You know that old tradie stereotype? It’s scheduled for demolition! Take a fresh look at the future of trades
Throw out the old career blueprint. Today’s trades are high-tech, future-focused and powering some of Australia’s fastest-growing industries. This is your chance to build big! In trades, imagination becomes reality, and apprenticeships can lead to six-figure salaries.
With nearly half of all occupations in national shortage linked to trades, the demand for skilled workers has never been greater. That means there’s never been a better time to step up and make your mark.
Whether you’re climate-conscious, passionate, practical, inventive or just curious, there’s a trades career with your name on it.
Tools up! Plan your career here
Not sure what your next career move looks like? Jobs and Skills Australia (JSA) has dropped a fresh tool designed to help take out the guesswork. Jump on the JSA website to connect vocational education and training (VET) qualifications with occupations using the Training Occupation Pathways data set.
They have the evidence you need to work out how different courses can unlock careers, ranging from healthcare and construction to tech, design and the creative arts.
Explore the JSA data set to plan your next move!
This article first appeared in Careers with STEM: Trades 2026.
