Preparing for the Future: The Need for Skilled Trades Jobs in the Energy Field

We’re in the middle of a major shift in how work gets done. As AI, automation, and advanced technology continue to evolve, one thing is becoming clear: skilled trades are more essential than ever.

From electricians supporting smart infrastructure to wind turbine technicians, today’s skilled trades jobs require a blend of hands-on expertise and technical awareness. These roles aren’t being replaced by technology, they’re being elevated by it.

The need for skilled trades professionals continues to grow, particularly in the energy field. Electricians, solar voltaic installers, welders, wind turbine technicians, and pipe fitters are in high demand. For example, wind turbine technicians jobs are expected to grow 50% between now and 2034.

For candidates, success comes down to staying adaptable. Building technical skills, strengthening communication, and committing to continuous learning will help position you for long-term success in modern skilled trades careers.

How Job Seekers Can Succeed in Skilled Trades Today

The future of work is evolving quickly. AI, robotics, and smart systems are changing job requirements across industries, including skilled trades.

Many workers will need to learn new tools or expand their capabilities over time. In some cases, that may mean transitioning into new roles or specialties within the trades. One of the most valuable skills in today’s workforce is the ability to continuously learn and adapt – known as iterative learning. Employers are looking for candidates who can grow with changing technologies and job demands.

While there’s a lot of conversation around automation and job loss, the reality is more about transformation. Skilled trades jobs are evolving, not disappearing, and that creates new opportunities for those willing to adapt.

Skilled Trades and Automation: What to Expect

Automation is changing how work gets done, but it isn’t eliminating the need for skilled workers. Instead, many roles are shifting to focus less on repetitive tasks and more on problem-solving, troubleshooting, and decision-making. This is especially true in skilled trades, where hands-on work and real-time judgment are critical.

Jobs like welding, electrical work, and solarvoltaic installers remain in high demand because they require physical presence and specialized expertise. While technology may change how tasks are performed, it doesn’t replace the need for skilled professionals.

The key takeaway for job seekers: technical skills matter, but adaptability matters just as much.

The Skills That Set Skilled Trades Workers Apart

As technology becomes more integrated into the workplace, employers are placing greater value on human skills that can’t be automated.

MIT Researcher Isabella Loaiza and MIT Economist Roberto Rigobon came up with an EPOCH score as to what jobs would be harder replace with AI or automation. The EPOCH score:

• Empathy – connecting with others on a human level.
• Presence – physically showing up, collaborating face-to-face.
• Opinion/Judgment – applying ethics, critical thinking, and judgment calls.
• Creativity – imagining new ideas beyond existing data.
• Hope – leading, inspiring, and envisioning the future.

In skilled trades careers, these skills often show up on the job site, whether it’s collaborating with a team, training new workers, or solving unexpected challenges.

Candidates who combine technical ability with strong soft skills are more likely to stand out in today’s hiring market.

How to Build a Career in Skilled Trades

If you’re exploring skilled trades jobs or looking to advance your career, focusing on long-term adaptability is key.

Here are a few ways to stay competitive:

• Invest in certifications and training to build in-demand technical skills
• Stay current with new tools and technologies used in your trade
• Develop strong communication and leadership abilities
• Be open to learning new systems, including AI-driven tools

Employers value candidates who are proactive about their growth and ready to take on evolving job responsibilities.

In-Demand Skilled Trades Jobs

Many skilled trades careers offer strong job outlooks, competitive pay, and clear pathways to entry through training programs or certifications. Career opportunities in renewable energy are set to surge over the next decade.

 

Solar Voltaic Installer

Solar photovoltaic installer roles are projected to grow by an impressive 42%. The job only requires a high school diploma and pays $51,860 on average. Demand is exceptionally high in California, Texas, Florida, New York, and Massachusetts.

Wind Turbine Technician

Similarly, wind turbine technician jobs are expected to climb even higher with up to 50% growth over the same period. The job requires either an associate’s degree or a 1- to 2-year postsecondary certificate. On average, the job pays $62,580. The top states to find a job are Texas, California, Kansas, Oklahoma, Iowa, Minnesota, Pennsylvania, New York, North Dakota, and New Mexico. 

Other in-demand skilled trades careers include:

• Automation Technicians
• Welders
• Electrical Technicians
• Quality Assurance Specialists
• Maintenance Technicians
• CNC Programmers

Learn More in Our Skilled Trades Guide

If you want to learn more about how to prepare professionally for the Smart Machine Age we’re living in, download our Skilled Trades Guide. There, you can learn more about the advantages humans have over AI and find links to government resources, helpful articles, and industry associations that offer training.



Looking for a Skilled Trades Job?

Check out open positions on the Nesco Resource Careers page or reach out to a local branch. Nesco Resource, a nationally ranked workforce solutions organization, was founded in 1956 in Cleveland, Ohio. Nesco focuses on personalizing your success, connecting top talent with great employers and opportunities.