Pathway · Building & Construction Trades
From homes and schools to bridges and stadiums, the building and construction trades shape the world around us. Students learn the technical skills, safety standards, and craftsmanship behind a career that builds communities.
1. Industry Overview
The building and construction trades are essential to every community. From new construction and remodeling to infrastructure and repair, skilled trades workers are in constant demand across residential, commercial, and public projects.
This industry includes carpentry, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, masonry, welding, and general construction — careers that combine technical skill, problem-solving, and craftsmanship. Many of these roles offer high pay, stable employment, and clear paths to apprenticeships and business ownership.
With ongoing labor shortages and major investment in housing, infrastructure, and clean energy, the construction trades are one of the most reliable career fields for the next generation.
2. Student Experience in ACCESS
Students learn safety, tools, materials, and core trade skills through hands-on building projects.
Cabinetry, Millwork, and Woodworking
Full bio & photo to be provided by ACCESS CTE.
Cabinetry, Millwork, and Woodworking
Full bio & photo to be provided by ACCESS CTE.
Play & Learn
Two quick games — see how much you know, and how well you can guess what these careers really pay.
3. Career Opportunities
Frames, builds, and finishes structures from homes to commercial projects.
$50K–$92Kapprox. annual
Installs and maintains electrical systems in residential and commercial settings.
$62K–$115Kapprox. annual
Installs and repairs water, gas, and drainage systems.
$60K–$110Kapprox. annual
Installs and services heating, cooling, and ventilation systems.
$52K–$95Kapprox. annual
Joins metal components for construction, manufacturing, and infrastructure.
$45K–$80Kapprox. annual
Plans, coordinates, and oversees construction projects.
$100K–$180Kapprox. annual
Builds with brick, stone, concrete, and other masonry materials.
$48K–$85Kapprox. annual
Ensures buildings meet code and safety standards.
$72K–$120Kapprox. annual
Wage ranges reflect California medians from the U.S. BLS OEWS (May 2024 California estimates), with CA EDD Labor Market Info (Anaheim–Santa Ana–Irvine MD) and O*NET Online where state-level data isn’t published. Orange County metro figures are typically within ±10% of state medians; final verification against the linked sources is recommended before publication.
4. Job Growth · Orange County Focus
Orange County's housing market, infrastructure projects, and commercial development create constant demand for skilled trades workers. With major investment in housing, transportation, and clean energy, construction-related careers continue to grow across Southern California.
Apprenticeship programs and union pathways offer paid, on-the-job training — making this one of the most accessible high-paying fields for students entering directly from high school. Many trades professionals go on to start their own businesses.
Growth and demand figures are directional, based on CA EDD Labor Market Info (Anaheim–Santa Ana–Irvine MD) and O*NET Online; confirm before publication.
5. Community Partners & Events
Local contractors, builders, and trade organizations support the program.
Working professionals share their craft and career stories.
Visits to active construction projects and trade facilities.
Showcase events and trade skill contests.
Connections to union and non-union apprenticeship programs.
Work-based learning with local building and trades businesses.
6. Pathways & Next Steps
Apprenticeships, certifications, and college programs that lead directly to career-track work.
Earn while you learn through state-approved apprenticeship programs in carpentry, electrical, plumbing, and more.
Local colleges offer construction technology, building inspection, and trades certificate programs.
OSHA 10/30, NCCER credentials, and trade-specific certifications open doors to entry-level work.
7. Resources