Top High Paying Trades in Tennessee: Which Trade Jobs Earn the Most?

Anyone paying attention to the job market in Tennessee lately knows that skilled trades aren't what they used to be. Gone are the days when picking a trade was just “settling.” In fact, the paychecks some skilled workers are cashing these days can make you wonder why so many people are still pushing for a traditional four-year college degree. Let’s face it, a six-figure salary with no soul-crushing student loans sounds pretty good. But out of all the hands-on jobs you could choose, which trade holds the title for highest paying in Tennessee? And what does it really take to snag those top positions?

What’s the Highest Paying Trade in Tennessee Right Now?

One trade stands out consistently in terms of income: elevator installers and repairers. Surprised? Most people associate trades with stereotypical roles like plumbers or electricians (and yes, they earn solid money too), but elevator installation is a bit of a hidden gem. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), elevator installers in Tennessee pull in a median annual salary of about $102,000 as of 2024. That smashes through the state’s average wage, and even edges out a lot of white-collar jobs.

Why does this trade pay so well? First, you need specialized skills and safety certifications—repairing or installing lifts, escalators, and moving walkways is no small task. Work comes with unusual hours and real physical risk, but for those willing to get trained, there’s low unemployment and decent job security.

But how do these earnings compare to other trades? Here’s a quick look (data taken from the Tennessee Department of Labor and BLS 2024):

The hierarchy here isn’t likely to shift any time soon—the boom in commercial and residential construction across Nashville, Memphis, and Chattanooga means plenty of tall buildings and, you guessed it, elevators that need maintaining. Also, the combination of technical complexity, licensing requirements, and the literal danger factor means employers are ready to pay top dollar for experienced hands.

So, if you’re aiming for that fat paycheck, elevator installer is king. But it’s not like the runners-up are scraping by—powerline workers, boilermakers, and electricians all make wages that can support a comfortable lifestyle, especially in lower-cost regions of Tennessee. Still, knowing what it takes to get into these trades (and which trade schools are best) can make all the difference.

How to Get Into the Highest Paying Trade Jobs in Tennessee

The path to a six-figure skilled trade career isn’t a mystery, but it’s certainly not a cakewalk either. If elevator repair or installation is on your radar, you’ll need targeted training, a willingness to climb (sometimes literally), and certification. Here’s a step-by-step look at how to break in:

• High school diploma or GED: Most employers won’t even consider an application without this minimum.
• Technical school/apprenticeship: A formal apprenticeship, often organized through unions or local trade organizations, is the key entry point. Apprenticeships usually last 4 years and combine paid on-the-job training with classroom instruction.
• Licensing and exams: Tennessee requires licensing for elevator mechanics, which can mean background checks, drug screening, and passing technical exams.
• Physical fitness & safety: You’ll be climbing, lifting, working in tight spaces, and handling electrical systems. Strong nerves and decent physical condition matter.
• Niche skills: Beyond the basics, specialties like escalator repair, dumbwaiter systems, or advanced hydraulics can make you even more valuable—and better paid.

Apprenticeships are highly competitive because they pay well from the start (average apprentice wage for elevator repair in TN is just over $44,000, not too shabby for a trainee). Employers love folks with math chops, mechanical reasoning, and, it has to be said, a certain tolerance for heights. Are you scared of elevators breaking down when you’re inside? This probably isn’t your career.

Powerline workers and boilermakers follow a similar path: formal training, often via union apprenticeships; rigorous safety training (one mistake can literally be fatal); and plenty of ongoing certifications. Most skilled trade schools in Memphis, Nashville, and Knoxville offer these programs. Be choosy—look for programs with high job placement rates and modern training equipment.

If you’d rather avoid high voltage or dangling over elevator shafts, electrician and plumber roles are always hiring, with slightly less danger and just as much demand. The pay is still above state average, especially as you build experience or earn master-level certifications. Plumbers often have some of the best job security, since busted pipes don’t care about recessions or economic downtime. Electricians, meanwhile, are needed on almost every construction site and for residential work, and they regularly pivot into lucrative specialised areas: industrial control systems, green energy, or factory automation.

If you’re itching to earn while you learn, remember that trade apprenticeships are hands-on from day one, with most programs paying between 40-60% of a journeyman’s wage to start, rising each year as you pass exams and gain skills. Compare that to an average Tennessee university grad, who finished 2024 with an average of $34,000 debt and a starting salary around $45,000—food for thought when plotting your own course.

One thing to keep an eye on: the demand for trade jobs in Tennessee is not expected to slow down. In fact, new data shows that 25% of Tennessee's skilled workforce will hit retirement age within five years. Who’s going to fill those gaps? If you’re ready to get qualified, you could step right into jobs others are leaving behind—and command premium wages doing it.

Facts, Tips, and Unexpected Upsides when Pursuing High-Paying Trades

There’s a lot more to picking a trade than just chasing the biggest payday, but knowing all the facts makes a smart decision a whole lot easier. For starters, a strong majority of elevator installers and powerline technicians in Tennessee report high job satisfaction—not just because of the pay, but also because every day brings something new. There’s a sense of tangible accomplishment when you fix a complex piece of gear that few people even understand, and you can literally see the results of your efforts.

Here are some practical tips if you want to stand out and earn more in Tennessee’s top trades:

• Stay up-to-date with technology. Today’s elevator systems have advanced electronics that weren’t even on the market ten years ago. Getting training in digital diagnostics or smart building systems is a big plus.
• Network inside the industry. Joining professional organizations, attending trade shows in Tennessee (like the annual Tennessee Construction Career Days), and connecting with experienced pros can sometimes lead to apprenticeship opportunities that never go public.
• Develop soft skills too. Effective communication, reliability, and customer service can turn a one-off job into steady, reliable contracts—especially if you start your own business down the line.
• Don’t ignore health and safety. Yes, the pay is great, but injured workers don’t take home their full earnings. Prioritize good habits from day one, and always stay current on required safety certifications.
• If you’re considering moving to chase higher pay, know the hotspots. Nashville and Memphis lead the state in construction projects and demand for skilled trade workers, but rising suburban growth across Franklin, Murfreesboro, and Knoxville is shifting where opportunities arise.

If you just want the highest paying trade in TN, it’s elevator installer by a clear margin. But if you want a career that can pay you well and won’t burn you out, be honest with yourself about your abilities and priorities. The highest paying trade in TN brings generous rewards, but there’s no shame in picking a slightly less risky path with just as much demand.

One last shocker: skilled trades aren’t just for guys in their twenties. Tennessee has seen a 19% increase in women entering trade apprenticeships since 2021, and more folks over 30 are retraining for hands-on careers than ever before. If you’re looking for a second chance or a more practical route to financial independence, don’t discount what the trades can offer. Success stories are everywhere—and you could write the next one.