These days, it’s a common misconception that you need to have a college degree in order to be able to make any money. While having a degree will certainly make it easier in many respects to make money within certain fields, it is certainly not the only option.

If you are the type of person who would rather work with their hands rather than spending hours poring through books, you might actually enjoy a trade rather than a white-collar profession – and earn a ton of money in the process.

If you are looking at earning a six-figure salary without earning a degree, you might want to read through our list of questions and answers that will give you a better chance of doing just that.

What is a Trade Job?

While many people think of trade jobs as limited to manual labor, this is not necessarily the only options open to those looking to enter into this field.

In fact, most trade jobs actually require a specialized set of abilities and while they tend to be more physical than white collar positions, this doesn’t mean that they require less skill. If you’re interested in a job within a trade, you’ll need to commit yourself to a certain amount of time where you’ll learn how that trade is done.

How do I Learn a Trade?

When it comes to learning a trade, you’ll find that there are many ways to enter into the field. In some instances, people start out as hobbyists and learn the trade at their own pace. In fact, many people within these types of industries acquire the skills because they enjoy what they do and so they will spend a lot of time doing what they love.

In the past, people would need to learn from those around them or even sign up under a skilled tradesman as an apprentice, but believe it or not, these days a lot of this information is shared online. YouTube is an especially popular option for those looking to learn a new skill as there are tutorials applicable for everyone ranging from beginners to master craftsmen available in just about every type of trade.

Is Formal Training Available for Trade Jobs?

While it is true that those in a trade will usually not spend most of their time pouring through books in order to obtain their qualifications, there is often a level of formal training required for those entering into many trades.

Usually, training within these fields are provided within technical schools or even community colleges, and it’s common for students to receive some sort of qualification once this has come to an end.

How Long Does a Formal Apprenticeship Last?

A very typical apprenticeship lasts for about 5 years, depending on the field into which you are looking to enter. Usually, in order for someone to enter into this sort of program, they will need to sign up with a local chapter.

It is also quite common for apprentices to be paid a fee as they start to learn their trade. This is what makes this type of option very appealing – you can start to earn money as you learn, making it easier for most people to enter into their chosen field.

What Type of Work is Done by a Longshoreman?

If you are looking for a very active job, a job as a longshoreman might be just the one for you. This type of position is one that is done within international ports as these professionals are responsible for the transportation of goods. As a longshoreman, you’ll be responsible for loading and unloading freight.

You’ll need to apply for a Transportation Worker Identification Credential card, as well as be willing to work as a casual worker before gaining permanent employment.

How Do I Become an Electrician?

Electricians work with electricity, installing, repairing and maintaining electric power. In order to be able to work within this field, you’ll need to complete a certificate or associate’s degree within this field, as well as an apprenticeship.

Depending on where you live, you might also need to take an exam in order to get a license to be able to work within your state. Keep in mind that while this trade is very hands-on, there is also a level of study required to ensure that you know what you’re doing. This career is as stimulating as it is rewarding – including in a financial sense.

In What Type of Environments do Plumbers Work?

Plumbers have a very varied job and this type of professional will often find themselves in a wide range of environments. If you’re not one to get your hands dirty, this might not be the career for you as you will definitely find yourself confronted with a variety of messy situations.

Plumbers will often be expected to work within small, dirty environments and you this can make it a tough job to complete.

Do I Need a License to Practice as a Plumber?

This depends on where you live, but in most cases, you will need to have completed an apprenticeship, as well as pass an examination in order to get a license to start practicing within your state.

If you’re looking to go one step further, you can continue your training and obtain your master plumber’s license, or even become a specialty plumber. Keep in mind that as there are fewer of these professionals around, they will often get paid a lot more.

What Types of Skills Do Welders Need?

As a welder, there are a wide range of skills you’ll need, including utilizing clamps and torches to bind metals.

Not only will you need to be skilled with your hands, but you’ll also need to be able to calculate dimensions, read blueprints and examine for defects, which requires a certain attention to detail. It’s quite common for welders to be required to train at a school or college, as well as to obtain an AWS certification.