Let me grab you by the toolbelt and take you back to the summer I almost fainted in a 120°F attic inspecting an air conditioner. If you’d told me then that sweating through my work shirt would lead to job security—and, trust me, some really good stories—I’d have laughed and handed you a bottle of water. But here’s the thing: the in-home trades aren’t just alive and kicking in 2025, they’re downright thriving. If you’ve ever wondered if plumbing, roofing, or HVAC can still put food on your table (and sometimes in your beard), you’re about to find out—straight from someone who’s been there, chili-stained polo and all.
1. The Great Trade Shortage—And Why It’s Your Open Door
Right now, the in-home trades are facing a workforce crisis—and that spells opportunity for you. The industry is only about 75% full, with a growing gap as experienced workers retire faster than new talent steps in. This shortage isn’t just a statistic; it’s a real, everyday challenge for companies in HVAC, plumbing, roofing, and electrical trades across the country. If you’ve ever wondered about job opportunities in the trades, there’s never been a better time to step in.
Why the Shortage? Retirements Outpace Recruits
For decades, skilled trades have been the backbone of every community. But now, as seasoned professionals hang up their tool belts, not enough new workers are coming in to replace them. The result? A growing labor shortage that’s only expected to widen in 2025 and beyond. In cities like Sacramento, there are at least eight or nine companies actively hiring and training new talent. And this isn’t just a local trend—across the U.S., companies are looking for people willing to learn and work.
Paid Training: Your Fast Track to a Recession-Proof Career
One of the biggest myths about the trades is that you need years of experience or expensive schooling to get started. The reality? Many companies are so eager to fill positions that they offer paid, on-the-job training. Whether you want to become an entry level HVAC technician, plumber, or roofer, you’ll find employers ready to invest in your future. As one industry insider puts it:
People always need heating, they always need cooling, they always need leaks fixed on their roof.
These are recession-proof careers in the trades. No matter what’s happening in the economy, homes will always need repairs—broken heaters, backed-up toilets, and leaky roofs don’t wait for a good time to strike.
Strong Salaries and Room to Grow
Worried about pay? The numbers speak for themselves. In 2025, the average entry-level HVAC technician salary is around $54,100 per year in the U.S. With experience, senior HVAC techs can expect a median salary of $77,200 per year. And it’s not just HVAC—plumbing and electrical trades are seeing similar pay scales, with industry-wide salary increases of 20-30% within two to four years for those who stick with it.
Companies Are Actively Recruiting—No Experience Needed
- Multiple companies per city (8-9 in Sacramento alone) are hiring and training new workers.
- No prior experience required—just a willingness to learn.
- Paid training and coaching included.
If you’re searching for job opportunities in the trades or want a career that’s both stable and in high demand, now is your moment. The demand for HVAC technicians in 2025 and beyond is only going up, and the same is true for other essential trades. The door is wide open—will you step through?
2. Not Just Sweat and Wrenches: How Picking (and Landing) Your Trade Works
When it comes to joining the home services industry, it’s not just about grabbing a wrench and jumping into the nearest crawl space. The first—and most important—step is figuring out what actually interests you. Plumbing and HVAC training both offer solid career paths, but the right fit depends on your personality, interests, and what you can see yourself doing day in and day out.
Start With What Sparks Your Interest
Before you even think about applications or interviews, take a moment to reflect on what excites you. Make a ranked list of trades that catch your eye. Maybe heating and air conditioning tops your list, followed by plumbing, then roofing. This isn’t just a random stab; it’s about finding a trade you won’t dread dragging yourself to every morning. The home services industry is broad, so there’s room to find your niche.
Research: More Than Just a Quick Google
Once you’ve narrowed your list, it’s time to do some homework. Search for local companies—there are often 8 or 9 in a city like Sacramento alone offering paid training for trades like HVAC and plumbing. Don’t just look at their websites. Dive into their reviews, check their ratings, and, if possible, talk to current techs. Nothing beats getting the inside scoop from people already working there. Company culture in the trades can vary widely, and first impressions can be deceiving.
Training: Company-Paid, But Not a Free Ride
Here’s some good news: most reputable companies offer paid resources for training HVAC and plumbing techs. The typical cost to train a new hire is between $50,000 and $100,000, so companies are invested in your success. In exchange, many will ask for a two-year commitment—not a legal contract, but a handshake agreement to help them recoup training costs. Don’t expect to be coddled, though. You’ll need to show initiative, ask questions, and put in the work.
Realities of Entry-Level Work: Not Always Glamorous
Let’s be real: starting out in the trades isn’t always pretty. You’ll work in all kinds of environments, from spotless homes to places that are, frankly, unforgettable. As one tech put it:
Some places you go to, you’re like this is off the hook crazy and I don’t think that this is the right thing for me.
Whether it’s cluttered basements or the world’s messiest bathrooms, you’ll see it all. It’s part of the job—and part of what makes every day different.
Key Steps to Landing Your Spot
- Make a ranked list of trades that genuinely interest you.
- Research companies—read reviews, check ratings, and talk to current employees about company culture in the trades.
- Ask about training—find out if it’s company-paid and what kind of commitment they expect.
