TradePath Guide helps people in the United States figure out how to get into a skilled trade or healthcare career without a four-year degree. We explain what each job involves, how long the training takes, what it costs, how certification and licensing work, and what the work actually pays, using official data rather than marketing claims.
Why this site exists
If you search for how to become an electrician, a phlebotomist or a truck driver, much of what you find is written by schools trying to sell you a program. Salary figures are often inflated, costs are left out, and the fine print, like repayment contracts or state licensing rules, is easy to miss. We wanted a place that answers the questions people actually have before they spend months and thousands of dollars on training.
What we cover
- Healthcare careers such as CNA, phlebotomist, medical assistant, pharmacy technician, LPN and EMT.
- Skilled trades such as electrician, plumber, HVAC technician, welder and wind turbine technician.
- Transportation, including commercial driver’s licenses and company-sponsored training.
- Paying for training: grants, apprenticeships, real costs and how to spot programs to avoid.
How we research our guides
Every guide is built on primary sources: the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the U.S. Department of Labor, the Department of Education and Federal Student Aid, federal regulations, state licensing boards and the organizations that run certification exams. We link to those sources in each article so you can check them yourself, and we show the date each guide was last reviewed. When data is uncertain or experts disagree, we say so.
We use AI tools to help with research and drafting, and every article is reviewed and fact-checked against its sources before publication. You can read more in our editorial policy.
Independence
TradePath Guide is an independent website. We’re not a school, we don’t sell training programs, and no school or employer pays to be mentioned in our articles. The site is supported by advertising, which is clearly separate from our content.
Our guides are general information, not professional, legal or financial advice. Requirements vary by state and change over time, so always confirm the details with the relevant licensing board or school before you make a decision. See our disclaimer for more.
Who runs TradePath Guide
TradePath Guide is run by Jan Llaona. If you spot an error, have a question or want to suggest a topic, we’d like to hear from you through our contact page. Corrections are made promptly.