Top 12 Skilled Trades & Manual Labor Skills to Put on Your Resume
In today's job market, showcasing a diverse set of skilled trades and manual labor skills on your resume can significantly enhance your employability and appeal to potential employers. This article outlines the top 12 skills that can set you apart, highlighting the demand for practical, hands-on expertise in various industries.
Skilled Trades & Manual Labor Skills
- Welding (MIG/TIG)
- Carpentry
- Plumbing
- Electrical (NEC)
- HVAC (EPA Certification)
- Masonry
- Machining (CNC)
- Painting (Spray Techniques)
- Forklift Operation
- Blueprint Reading
- Safety Compliance (OSHA)
- Soldering (IPC Certification)
1. Welding (MIG/TIG)
Welding is a skilled trade that involves joining metal parts together using heat and filler materials. MIG (Metal Inert Gas) and TIG (Tungsten Inert Gas) are two common methods:
MIG welding uses a wire feeding gun that feeds wire at an adjustable speed and flows an argon-based shielding gas or a mix of argon and carbon dioxide over the weld puddle to protect it from atmospheric contamination.
TIG welding uses a non-consumable tungsten electrode to produce the weld. The weld area is protected from atmospheric contamination by an inert shielding gas (argon or helium), and a filler metal is typically used, though some welds, known as autogenous welds, do not require it.
Both require manual dexterity, precision, and a thorough understanding of metal properties.
Why It's Important
Welding, including MIG and TIG techniques, is crucial in skilled trades and manual labor for creating strong, precise, and durable joins in metals. This capability is essential across various industries, including construction, automotive, aerospace, and manufacturing, enabling the fabrication and repair of structures, vehicles, machinery, and equipment.
How to Improve Welding (MIG/TIG) Skills
Improving your MIG/TIG welding skills involves a combination of understanding welding principles, practicing regularly, and learning from experienced welders. Here’s a concise guide to enhancing your welding abilities:
Understand the Basics: Have a solid grasp of welding fundamentals, including the differences between MIG (Metal Inert Gas) and TIG (Tungsten Inert Gas) welding, and the types of metals each method is best suited for. Miller Electric and Lincoln Electric offer comprehensive guides.
Select the Right Equipment: Use the appropriate welding machine, settings, and consumables (wire, gas, tungsten electrodes) for the material and job at hand. Research the specifications recommended by manufacturers for specific applications.
Practice Consistently: Regular practice is crucial. Begin with simple, straight welds before progressing to more complex joints and positions. Practice on scrap material similar to your work projects.
Learn from Others: Watch tutorials from experienced welders, and if possible, seek mentorship or take classes. YouTube channels like Weld.com and WeldingTipsandTricks are valuable resources.
Fine-Tune Your Technique: Focus on steady hand movements, maintaining the correct angle and distance of the welding torch, and adjusting travel speed to ensure consistent bead appearance.
Safety First: Always prioritize safety by wearing the appropriate gear (welding helmet, gloves, apron) and working in a well-ventilated area. OSHA provides guidelines on welding safety.
Analyze and Adjust: After each welding session, inspect your welds for defects (e.g., porosity, undercutting) and adjust your technique or settings accordingly.
By consistently applying these strategies and seeking continuous improvement, your MIG/TIG welding skills will advance, contributing to higher quality work and professional growth in skilled trades and manual labor.
How to Display Welding (MIG/TIG) Skills on Your Resume
2. Carpentry
Carpentry is a skilled trade focused on the cutting, shaping, and installation of building materials during the construction of buildings, ships, timber bridges, and other structures. Carpenters work with natural wood and other materials to create and install frameworks, structures, and fixtures.
Why It's Important
Carpentry is vital in skilled trades and manual labor as it provides the foundational skills and techniques for constructing, repairing, and maintaining buildings and structures, ensuring functionality, safety, and aesthetics in our physical environment.
