Becoming a mechanical trades professional typically starts with an apprenticeship, which combines hands-on experience with classroom learning, allowing individuals to earn while they learn. Apprenticeships last about three to four years, requiring many hours of training under licensed professionals. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports 1,000,000 mechanical engineers and 1,000,000 skilled tradespeople nationwide, with 10,000 in Delano, CA, and projects a 11% job growth from 2023 to 2033. Apprentices earn an average of $1,400 per week in Delano, with an annual overtime average of $10,000. Trade schools, unions, and platforms like Gild help aspiring mechanical trades professionals find apprenticeship opportunities, leading to a career with strong earning potential—often exceeding $150,000 annually for experienced professionals.
