Trades vs. Tech: Can These Careers Make You Wealthy?

When it comes to building a successful career, the debate between pursuing a traditional trade and entering the world of IT or cybersecurity is heating up. With rising college costs, the lure of tech salaries, and the steady demand for skilled tradespeople, choosing the right path is more important than ever. Both paths can lead to wealth—but they require different mindsets, training, and strategies.

1. Training, Education, and Investment

Trades such as plumbing, electrical work, HVAC, and welding typically require trade school, vocational programs, or apprenticeships. Costs are often low compared to traditional four-year college degrees, and apprenticeships allow you to earn while you learn.

IT and cybersecurity careers, on the other hand, often rely on certifications and self-guided learning. Programs like CompTIA, Cisco, and Google IT certificates can range from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars. While shorter in duration than college, these certifications demand consistent study and hands-on practice.

The key takeaway: trades require hands-on skill-building, whereas tech careers require both technical knowledge and problem-solving abilities. Both demand investment, but IT often has higher upfront earning potential with lower educational debt.

2. Income Potential and Take-Home Pay

Trades can offer impressive salaries without a college degree. For example, an experienced plumber in the U.S. can earn a median salary of $60,000–$75,000 annually, with some making over $100,000 with overtime or their own business. Electricians, welders, and HVAC technicians see similar earning ranges.

Cybersecurity and IT specialists often start at $50,000–$70,000 for entry-level positions, with rapid growth potential. Mid-level professionals can make $90,000–$120,000, while specialized cybersecurity roles or IT management positions can exceed $150,000. Freelance IT work and contracting can also push income higher.

While the upper ceilings in tech may be higher, trades offer stability and the opportunity to start a business that scales without needing a degree.

3. Job Stability and Demand

Trades are essential—someone always needs plumbing, electrical repairs, or HVAC services. This creates near-constant demand, even during economic downturns. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects steady growth for most trade professions over the next decade.

IT and cybersecurity, fueled by digital transformation and increasing cyber threats, are also in high demand. Cybersecurity jobs, in particular, are expected to grow 33% from 2020 to 2030, much faster than the average for all occupations.

Both paths offer long-term stability, but tech roles often require ongoing learning to stay current, while trades benefit from experience and reputation.

4. Entrepreneurship and Wealth Building Opportunities

Trades offer natural paths to entrepreneurship. Starting your own plumbing or electrical business can lead to six-figure income, especially if you hire a team and scale your operations. Many tradespeople become small business owners, contractors, or franchisees.

IT professionals can also become entrepreneurs, launching consulting firms, cybersecurity agencies, or software development companies. However, scaling a tech business often requires higher initial investment, marketing, and client acquisition strategies.

The choice between trades and tech for wealth often depends on risk tolerance, business acumen, and how hands-on you want your work to be.

5. Lifestyle and Work Considerations

Trades often involve physical labor, irregular hours, and onsite visits, which can be demanding. But tradespeople frequently enjoy autonomy, flexible scheduling, and immediate results from their work.

IT and cybersecurity roles are usually desk-based, sometimes remote, with less physical strain. They can also offer flexible hours, especially in freelance or remote positions. However, the mental demands of problem-solving, constant learning, and staying ahead of cybersecurity threats can create stress.

Balancing lifestyle preferences with earning potential is crucial when deciding which path to pursue.

6. The Bottom Line: Wealth Is Possible in Both

Wealth isn’t guaranteed by a degree or a specific career path—it’s built through skill, discipline, strategy, and smart financial decisions. Trades offer stable, essential work and the potential to scale through entrepreneurship. IT and cybersecurity offer high earning potential and career mobility with lower initial costs than traditional college.

Your success depends on taking ownership of your skills, learning continuously, and using your career as a foundation for building financial independence.

7. Actionable Steps to Decide Your Path

1. Assess your strengths and preferences—do you enjoy hands-on work or digital problem-solving?

2. Research the earning potential and demand in your area.

3. Evaluate the educational investment and time commitment required.

4. Consider entrepreneurship potential and whether you want to scale your career into a business.

5. Plan your finances and savings strategy alongside your career choice.

The best path is the one that aligns with your skills, values, and long-term goals. Whether you choose trades or tech, disciplined execution and smart financial habits will help you build real wealth.

🧠 ThinkwithAD – PULSE

This article is part of ThinkwithAD – PULSE, spotlighting practical strategies, insights, and reflections to help professionals navigate life, career, and entrepreneurship in the real world.

⚠️ Disclaimer: This article is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional financial, legal, educational, or career advice. Results may vary depending on individual circumstances. Always use personal judgment and consult qualified professionals when making decisions that affect your career, education, or finances.