How to Improve Carpentry Skills
To improve your carpentry skills, focus on the following steps:
Practice Regularly: Consistency is key. Regular practice helps refine your skills and improve precision. Start with simple projects and gradually tackle more complex ones.
Study Carpentry Basics: Understand the foundational knowledge of carpentry, including types of wood, basic carpentry tools, and techniques. Resources like Fine Woodworking offer in-depth insights.
Learn from Experts: Attend workshops or watch online tutorials from experienced carpenters. Platforms like YouTube have numerous channels dedicated to carpentry skills.
Safety First: Always prioritize safety by wearing appropriate gear and following safety protocols. Familiarize yourself with safety practices from OSHA.
Use Quality Tools: Invest in high-quality tools and maintain them well. Proper tools can significantly improve the quality of your work.
Join a Community: Engage with other carpenters through forums or local clubs. Websites like Woodworking Talk provide platforms for discussion and advice.
Take on Challenges: Don’t shy away from challenging projects. They can stimulate learning and skill advancement.
Accept Feedback: Constructive criticism is invaluable. Listen to feedback from more experienced carpenters and use it to improve your work.
By following these steps and dedicating time to your craft, you'll see a significant improvement in your carpentry skills.
How to Display Carpentry Skills on Your Resume
3. Plumbing
Plumbing is the skilled trade focused on the installation, maintenance, and repair of piping systems, fixtures, and equipment used for water distribution, waste disposal, and heating in residential and commercial buildings.
Why It's Important
Plumbing is crucial for ensuring the safe and efficient distribution of water for drinking, heating, washing, and waste removal, significantly contributing to public health, sanitation, and overall quality of life in homes and communities.
How to Improve Plumbing Skills
Improving plumbing skills involves continuous learning and hands-on experience. Here are concise steps to enhance your plumbing expertise:
Stay Updated: Regularly read industry publications and online resources like Plumbing & Mechanical to keep abreast of the latest technologies and methods.
Certifications: Obtain certifications from recognized bodies such as the Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors Association (PHCC) to validate your skills and knowledge.
Hands-on Practice: Gain practical experience through apprenticeships or working under experienced plumbers. Real-world problems sharpen problem-solving skills.
Use Quality Tools: Invest in high-quality tools and learn to use them efficiently. Familiarize yourself with the latest plumbing tools and technologies.
Safety First: Always prioritize safety by following guidelines and wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE). Understanding OSHA standards can be crucial, visit OSHA for more information.
Network: Join forums and social media groups like Reddit’s Plumbing Community to exchange knowledge with peers.
Continuous Education: Consider taking courses on platforms like Udemy or Alison for both fundamental and advanced plumbing techniques.
Soft Skills: Develop customer service and business management skills, essential for those aiming to run their own plumbing business.
By following these steps, you'll progressively enhance your plumbing skills, stay competitive in the field, and meet the evolving demands of the industry.
How to Display Plumbing Skills on Your Resume
4. Electrical (NEC)
The National Electrical Code (NEC) is a set of standards and regulations designed to ensure electrical safety in residential, commercial, and industrial installations. It provides guidelines for electrical wiring, equipment, and systems to protect people and property from electrical hazards. In the context of skilled trades and manual labor, it serves as a critical reference for electricians and other professionals to ensure their work meets legal safety requirements.
Why It's Important
The National Electrical Code (NEC) is crucial in skilled trades and manual labor because it sets the standard for safe electrical design, installation, and inspection, preventing hazards such as fires and electrocutions. This ensures worker safety and efficiency in electrical systems.
How to Improve Electrical (NEC) Skills
Improving your electrical skills, particularly in relation to the National Electrical Code (NEC), is essential for anyone in the skilled trades and manual labor sectors. Here are concise steps to enhance your NEC knowledge:
Study the NEC Handbook: Familiarize yourself with the latest edition of the NEC Handbook. It's the primary source of information and updates on electrical standards.
Take Online Courses: Enroll in accredited online courses that focus on NEC standards. This provides flexibility and access to comprehensive learning materials.
