These skilled trades are the fastest to learn

Truck Driver

By 2030, the truck driver shortage could exceed 160,000, according to the American Trucking Associations. In response to the shortage, the federal government has implemented policies to reduce license processing delays and increase recruitment. Depending on the state, people must be at least 18 or 21 years old to become a truck driver. During training, truck drivers practice driving with a commercial learner's permit while completing a CDL program, which takes 3-7 weeks.

Medical Coder

Medical coders, also called medical records and health information specialists, usually earn a certificate in 9-20 months or an associate degree in two years. Sometimes students can get on-the-job training without any postsecondary education. Medical coding courses prepare students to take the Certified Professional Coder, Certified Coding Associate, or Certified Billing and Coding Specialist exams. Insurance companies and hospitals need medical coders to code patient data and medical procedures. Medical coders can translate medical procedures and treatment into current procedural terminology. According to the BLS, medical coders who work for the federal government made a median annual salary of $99,750 in May 2020!

Welder

Welders learn their trade at a vocational school or community college. They commonly earn certificates and diplomas that can take between three weeks to 18 months to finish. Students learn welding techniques such as gas metal arc welding, flux core arc welding, and shielded metal arc welding. Welders can earn credentials from professional organizations such as the American Welding Society, the American Petroleum Institute, or the American Society of Mechanical Engineers. Different states may require welders to obtain licensure.

Medical Assistant

Physician offices, hospitals, and outpatient care centers need medical assistants to do clinical and administrative tasks. Medical assistants do not need certification or licensure. But many people complete postsecondary education to earn a diploma or certificate that can take 9-24 months. Programs teach students about working with nurses and physicians to perform exams, take blood pressure and weight, and prepare lab samples..

Personal Trainer

Personal trainer jobs will grow by 39% from 2020-2030! Educational achievements vary by person, with some personal trainers holding certificates or bachelor's degrees. Personal trainers can complete an educational program through private companies or community colleges. Then, they must take state certification exams. Programs take about one month or up to a year to complete. Private companies and organizations such as the National Commission for Certifying Association offer fitness credentials.

Phlebotomist

Being a phlebotomist involves taking blood samples from patients while following safety and hygiene standards. The job requires keeping thorough records to track lab samples and results. Certificates and degrees, which take about two semesters or less than one year to finish, teach future phlebotomists how to do their job. The curriculum covers medical terminology, computer applications, and communication. Students complete practica in healthcare settings. Between 2020-2030, the BLS projects jobs for phlebotomists to grow by 22%.

Electrician

To become an electrician, people only need a high school or GED diploma. However, electricians need intensive on-the-job experiences through educational programs or apprenticeships. Electricians may work 2-5.5 years as apprentices under licensed electricians before obtaining a license. The top 10% made more than $99,800, according to the BLS.

EMT

Every state requires emergency medical technicians (EMT) to become licensed. Programs, such as those featured on the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs website, take between 1-2 months to complete. Prospective students need at least a high school or GED diploma and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) certification to begin an EMT program.

Diesel Mechanic

Diesel mechanics need a high school or GED diploma, and also often earn a certification or associate degree, which takes six months to two years to complete. Courses teach future diesel mechanics about climate control systems and repairs, hydraulic systems, and brake systems. They also learn about preventative maintenance and electronic systems and technology.

HVAC Technician

The heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) industry offers above-average salaries. Becoming an HVAC technician involves completing a vocational training program or apprenticeship. Depending on where they live, HVAC technicians may also need to earn licensure. Some companies hire and train HVAC technicians right out of high school. Others prefer hiring technicians who have completed a certificate or associate degree, which takes 6-24 months. Additionally, licensing agencies may require 2-5 years of work experience.