Scrolling through social media the other day, we came across an article and a video regarding Mike Rowe (of Dirty Jobs fame) that really caught our attention. He was talking about something too important to ignore — the massive nationwide shortage of skilled tradespeople: electricians, plumbers, HVAC techs, welders, and general contractors. A Fox Business article echoed the same message.
The takeaway is clear: these trades are largely “AI-proof” and represent real, stable opportunities for those willing to put in the work.
Why skilled trades are in such high demand
Right now the U.S. faces a significant shortfall of skilled workers. Estimates show about 439,000 positions are unfilled today, and projections put that number closer to 499,000 by 2026. Those gaps include electricians, plumbers, HVAC technicians, welders, and general contractors — roles that require hands-on skill, safety knowledge, and experience you can’t replicate with software.
Those shortages create opportunities. We’ve represented many clients before the North Carolina licensing boards (electrical, plumbing/HVAC/sprinkler, and general contracting). We’ve watched people put in the time, earn their licenses, and build profitable businesses that give them both financial success and a great lifestyle. But it doesn’t happen overnight.
AI and the trades: what’s safe from automation
AI is changing many professions. Coding and certain legal tasks are already being impacted by automation and large-scale AI tools. We’ve seen AI enter the legal-research space, and while it’s improving, we still don’t rely on it for legal research or writing in our office because there are too many potential mistakes.
That’s the thesis Mike Rowe has been sharing for years, and we agree. Plumbing a pipe, rewiring a home, troubleshooting an HVAC system, or welding a structural beam require physical skill, judgment, and safety precautions that software can’t deliver.
How to get started in a trade (education, hours, and licensing)
If you’re thinking about a trade but don’t know where to start, here’s a practical roadmap:
- Get hands-on experience: Work for a reputable contractor who teaches you the right and safe way to do the work. You’ll need thousands of hours depending on the license level you want.
- Consider trade school or community college: Programs like those at Wake Tech can reduce the amount of field hours you need because boards offer offsets for certain accredited coursework.
- Understand license types: Limited licenses require fewer hours; unlimited licenses require more. Each licensing board has different requirements.
- Document your hours: Supervising contractors often sign affidavits verifying your work hours — this matters at application time.
Start with a goal: “One day I want to own my own electrical/plumbing/HVAC/general contracting business.” With a plan and steady effort, you can build a strong foundation and move toward that goal.
Building and growing a trades business
After earning experience and licensure, growth comes from a mix of good service, smart hiring, and targeted marketing. We’ve seen technicians begin in sweaty attics and narrow, hot jobs for a few years, then add employees, hire back-office help, and even bring on sales staff. Over time those businesses can reach seven- or eight-figure revenue — but again, not overnight.
Marketing matters. Find underserved segments in your area. For example, you might target young professionals who just purchased townhomes and don’t have trusted contractors yet. Create a reliable pipeline of clients by solving a specific problem for a specific audience.
What growth looks like in practical terms
- Years 1–3: Focus on skill-building, safety, and gaining verified field hours.
- Years 3–5: Start adding technicians and basic administrative support.
- Years 5–8+: Expand marketing, hire sales or operations staff, and scale toward larger revenue goals.
Final thoughts — why now is a great time to get into the trades
The demand is real, the work is meaningful, and the path to owning a profitable, scalable business is attainable with the right combination of training, experience, and planning. If you’re uncertain about your next step, research trade programs, talk to respected contractors, and consider entering a trade that interests you. With the nationwide shortage and the long-term nature of the work, skilled trades offer stability and opportunity that many other careers can’t match right now.
If you want resources, check the blog posts and videos on our site and Youtube channel. And if you can’t find what you need, reach out — we’ll help you map out the process and get you pointed in the right direction. Keep building North Carolina — and have a great day.
*Nothing in this blog establishes an attorney-client relationship. Nothing in this blog is legal advice. If you have any questions, please check out our other blogs and our Youtube channel. You can also call us at 919-521-8810 with questions.
