Boulder is a major university town, home to a renowned research center where students can pursue degrees in over 60 fields. But these days, it’s hard to ignore the impact of AI. Many students are starting to wonder if their future jobs will even exist by the time they graduate, and they’re right to be concerned.

AI is poised to transform the job market, and many white-collar jobs, especially entry-level positions, are vulnerable. This is where the skilled trades offer a compelling alternative. Electricians, plumbers, and welders aren’t going to be replaced by robots anytime soon.

These jobs require critical thinking, hands-on skills, and the ability to adapt to real-world situations, things AI can’t easily replicate. These trades offer a stable and promising career path in an increasingly automated world.

Interesting AI-Proof Trades

AI excels at automating repetitive tasks, analyzing data, and performing calculations with incredible speed. However, it struggles with tasks requiring adaptability, critical thinking, and intricate physical dexterity. We will compare several in-demand professions and examine why they offer promising career paths.

Electricians

Electricians are essential to modern life, ensuring the safe and efficient flow of electricity that powers our homes, businesses, and infrastructure. Their work demands a deep understanding of electrical theory, wiring, and safety protocols. Diagnosing electrical faults often requires on-site assessment, critical thinking, and adapting to unforeseen circumstances. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 11% growth for electrician jobs through 2031, faster than the average for all occupations.

How to become one: Most electricians complete an apprenticeship program, which combines classroom instruction with paid on-the-job training under the supervision of experienced electricians. These programs typically last four to five years. To keep up with evolving technologies and safety standards, electricians often need to pursue continuing education.

Earning potential: The median annual wage for electricians was $61,590 in May 2023, according to the BLS.

Plumbers

Plumbers ensure the safe and efficient delivery of clean water and the removal of wastewater, playing a vital role in public health and sanitation. They work with a variety of materials and technologies, from traditional pipes to modern fixtures and appliances. Plumbing often involves physically demanding tasks in varied environments, requiring strength, stamina, and the ability to adapt to unexpected challenges. The BLS projects 6% growth for plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters through 2031, faster than average for all occupations.

How to become one: Similar to electricians, most plumbers learn their trade through an apprenticeship program, typically lasting four to five years. Some plumbers may also attend vocational schools. Plumber training is mandatory to stay current with new plumbing codes, technologies, and best practices.

Earning potential: The median annual wage for plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters was $61,550 in May 2023, according to the BLS. The highest 10% earned more than $103,140.

Welders

Welders use specialized equipment to fuse metals together, creating strong and durable joints essential for construction, manufacturing, and repair. Their work requires precision, attention to detail, and an understanding of different welding techniques and materials. The BLS projects that welder jobs will grow by 4% through 2031, as fast as the average for all occupations.

How to become one: Many welders learn their trade through vocational schools or community colleges. On-the-job training and apprenticeships are also common paths to becoming a welder. They often need to pursue continuing education and certifications to stay competitive and master new welding techniques and materials.

Earning potential: The median annual wage for welders, cutters, solderers, and brazers was $48,030 in May 2023, according to the BLS.

HVAC Technicians

HVAC technicians install, maintain, and repair heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems in residential and commercial buildings. These systems are essential for maintaining comfortable and safe indoor environments, and the increasing complexity of HVAC technology requires skilled technicians to ensure their proper operation. The BLS projects 9% growth for HVAC mechanics and installers from 2021 to 2031, which is much faster than average.

How to become one: Many HVAC technicians complete postsecondary training programs at technical schools or community colleges. Apprenticeship programs are also common, combining classroom instruction with on-the-job training. Continuing education is crucial in this field to stay current with new technologies, such as smart thermostats, energy-efficient systems, and environmentally friendly refrigerants.

Earning potential: The median annual wage for HVAC mechanics and installers was $57,300 in 2023, according to the BLS.

Investing in Skills for a Changing Economy

The future is here, and it’s… complicated. AI is transforming industries, automating tasks, and making us question the very nature of work. But amidst all the digital disruption, one thing remains clear: we still live in a physical world. And that world needs skilled hands to build, maintain, and repair it.

So, while the robots are busy learning to play chess, you can master the art of wiring a smart home, installing a high-efficiency plumbing system, or welding the next generation of spacecraft.

John Mali Director of Media Relations

Director of Media Relations at AboutBoulder.com

john@aboutboulder.com