-4 years of training (often paid)
• Minimal educational debt
• Six-figure earning potential within 2-5 years
• Immediate career advancement opportunities

Time to market advantages mean trade workers start building wealth while college students accumulate debt. By age 30, many skilled tradespeople have higher net worth than their college-educated peers.

The skilled labor shortage has created unprecedented opportunities. Companies desperately need qualified workers and are willing to pay premium wages to attract talent.

Your Next Steps: From Interest to Income

Start with skill assessment. Which of these trades matches your natural abilities and interests? Mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and willingness to work in specialized environments are key success factors.

Research local training programs. Contact union halls, community colleges, and industry organizations in your area. Many programs have waiting lists, so apply early.

Connect with professionals currently working in your target field. The hidden job market is your fast track – 70% of jobs are filled before posting, tap into this pipeline. Informational interviews provide valuable insights and potential referral opportunities.

Consider our comprehensive guide on how to find a job fast for strategies that connect you directly with hiring managers in your target industry.

For career changers over 40, these trades offer excellent opportunities for reinvention. Our career change at 40+ guide shows how your experience becomes an asset rather than a liability.

Understanding the balance between technical and soft skills helps you position yourself effectively. Our guide on essential skills for your resume explains how to highlight both capabilities.

Interview Guys Tip: Once you master the basics, pursue specialty certifications – they’re your ticket from good pay to great pay.

The Bottom Line

The skilled trades offer a proven path to financial success without the burden of college debt—the only question is which high-paying trade matches your interests and local market opportunities.

These aren’t temporary opportunities or economic anomalies. The skilled labor shortage is structural and long-term. Baby boomers are retiring faster than young people are entering the trades, creating unprecedented demand for qualified workers.

Technology won’t eliminate these jobs—it will make them more sophisticated and better-paid. Modern nuclear operators use advanced computer systems. Today’s elevator installers work with smart building technology. Power grid operators manage increasingly complex renewable energy networks.

The choice is clear: You can spend four years accumulating debt for an uncertain job market, or you can enter a high-demand field where employers compete for your skills.

Your six-figure trade career starts with a single decision. Research training programs in your area, talk to professionals in your target field, and take the first step toward financial independence through skilled trades.

The opportunity is there. The only question is whether you’ll take it.

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