Earn While You Learn in a High-Wage, High-Demand Job with Apprenticeship Training

by Jeremy Robertson

May 29, 2026

Not interested in going to college? Do you enjoy learning in a hands-on environment while earning money at the same time? An apprenticeship might be a great training opportunity for you.

But how do you decide which apprenticeship program to pursue? Some things to consider when you are contemplating career choices are whether there will likely be job openings available once you complete your training and whether the job pays enough to support your needs. We can help you with that.

The table shown here includes those occupations where paid apprenticeships are offered to help you learn the skills of the job. This list only includes those that are considered to be in high demand and offer high wages within Oregon statewide. There are other apprenticeships available, but they may not be considered high-wage and high-demand jobs.

High-Wage, High-Demand Jobs With Apprenticeship Training
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Job Title Total Projected Openings 2024-2034 2025 Median Annual Wage
Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers 29,838 $62,650
Carpenters 18,889 $62,962
Electricians 11,095 $100,194
Industrial Machinery Mechanics 7,352 $73,362
Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters 6,455 $95,846
Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers 5,889 $60,112
Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators 5,140 $70,200
Bus and Truck Mechanics and Diesel Engine Specialists 4,173 $64,355
Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers 4,031 $64,418
Machinists 3,601 $63,752
Roofers 3,562 $57,990
Sheet Metal Workers 2,878 $67,101
Electrical Engineers 2,042 $112,632
Cement Masons and Concrete Finishers 2,030 $64,126
Tree Trimmers and Pruners 2,020 $65,104
Drywall and Ceiling Tile Installers 1,749 $60,195
Tile and Stone Setters 1,417 $55,973
Electrical Power-Line Installers and Repairers 1,142 $126,506
Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians 959 $83,762
Glaziers 665 $65,104
 

For more information about apprenticeship opportunities in Oregon, visit the apprenticeship website of the Oregon Bureau of Labor and Industries.


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