Participate in Workshops: Hands-on workshops offer practical experience. Look for NEC workshops in your area that are recognized by professional bodies.
Use Practice Exams: Test your knowledge with NEC practice exams. Regular testing helps identify areas needing improvement.
Join Professional Forums: Engage with communities and forums such as Mike Holt's Forum where you can discuss NEC topics, share experiences, and seek advice from experienced professionals.
Stay Updated: Electrical codes and standards evolve. Subscribe to newsletters from authoritative sites like the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) to stay informed about the latest changes and interpretations.
By following these steps, you'll enhance your NEC knowledge and skills, thereby improving your professionalism and competency in the electrical field.
How to Display Electrical (NEC) Skills on Your Resume
5. HVAC (EPA Certification)
HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) EPA Certification is a professional credential required for technicians in the skilled trades who handle refrigerants. It ensures they understand environmental regulations and can safely install, maintain, and repair HVAC systems.
Why It's Important
HVAC EPA Certification is crucial in skilled trades and manual labor because it ensures technicians are qualified in handling refrigerants safely and in compliance with environmental laws, thereby protecting the environment and public health while maintaining system efficiency and reliability.
How to Improve HVAC (EPA Certification) Skills
To improve HVAC skills and obtain EPA Certification, follow these concise steps:
Study the Basics: Begin with a strong foundation in HVAC fundamentals. Websites like HVAC Excellence offer resources to understand the basics.
Enroll in an EPA 608 Certification Course: This is crucial for anyone handling refrigerants. Find a course at a local trade school or online. EPA's Official Site provides details on certification types.
Gain Hands-On Experience: Practical experience is essential. Seek apprenticeships or entry-level positions. Websites like Apprenticeship.gov can help find opportunities.
Stay Updated with Continuing Education: HVAC technology evolves, so ongoing learning is critical. ASHRAE offers courses and resources for advanced learning.
Join Professional Networks: Engage with professional HVAC communities for support and opportunities. ACCA is a great place to start.
By following these steps and utilizing the provided resources, you'll be on your way to improving your HVAC skills and successfully obtaining EPA Certification.
How to Display HVAC (EPA Certification) Skills on Your Resume
6. Masonry
Masonry is a skilled trade that involves the construction, repair, and maintenance of structures using bricks, stones, concrete blocks, and other durable materials. Masons use these materials to build walls, foundations, fireplaces, and other architectural elements, employing techniques that ensure structural integrity and aesthetic appeal.
Why It's Important
Masonry is crucial in skilled trades and manual labor because it provides durable, fire-resistant, and aesthetically versatile construction options for buildings, bridges, and other structures, ensuring long-lasting and sustainable infrastructure.
How to Improve Masonry Skills
Improving masonry skills involves a combination of practice, learning new techniques, and understanding the materials. Here’s a concise guide:
Continuous Practice: Regularly work on different projects to enhance your skills. Practice not only perfects your technique but also increases your speed and efficiency.
Educational Resources: Utilize online platforms and local workshops to learn. Websites like Fine Homebuilding and The Masonry Society offer tutorials and courses.
Understanding Materials: Deepen your knowledge of various masonry materials (brick, stone, concrete blocks) by reading articles and books. Knowing their properties can help you choose the right material for each project.
Use Quality Tools: Invest in high-quality masonry tools and maintain them well. Proper tools can significantly improve the quality of your work.
Join a Trade Association: Becoming a member of trade associations like Masonry Contractors Association of America (MCAA) provides access to resources, training, and networking opportunities.
Safety Training: Prioritize safety by staying updated with the latest safety practices and guidelines. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) offers resources and training for construction safety.
Feedback and Critique: Seek feedback from experienced masons and be open to critique. Learning from mistakes and successes is crucial for improvement.
Combining these steps will gradually enhance your masonry skills, making you a more proficient and knowledgeable mason.
