When you think of a career in the skilled trades, what comes to mind? For many, the image isn’t flattering: dirty, physically exhausting work for low pay, often regarded as a fallback option for those who couldn’t “make it” elsewhere. These stereotypes are not only outdated—they’re outright wrong. And yet, they persist, discouraging countless individuals, including many here in Ontario, from considering the trades as a viable and rewarding career path.

At Trade Smart College, we hear these myths repeated time and again, both by potential students and their families. These misconceptions don’t just mislead—they actively deter people from exploring opportunities that could lead to fulfilling, lucrative, and stable careers. Let’s tackle four of the most common myths about the skilled trades and explore how they inhibit people from stepping into this vital industry.

Myth #1: The Trades Are a “Plan B” for Those Who Struggle Academically

One of the most damaging myths about the trades is that they’re only for people who didn’t excel in school or who lack other career options. This couldn’t be further from the truth. Skilled trades require a high level of intelligence, problem-solving ability, and technical expertise. Electricians, for example, must understand complex circuitry and safety codes, while welders need precision and a deep understanding of materials science.

In Ontario, where trades are heavily regulated, obtaining a Certificate of Qualification in a compulsory trade requires rigorous classroom training combined with practical apprenticeship hours. These programs demand focus, discipline, and adaptability—traits that are far from indicative of academic failure. By perpetuating this myth, we risk undervaluing the intelligence and skills required to succeed in the trades, deterring talented individuals who would excel in these fields.

Myth #2: Trades Are Low-Paying, Dead-End Jobs

Another pervasive myth is that trades jobs don’t pay well or offer long-term career prospects. The reality is quite the opposite. Many trades careers provide excellent earning potential, often surpassing the salaries of university-educated professionals. For example, experienced electricians, plumbers, and HVAC technicians in Ontario regularly earn six-figure incomes, particularly when working overtime or running their own businesses.

Moreover, trades careers offer opportunities for advancement and specialization. Whether it’s becoming a master tradesperson, a project manager, or even starting your own company, the possibilities are vast. This myth not only discourages individuals from considering trades but also blinds them to the financial security and career satisfaction these professions can provide.

Myth #3: Trades Are Physically Demanding, Dirty, and Dangerous

Many people assume that trades jobs are nothing but backbreaking labour in grimy, unsafe conditions. While it’s true that some trades require physical effort and may involve outdoor work, this myth oversimplifies the reality of modern trades careers. In Ontario, workplace safety regulations are among the most stringent in the world, ensuring that tradespeople have access to proper training and equipment to perform their jobs safely.

While it is true that many trades have a physical element to them, technique and efficiency are far more important than brute strength. Modern technology, including advanced tools and machinery, has transformed the nature of skilled trades, making them more efficient, precise, and accessible to people of all physical abilities.

Myth #4: The Trades Are a Man’s World

The belief that the skilled trades are only for men is not just outdated—it’s harmful. Women remain underrepresented in the trades, but that doesn’t mean they don’t belong. In fact, women are increasingly breaking into these fields and excelling. At Trade Smart College, we have recently hosted two “Women in the Trades Nights”, bringing together tradeswomen and local politicians to talk about how to actively encourage more women to explore trades careers.

Women bring diverse perspectives and skills to the trades, making the entire industry stronger. Employers are also recognizing the benefits of a more inclusive workforce, making strides to create welcoming workplaces for women in traditionally male-dominated fields. Dispelling this myth is critical not only for gender equity but also for addressing the labour shortage by tapping into a broader pool of talent.

Key Points

• The Trades Are Not a “Plan B”: Skilled trades require intelligence, technical expertise, and problem-solving, debunking the myth that they’re for underachievers.
• Trades Offer Competitive Salaries: Many trades careers provide six-figure earning potential and room for advancement, far from being “dead-end jobs.”
• Modern Trades Are Safe and Accessible: Stringent safety regulations and advanced tools make trades less physically demanding and more inclusive.
• Trades Are for Everyone: Women are thriving in the trades, breaking down gender stereotypes and contributing diverse perspectives to the workforce.

The Bottom Line: Breaking Myths, Building Futures

Misconceptions about the skilled trades create barriers that deter people from pursuing fulfilling, lucrative careers. Whether it’s the belief that trades are for academic underachievers, low-paying, physically taxing, or exclusively male, these myths couldn’t be further from the truth.

At Trade Smart College, we’re dedicated to equipping students with the skills, confidence, and adaptability needed to succeed in the trades while challenging these outdated narratives. By breaking down these myths, we aim to open the doors to opportunities for a new generation of skilled tradespeople, helping to fill critical gaps in Ontario’s workforce.