Careers in this pathway are related to technologies necessary to design, develop, install, and maintain physical systems such as buildings, structures, machines and equipment. These include engineering, manufacturing, construction and related technologies.

If you’re mechanically inclined and practical, this field may interest you. If you’d enjoy painting a house, repairing a car or wiring electrical circuits, consider this career pathway.

Salary Range (Kalamazoo/Portage)

Automotive Service Technician

$19,360 - $30,050

HVAC Mechanics & Installers

$29,530 - $72,820

Industrial Machinery Mechanic

$29,370 - $78,500

Job Outlook

Manufacturing employers are desperate for skilled workers. Unlike many other entry-level employment opportunities, manufacturing employers continue to offer on-the-job training, apprenticeships, and payment for continued education and career advancement. There are many stable, long-term employment opportunities in the industrial trades field.

Salary information comes from CareerOneStop.org, sponsored by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration.