Skilled trades make up the backbone of many businesses in Springdale. These trades include electrical, plumbing, heating, ventilation and air conditioning, and mechanics. Skilled tradespeople can work for a variety of companies, including those that provide services to homeowners or those that supply goods and services to other companies.
Careers in the skilled trades in Northwest Arkansas include 1,361 electricians, 710 mechanics, 626 plumbers, 536 fabricators and sheet-metal workers, and 452 heating, air conditioning and refrigeration technicians.
Many Springdale companies provide new employees with on-the-job training to advance their careers. Employees can train as apprentices while taking classes to earn a journeyman license as an electrician, plumber or HAVC specialist. Diesel mechanics are also in high demand to service semi trucks and construction equipment. Some local companies will help pay for training for employees who want to master their trade.
Careers are also available at companies that sell supplies to those in the skilled trades. These companies provide roofing, siding, and other building supplies as well as HVAC and plumbing materials. Supply companies employ delivery and warehouse workers and offer opportunities for promotions leading to sales and management careers.
In the next 10 years, skilled trade positions are expected to increase by 254 jobs for electricians, 152 for mechanics, 111 for fabricators and sheet metal workers, 101 for plumbers, and 83 jobs for HVAC technicians. Average pay in the trades varies depending on individual skill levels, but experienced tradespeople such as plumbers, electricians, and HVAC technicians can earn $ 60,000 a year or more.
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