If you enjoy working with your hands and building things, a career in construction and skilled trades might be for you. In Buncombe, Henderson, Madison and Transylvania Counties, there are estimated to be around 11,467 jobs in the construction and skilled trades industry with an average annual wage of $44,203.18.

$44,203

Average earnings per construction and skilled trades jobs in the Local Area, from ESMI data.

11,467 Jobs

Estimated number of construction / skilled-trades jobs in Buncombe, Henderson, Madison and Transylvania Counties

Skilled trades include specialized areas such as plumbing, electrical work, solar installation, HVAC, carpentry, masonry, welding, and more. These trades require specialized knowledge and skills, and can lead to rewarding and lucrative careers in the industry.

Entry-level jobs in construction and skilled trades typically involve assisting more experienced workers with tasks such as carrying materials, using hand and power tools, and cleaning up job sites. As you gain experience and skills, you can move up the career ladder and take on more responsibilities.

One way to advance your skills and career in construction and skilled trades is to obtain certifications or additional training. Many employers in the industry will help you obtain the necessary certifications and training to advance your career.

With the region’s growing population and booming economy, there is a high demand for skilled workers in construction and skilled trades. Some of the main areas of growth in the industry include residential and commercial construction, remodeling and renovation, and infrastructure development.

Whether you are interested in working for a large construction company or pursuing a career in the skilled trades, there are many opportunities for a fulfilling and lucrative career in construction and skilled trades in Buncombe, Henderson, Madison and Transylvania Counties.

  • Our region is growing and we need craft professionals to help build our communities, housing, commercial and industrial construction
  • Through industry-recognized credentials and certifications, craft professionals earn competitive wages with minimal to no debt.
  • 74.3% of local construction firms expect to grow their workforce in the next five years.
  • The most job openings are projected to be for Commercial Construction Field Supervisors, Electricians, Estimators, Commercial Construction Project Managers and Supervisors and Managers.
View Career Pathways Chart

“I get to choose whether I hone my skills in residential, commercial, or industrial, and turn that into my career. I grow and develop week by week, which is really cool. Whether I’m taking pride in double checking my work or in the planning aspect of it, I can walk away every day with a smile.”

Zachary Runyon, Apprentice, Jackson Electrical Contractors

Career Success Stories

Read a few stories of people who’ve found opportunities for growth and on-the-job training.

Ruth Simons

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Homeowner Selection Coordinator at Habitat for Humanity

Erin Renwick

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Project Manager at Vannoy Construction

Ashley Kepley-Steward

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Operations Manager at Red Tree Builders

Marvette Fleischer

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Student at AB Tech Welding

Susan Russell

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Welding Instructor at AB Tech Madison

Brandon Vance Ledford

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Commercial HVAC Technician at MB Haynes

Anthony Waters

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Senior Construction Manager at Benton Roofing

Will Freece

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Project Manager at Jade Mountain Builders

Bryan Culler

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Electrician at A-American Electric

“Being in the skilled trades, you can go back to a site where you worked four to six months ago and see what you helped build. It gives you a sense of accomplishment, and you can make a decent living.”

Joseph Chalut,  Electrical Construction Manager, STG Solar

Current Job Openings

Find jobs and career employment opportunities near you.

Earn & Learn Programs

Free college and a paycheck!

Many employers will provide reimbursement for tuition, and will often pay for you to get certificates and accreditation to help advance your career. Education can include both formal education at a community college and a four-year university but it includes on the job training as well.

Visit an NC Works Career Center near you to connect with local resources.