How to Display Masonry Skills on Your Resume
7. Machining (CNC)
Machining, specifically CNC (Computer Numerical Control), is a skilled trades process where computer programming is used to control precision tools and machinery to cut, shape, and finish materials such as metal and plastic into specific designs or parts. This automation allows for high accuracy, repeatability, and efficiency in manufacturing.
Why It's Important
Machining, particularly CNC (Computer Numerical Control), is crucial in skilled trades and manual labor because it enables the precise and efficient production of complex parts and components. This technology enhances productivity, ensures high levels of accuracy and consistency, and reduces the potential for human error, making it indispensable in modern manufacturing and engineering projects.
How to Improve Machining (CNC) Skills
Improving CNC machining efficiency and quality involves adopting best practices and leveraging technology advancements. Here are concise strategies:
Optimize Tool Paths: Use software like Mastercam or Fusion 360 to create efficient tool paths that reduce machining time and tool wear.
Tool Selection and Care: Choose the right tools for the material and operation. Regularly inspect and maintain tools to ensure sharpness and precision. Sandvik Coromant offers a wide range of high-quality tools and maintenance tips.
Material Preparation: Pre-process materials to ensure they are clean, and free of defects. This preparation can improve machining accuracy and finish.
Proper Machine Maintenance: Regularly maintain your CNC machine to ensure it operates at peak efficiency. Follow the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule and guidelines.
Use of CAD/CAM Software: Leverage CAD/CAM software to improve design accuracy and ease the programming process, leading to more efficient machining strategies.
Training and Education: Continuously update skills and knowledge in CNC machining. Platforms like Tooling U-SME offer courses that cover the latest in manufacturing technologies and techniques.
Implement Lean Manufacturing: Adopt lean manufacturing principles to reduce waste and improve productivity in your CNC machining processes.
Quality Control Measures: Use precision measurement tools and software to monitor and control the quality of machined parts. Regularly calibrating measuring instruments ensures accuracy.
Workflow Optimization: Analyze and optimize your workflow to reduce idle times and bottlenecks. Techniques such as 5S methodology can help organize the workspace for efficiency.
Automation: Consider integrating automation solutions like robotic arms or pallet changers to increase machine utilization and reduce manual labor.
By focusing on these areas, CNC machining processes can be significantly improved for better efficiency, accuracy, and product quality.
How to Display Machining (CNC) Skills on Your Resume
8. Painting (Spray Techniques)
Painting (Spray Techniques) in skilled trades and manual labor refers to the method of applying paint, varnish, ink, or other coatings onto a surface using a spray gun. This technique allows for even, fast coverage over large areas or complex shapes, and is commonly used in automotive, furniture, and construction industries for its efficiency and finish quality.
Why It's Important
Painting using spray techniques is important in skilled trades and manual labor because it ensures a uniform, high-quality finish over large or complex surfaces efficiently, enhancing durability and aesthetics while saving time and reducing material waste.
How to Improve Painting (Spray Techniques) Skills
Improving spray painting techniques in skilled trades and manual labor involves practice, understanding the equipment, and mastering the application methods. Here are concise tips to enhance your skills:
Understand Your Equipment: Familiarize yourself with your spray gun and its adjustments. Different nozzles and pressure settings can affect the paint application. Spray Gun Adjustment Guide.
Proper Surface Preparation: Ensure the surface is clean, dry, and primed if necessary. Proper preparation can significantly impact the final outcome. Surface Preparation Techniques.
Optimal Distance and Angle: Hold the spray gun at a consistent distance (typically 6-8 inches) and angle (90 degrees) to the surface for even coverage. Adjust your technique for complex shapes. Spray Technique Basics.
Even Motion: Use a steady, continuous motion, overlapping each pass by about 50% to avoid drips and ensure uniform coverage. Effective Spray Patterns.
Control Paint Thickness: Apply multiple thin coats instead of one thick coat. This prevents runs and ensures the paint dries uniformly. Paint Application Tips.