- Prepare for the realities—entry-level work can be tough, but the experience is invaluable.
Choosing the right trade and company is about more than just sweat and wrenches. It’s about finding a path that fits you—and making sure you’re ready for everything the job throws your way.
3. More Than Money: Why Company Ethics and Culture Rule the Trades (And Your Sanity)
When you’re considering a career in the in-home trades, it’s easy to focus on pay rates, benefits, and job security. But here’s a truth every seasoned pro will tell you: company culture and ethics matter just as much—if not more—than the numbers on your paycheck. In the world of home services, the difference between a fulfilling career and daily dread often comes down to the values of the company you choose.
Every City Has Its Share: Ethical Companies vs. Shady Operators
Let’s be real—every city has both ethical companies in the trades and, unfortunately, some downright shady employers. The best companies are built on a foundation of honesty, respect, and responsibility. They train their teams, pay fairly, and treat customers and staff with integrity. On the flip side, there are companies that cut corners, pressure employees into questionable sales tactics, or simply don’t stand behind their work. These are the places where burnout and high turnover are the norm.
Get the Real Scoop: Ask the People Who Know
Before you sign on with any trade company, do your homework. One of the most reliable ways to gauge company culture in the trades is to talk directly to current employees. Don’t just rely on the company’s website or what the manager tells you in an interview. Sometimes, the most honest feedback comes from a casual chat with a technician grabbing lunch at the local taco shop or gas station. Ask questions like:
- “What’s it like working for your company?”
- “Do they treat you and customers fairly?”
- “Is there good training and support?”
- “Would you recommend working there to a friend?”
If you hear hesitation, or if the crew’s answers don’t match what you’ve been told, take note. As one experienced tech put it:
“You always want to work for someone who is willing to tell the truth, that’s always willing to stand behind their client, that’s always willing to put their money where their mouth is.”
Why Company Culture in the Trades Matters for Your Sanity
Research shows that a positive, ethical company culture in the trades leads to higher job satisfaction and better retention. When you work for a company that values honesty, invests in training, and supports its team, you’re more likely to feel respected and motivated. You’ll also avoid the stress and frustration that comes from being asked to “lie, cheat, or scam to get your way.”
It’s Not Just About Tools: Sales Roles and Advancement in Home Services
Don’t forget, the trades aren’t just for those who love wrenches and duct tape. Sales roles in home services are growing fast, and the best companies offer sales training, mentorship, and real advancement opportunities. Whether you’re interested in technical work or want to explore sales, ethical companies in the trades will help you build a career—not just a job.
In short, when you’re choosing where to work, prioritize ethical companies in the trades and a strong company culture. It’s the surest way to protect your sanity, your reputation, and your future in this growing industry.
Conclusion: Building a Career (And an Anecdote Arsenal) in the In-Home Trades
If you’ve ever wondered if plumbing, roofing, or HVAC can still put food on your table (and sometimes in your beard), you’re about to find out. The truth is, the skilled trades offer something rare in today’s job market: stability, strong earning potential, and a steady stream of opportunities—even when the economy takes a turn. While tech trends come and go, the need for reliable in-home services remains constant. In fact, as I write this, a heat wave is sweeping across the country, and there simply aren’t enough heating and air conditioning technicians to go around. That’s not just a seasonal spike; it’s a sign of how recession-proof careers in the trades really are.
But let’s get real for a moment. Building a career in the trades isn’t just about job security or a paycheck—though both are solid. It’s about grit, curiosity, and a willingness to embrace the unpredictable. You’ll work in homes that range from the spotless to the downright bizarre. You’ll meet clients who are grateful, quirky, or occasionally challenging. And you’ll find yourself in situations that no office worker could ever imagine. The best tradespeople aren’t just handy with tools; they have a knack for reading situations, solving problems on the fly, and rolling with whatever comes through the door.
What sets the trades apart isn’t just the competitive pay or the abundance of job opportunities. It’s the sense of meaning that comes from solving real problems for real people. Every leaky pipe you fix, every roof you patch, every AC unit you bring back to life—it all matters. And as you grow in your career, you’ll collect stories that are as valuable as your skills. These aren’t just tales to share over coffee; they’re proof of your adaptability, your resilience, and your ability to thrive where others might hesitate.
Success in the in-home trades comes down to a few key moves: take initiative, do your homework, and choose your company wisely. The right workplace will invest in your growth, whether you’re swinging a wrench, running sales calls, or managing projects. Many companies are eager to train newcomers, and after a couple of years, you’ll have the freedom—and the experience—to chart your own path. Remember, the trades aren’t just for those who can fix things; they’re for those who can connect with people and spot opportunities where others see obstacles.
So, if you’re looking for a career that’s built to last, offers strong earning potential, and delivers a lifetime supply of stories, the in-home trades might just be the smartest move you make in 2025. Bring your curiosity, your work ethic, and your sense of humor. The rest? That’s just experience—and a few great anecdotes—waiting to happen.
TL;DR: In-home trades like HVAC, plumbing, and roofing remain strong choices in 2025, with good pay, steady work, and opportunities for those ready to sweat a little—and learn a lot. Ethics (and a taste for the unpredictable) required!