Find Your Fit in York County’s Building Trades Industry
Let’s explore how to choose the right construction trade for you.
1. Start with What You Enjoy
Every trade requires a unique mix of interests and strengths. The best place to start? Ask yourself what you actually enjoy doing.
- Do you like working outdoors or indoors?
If you enjoy fresh air and physical work, trades like roofing, masonry, or concrete finishing could be a great fit. Prefer indoor, detailed work? Drywall, finish carpentry, or electrical might suit you better. - Are you a problem-solver or a builder?
Electricians and HVAC technicians often troubleshoot complex systems, while carpenters and masons focus on building and shaping materials. - Do you like seeing quick results or long-term projects?
Painters, tile setters, and flooring installers see their results daily. Builders, plumbers, and electricians might work on larger projects that take weeks or months to complete.
Your natural preferences can help guide you toward a trade that feels rewarding—not just financially, but personally.
2. Match Your Skills to the Right Trade
Different trades call for different skill sets. Here are a few examples to help you identify where you might excel:
Trade |
Ideal for People Who… |
Carpentry |
Enjoy measuring, cutting, and assembling things; like creative problem-solving; good with tools. |
Electrical |
Pay close attention to detail; enjoy math and problem-solving; like working independently. |
Plumbing |
Are methodical thinkers; don’t mind tight spaces; like fixing and maintaining systems. |
HVAC |
Enjoy mechanics and technology; like diagnosing and repairing systems; don’t mind variety. |
Masonry |
Like hands-on, physical work; enjoy working outdoors; have a strong eye for detail. |
Painting / Finishing |
Have patience and a steady hand; care about precision and appearance. |
If you’re not sure where your strengths lie yet, that’s okay! Training programs like the YBA Workforce NOW Pre-Apprenticeship give you exposure to multiple trades so you can discover your fit before committing to one.
3. Consider Earning Potential and Demand
Construction jobs aren’t just hands-on, they’re high-demand and high-paying, especially in Pennsylvania.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for construction and extraction occupations in Pennsylvania is around $58,000, with skilled tradespeople often earning much more.
Here are a few examples of average annual earnings in Pennsylvania:
- Electricians: $66,000+
- Plumbers and Pipefitters: $65,000+
- Carpenters: $57,000+
- HVAC Technicians: $59,000+
- Masons: $55,000+
And in York County, employers continue to report strong demand for new talent in every trade. Many local companies offer paid apprenticeships, meaning you can earn while you learn instead of taking on college debt.
Check out a sampling of building trades job descriptions here.
4. Explore Construction Career Pathways in York County
No matter where you start, there’s room to grow in the building trades.
You might begin as a helper or apprentice, then become a journeyman, foreman, or even start your own business someday. With experience and dedication, the opportunities are nearly endless.
And right here in York County, there are programs to help you get started:
- YBA Workforce NOW Pre-Apprenticeship Program — Hands-on training in multiple trades, designed for high school students.
- Building Trades Career Fair & Local Partnerships — York County students can connect with local businesses and employers at the annual Building Trades Career Fair.
- Construction Career Days — Want to see what the trades are really like? Attend Construction Career Days, where York County students connect with employers and experience hands-on activities in carpentry, plumbing, electrical work, and more.
Ready to discover your path? Learn more about building trades training & job opportunities through the YBA Workforce Now Foundation here.