Practice and Experiment: Regular practice on scrap materials can help refine your technique. Experiment with different settings and methods to find what works best. Practice Techniques.
Health and Safety: Always wear appropriate protective gear, such as masks and gloves, and ensure good ventilation in your work area. Safety Guidelines.
By focusing on these areas and seeking continuous improvement through practice and education, you can enhance your spray painting technique in skilled trades and manual labor.
How to Display Painting (Spray Techniques) Skills on Your Resume
9. Forklift Operation
Forklift operation involves maneuvering a powered industrial truck equipped with a mast and an elevating load carriage to lift, transport, and stack materials in warehouses, construction sites, and manufacturing environments. It requires skill, safety training, and adherence to operational protocols.
Why It's Important
Forklift operation is crucial in skilled trades and manual labor as it significantly enhances efficiency and safety in the handling, moving, and storage of heavy or bulky materials, thus optimizing workflow and minimizing workplace accidents.
How to Improve Forklift Operation Skills
Improving forklift operation in skilled trades and manual labor environments involves enhancing safety, efficiency, and operator proficiency. Here’s a concise guide:
Comprehensive Training: Ensure all operators undergo thorough forklift training that covers both practical and theoretical aspects, following OSHA guidelines.
Regular Maintenance: Implement a routine maintenance schedule to keep forklifts in optimal condition, reducing downtime and accidents.
Safety First: Enforce strict adherence to safety protocols, including proper load handling, speed limits, and pedestrian awareness.
Ergonomics: Modify forklifts to enhance operator comfort, reducing fatigue and increasing productivity.
Technology Utilization: Leverage technology like telematics systems for real-time monitoring of forklift operations, improving efficiency and safety.
Continuous Improvement: Foster a culture of continuous improvement with regular operator feedback and training updates, ensuring practices evolve with new safety standards and technologies.
By focusing on these key areas, you can significantly improve forklift operations in skilled trades and manual labor settings.
How to Display Forklift Operation Skills on Your Resume
10. Blueprint Reading
Blueprint reading in the context of skilled trades and manual labor involves interpreting detailed technical drawings and plans used in construction, manufacturing, and engineering. These blueprints convey the specifications, dimensions, materials, and procedures necessary to build, assemble, or repair structures, machines, and other physical projects accurately and efficiently.
Why It's Important
Blueprint reading is crucial in skilled trades and manual labor as it enables workers to understand detailed construction plans, specifications, and symbols, ensuring accurate construction, installation, and maintenance of various projects according to design intentions, thus maintaining safety, efficiency, and quality standards.
How to Improve Blueprint Reading Skills
Improving blueprint reading in skilled trades and manual labor involves developing a comprehensive understanding of symbols, dimensions, and notations used in technical drawings. Here are concise steps and resources:
Familiarize with Basic Symbols: Start by learning the common symbols for materials, electrical components, and plumbing fixtures. The National Institute of Building Sciences offers resources on standard symbols.
Understand Scale and Dimensions: Practice reading and converting scales to understand the real dimensions of structures or components. EngineerSupply provides tutorials on reading scales on blueprints.
Study Different Types of Blueprints: Explore architectural, structural, mechanical, and electrical blueprints to understand their unique aspects. The Blueprint Reading Course by the Home Builders Institute is a great starting point.
Practice Interpreting Specifications: Specifications detail materials and methods. Reading them in conjunction with blueprints increases comprehension. Construction Specifications Institute (CSI) offers resources on understanding construction documentation.
Take a Course or Workshop: Enroll in a blueprint reading course specific to your trade. Community colleges and trade schools often offer relevant courses. Online platforms like Udemy also have industry-specific blueprint reading courses.
Use Online Resources and Apps: Websites like Blueprint Reading Basics provide foundational knowledge. Apps like SmartDraw can help visualize and practice blueprint reading skills.
Remember, practice and real-world application are crucial. Start with simple blueprints and gradually progress to more complex drawings as your understanding deepens.
