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 762,600 mechanical engineers nationwide, with 40,670 in South Carolina, and projects a 11% job growth from 2022 to 2032. Apprentices earn an average of $1,190 per week in Gaffney, SC, with an annual overtime average of $4,000. 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 $136,000 annually for experienced professionals.
