Every major trade union — application paths, real salaries, apprenticeship timelines, and a 28-question quiz that matches you to the right trade. No degree. No BS.
16
Major Unions
$24/hr
Starting Pay
$125K+
Top Journeyman
None
Degree Needed
Steele knows all 16 major trade unions inside out — wages, apprenticeship paths, how to apply, and which one fits your personality and goals. Ask him anything, or take the 28-question quiz to get your top 3 matches.
Quick questions
Info only — not legal or financial advice. Union terms vary by local. Verify directly with your union hall. · Email us
12%
Higher wages
Union workers earn 12% more than non-union in the same trade — before benefits.
95%
Health coverage
Nearly all union apprentices receive employer-paid health insurance from day one.
$0
Tuition cost
Apprenticeship training is 100% free. You earn while you learn — no student loans.
Every card links directly to the official union apprenticeship page. No middlemen.
International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers
Wire, install, and maintain electrical systems in homes, factories, and commercial buildings. High demand across all 50 states.
$60,000–$120,000
Salary
5 years
Training
700+ locals
Locals
United Brotherhood of Carpenters
Build and repair structures from rough framing to finish carpentry, cabinetry, and formwork. One of the largest trade unions in North America.
$50,000–$100,000
Salary
4 years
Training
500+ locals
Locals
United Association of Plumbers & Pipefitters
Install and maintain water, gas, and industrial pipe systems. Plumbers are consistently among the highest-paid tradespeople in America.
$55,000–$110,000
Salary
5 years
Training
340+ locals
Locals
Sheet Metal, Air, Rail & Transportation Workers
Fabricate, install, and maintain HVAC systems, ductwork, roofing panels, and industrial equipment. Growing demand with the green energy boom.
$50,000–$105,000
Salary
5 years
Training
180+ locals
Locals
International Association of Iron Workers
Erect steel frames for skyscrapers, bridges, and industrial plants. If you have no fear of heights and love working at scale — this is your trade.
$55,000–$115,000
Salary
3 years
Training
150+ locals
Locals
International Union of Operating Engineers
Operate cranes, bulldozers, excavators, and other heavy machinery on major construction and infrastructure projects.
$55,000–$120,000
Salary
3 years
Training
120+ locals
Locals
Laborers' International Union of North America
The fastest entry point to union construction. Laborers work on virtually every type of project — from roads to buildings to tunnels.
$42,000–$90,000
Salary
2–3 years
Training
500+ locals
Locals
International Union of Bricklayers & Allied Craftworkers
Lay bricks, stone, marble, tile, and terrazzo. One of the oldest skilled trades — artistic work with lasting physical results.
$48,000–$100,000
Salary
3–4 years
Training
60+ locals
Locals
International Union of Painters & Allied Trades
Specialize in painting, wallcovering, glazing, drywall, and industrial coatings. Strong demand in both residential and commercial sectors.
$42,000–$90,000
Salary
4 years
Training
300+ locals
Locals
United Union of Roofers, Waterproofers & Allied Workers
Install, repair, and maintain roofing systems on commercial and residential buildings. Growing demand driven by climate resilience upgrades.
$45,000–$95,000
Salary
3 years
Training
150+ locals
Locals
International Brotherhood of Boilermakers
Assemble, install, and maintain boilers, pressure vessels, and industrial tanks used in power plants, refineries, and manufacturing.
$60,000–$125,000
Salary
4–5 years
Training
200+ locals
Locals
International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers
Machine precision parts for aerospace, defense, automotive, and heavy manufacturing. One of the most technically demanding — and rewarding — trades in America.
$50,000–$105,000
Salary
4 years
Training
600+ locals
Locals
International Brotherhood of Teamsters
Drive commercial vehicles, operate warehouses, and move materials on major construction and infrastructure projects. One of the largest and most powerful unions in North America.
$50,000–$100,000
Salary
1–3 years
Training
1,400+ locals
Locals
International Longshore and Warehouse Union
Work the docks, ports, and warehouses that keep America's supply chain moving. ILWU members on the West Coast are among the highest-paid blue-collar workers in the country.
$50,000–$120,000
Salary
1–4 years
Training
60+ locals
Locals
Service Employees International Union
One of the largest and fastest-growing unions in North America. SEIU represents janitors, security officers, building engineers, healthcare workers, and property service workers across the country.
$35,000–$75,000
Salary
On-the-job training
Training
100+ locals, 2 million members
Locals
International Union of Elevator Constructors
Install, maintain, and repair elevators, escalators, moving walkways, and lifts in commercial and residential buildings. One of the highest-paid trades in construction with strong demand in growing urban markets.
$80,000–$150,000+
Salary
4 years
Training
100+ locals
Locals
Pick your role and get matched to the right tools, training, and opportunities on Stonebyte.