How to Display Blueprint Reading Skills on Your Resume
11. Safety Compliance (OSHA)
Safety Compliance, particularly in the context of OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) for Skilled Trades & Manual Labor, involves adhering to established health and safety standards and regulations to protect workers from job-related injuries and hazards. It includes proper training, use of protective gear, and following protocols for safe operations.
Why It's Important
Safety compliance, particularly with OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) standards, is crucial in skilled trades and manual labor to prevent workplace injuries and fatalities, ensure a safe working environment, and protect workers from health hazards. Compliance helps avoid costly penalties and enhances productivity by maintaining a healthy workforce.
How to Improve Safety Compliance (OSHA) Skills
Improving safety compliance with OSHA standards in the skilled trades and manual labor sectors involves a few key steps:
Regular Training: Ensure all workers receive ongoing safety training specific to their trade. This includes understanding the potential hazards and the proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
Hazard Identification: Conduct regular workplace hazard assessments to identify potential risks. Implement measures to mitigate these risks.
Safety Policies: Develop and enforce clear safety policies that comply with OSHA regulations. Make sure these policies are understood and followed by all employees.
Emergency Preparedness: Have a solid emergency action plan in place. This includes training employees on how to respond to accidents and emergencies.
Equipment Maintenance: Ensure all tools and machinery are properly maintained and safe to use. Regular inspections should be conducted to identify and correct potential issues.
Open Communication: Encourage open communication about safety concerns. Workers should feel comfortable reporting hazards without fear of retaliation.
Use of OSHA Resources: Utilize the OSHA Consultation Services for free advice on improving workplace safety and compliance.
By prioritizing these areas, employers can significantly improve safety compliance in skilled trades and manual labor, reducing the risk of accidents and ensuring a healthier workplace.
How to Display Safety Compliance (OSHA) Skills on Your Resume
12. Soldering (IPC Certification)
Soldering (IPC Certification) refers to a recognized certification in the skilled trades and manual labor sectors, focusing on the process of joining metal parts using a filler metal (solder). This certification ensures that individuals possess the knowledge and skills to perform soldering tasks according to the standards set by the IPC Association Connecting Electronics Industries, emphasizing quality, safety, and reliability in electronic assemblies and connections.
Why It's Important
Soldering with IPC Certification ensures high-quality, reliable electrical connections, essential for safety and functionality in electronics. It validates a technician's proficiency, aligning with industry standards and enhancing job prospects in skilled trades and manual labor sectors.
How to Improve Soldering (IPC Certification) Skills
Improving your soldering skills, especially to meet IPC Certification standards, involves a combination of theoretical learning and practical application. Follow these concise steps:
Understand IPC Standards: Begin with a thorough understanding of the IPC standards (IPC-A-610, J-STD-001, etc.) which are crucial for quality soldering in electronics manufacturing. IPC Standards.
Get the Right Tools: Ensure you have the correct soldering equipment and materials that meet industry standards. High-quality solder, soldering iron with adjustable temperature, and proper tip are essential. Guide to Soldering Irons.
Practice Technique: Perfect your technique by practicing regularly. Focus on soldering joint quality, including proper wetting, avoiding cold solder joints, and ensuring no bridges form between adjacent pads. Soldering Techniques.
Learn from Mistakes: Use a jeweler's loupe or a microscope to inspect your solder joints and learn from any mistakes. Understanding what went wrong will guide you in improving your skills.
IPC Certification Courses: Enroll in IPC certification courses (like IPC-A-610 or J-STD-001 Certification) for professional training and certification. These courses offer both theory and practical skills directly applicable to your work. IPC Certification and Training.
Continuous Learning: Stay updated with new soldering technologies and IPC standards revisions by participating in workshops, webinars, and continuous education programs.
Combining these steps with dedication and practice will significantly improve your soldering skills, ensuring they meet the IPC Certification standards required for skilled trades and manual labor in electronics manufacturing.
How to Display Soldering (IPC Certification) Skills on Your Resume
