Exploring Opportunities in the Building Trades Right Here in York County
If you’re looking for a career that’s hands-on, high-energy, and seriously rewarding, the building trades could be your perfect fit! From carpentry and electrical work to plumbing, HVAC, drafting, and project management, the construction world has tons of career options—and most of them don’t require a four-year degree. Plus, they come with great pay, job security, and real opportunities to move up.
Whether you’re just starting to think about your future or already know the trades are your thing, a career in construction can open up a stable and awesome future.
Why Choose a Career in Construction?
The building trades aren’t just jobs, they’re careers that matter. As a skilled tradesperson, you’ll be shaping the places where people live, work, and hang out. Here’s why construction is a smart move:
- Lots of jobs: There’s a big need for skilled workers everywhere.
- Earn while you learn: With job shadowing, internships, and apprenticeships, you can start getting paid while you build your skills.
- Career growth: You can climb the ladder—manage projects, lead teams, or even start your own business!
- Make a difference: The work you do has a real, lasting impact in your community.
- Skip the debt: College isn’t the only path. Most building trades careers won’t leave you drowning in student loans.
Step 1: Check Out the Different Building Trades
There’s no “one size fits all” career in construction.
Love building stuff from scratch? You might be into masonry or framing.
More into fixing problems and working with your hands? Plumbing, HVAC, or electrical trades could be your jam.
Start exploring by:
- Checking out different skilled trades online
- Watching career videos or reading real-world job stories
- Talking to tradespeople you know
- Visiting YBAWorkforceNOW.org/career-exploration for resources made just for students like you
Step 2: Hit Up Career Fairs and Events
Meeting people in the industry is one of the best ways to find out what’s possible.
In York County, groups like the YBA Workforce NOW Foundation host events where you can:
- Chat with real builders and trades pros
- Try hands-on activities
- Learn about all kinds of career options
Look out for:
- The Construction Career Days events
- The annual Building Trades Career Fair
- Visit the YBA Workforce NOW booth at the York Home & Garden Show
Step 3: Get Some Real-World Experience
Nothing beats hands-on learning.
A lot of local companies in York County are open to students for job shadowing, summer jobs, mentorships or internships. These chances help you:
- See what a real workday looks like
- Build important workplace skills
- Meet employers who could help launch your career
Plus, getting experience early shows you’re serious—and that can open even more doors later.
Step 4: Try a Pre-Apprenticeship
Still figuring out what trade you might love?
No problem. That’s where a pre-apprenticeship comes in.
If you’re in high school in York County, you can sign up for a PA State Registered building trades pre-apprenticeship through YBA Workforce NOW and YCAL. You’ll get:
- Hands-on projects
- Classroom learning
- State & National Certifications
- Meet Trades Professionals
Pre-apprenticeships are a great way to:
- Test out different trades
- Build your skills and confidence
- Boost your chances of landing a full apprenticeship
Step 5: Level Up with an Apprenticeship
When you’re ready, a registered apprenticeship is the next step.
It’s like a combo of school and work—you get paid while learning a trade, with training that usually lasts 3–5 years.
In York County, local builders, contractors, and employers are looking for motivated young people to bring into their crews. Find opportunities by:
- Talking to your school counselor or career advisor
- Reaching out to local contractors
- Connecting with the YBA Workforce NOW Foundation
Your Future Starts Now
If you’re not sure what’s next—or you know you want a career that’s hands-on and meaningful—the building trades are full of opportunities. And right here in York County, you’ve got the tools, programs, and people ready to help you succeed.
Ready to get started? Head over to ybaworkforcenow.org and start building your future today.
