The meeting covered 12 lucrative tech jobs within skilled trades that do not require a four-year degree, focusing on how AI is transforming traditional roles and creating new opportunities.
For each career, salary ranges, industry demand, required education or certifications, and advancement potential (including business ownership) were discussed.
The discussion emphasized accessible entry paths, rapid career growth, and the importance of practical, hands-on skills in the AI-powered job market.
Action Items
No specific tasks or follow-ups were assigned during this presentation.
Tech-Focused Trade Careers Overview
1. Autonomous Vehicle Technician
Works with sensors, LIDAR, radar, drive-by-wire, and AI systems in self-driving vehicles.
Increasing demand as cities launch autonomous fleets; salaries range from $60K to $150K.
Entry typically via vocational school, automotive tech, or associate degree plus electronics/diagnostics skills.
Pathway from technician to company ownership highlighted.
2. Commercial Drone Pilot
Flies AI-enabled drones for agriculture, utilities, logistics, real estate, and delivery services.
Full-time pilots earn $80K–$100K; sector experiencing rapid growth.
Requires FAA remote pilot certificate (part 107); career path may start with side jobs and scale up.
3. Robotics & Automation Technician
Maintains and repairs robots in warehouses, factories, and smart manufacturing.
Entry-level salaries around $65K, with significant growth prospects.
Entry requires a high school diploma plus certificate or associate degree in robotics/mechatronics; ongoing certifications accelerate advancement.
4. Data Center/AI Infrastructure Technician
Services servers and infrastructure for AI/data centers, crucial for cloud and AI companies.
Starting salaries $70K–$75K, with potential for six-figure incomes.
Most have an associate degree in IT/networking/electronics, or certifications (CompTIA A+/Server+); military IT experience is also valued.
5. Building Automation Systems Technician
Installs and maintains AI-powered HVAC, lighting, and security systems in smart buildings.
Salaries range from $60K–$100K+ depending on building size and specialization.
Entry often from electrician or HVAC background, upgraded via certificates or manufacturer trainings.
6. IoT Systems Technician
Installs, calibrates, and troubleshoots smart sensors in cities, factories, and farms.
Base salary is $82K+, potentially reaching $100K–$250K with specialization.
Requires a two-year degree in electronics/networking; prior IT/electrical experience beneficial.
7. Medical Equipment Technician
Calibrates and services AI-integrated medical devices, supporting critical healthcare operations.
Entry salary ~$62K; experienced techs earn up to $100K+.
Associate degree in biomedical technology is common; ongoing certification and training required.
8. Robotic Welding Technician
Programs and maintains robotic welding arms in manufacturing and construction.
Entry salaries start at $60K–$95K+, with further growth via specialization.
Traditional welders and those with industrial robotics training easily transition to this role.
9. Predictive Maintenance Technician
Uses AI-powered diagnostics to preemptively service equipment in sectors such as manufacturing, mining, and utilities.
Entry-level pay $75K–$95K, especially in high-growth industries.
Trade school or apprenticeship in mechanical/electrical maintenance plus certifications in vibration analysis or reliability.
10. Wind Turbine Technician
Installs and maintains AI-driven wind energy systems; less manual climbing due to remote monitoring.
Entry salaries $70K; experienced techs can earn $150K–$250K.
Requires 1–2 year technical training in wind energy/maintenance, with additional safety certifications.
11. Telecommunications Tower Technician
Installs and services towers and equipment for 5G/smart city infrastructure.
Earnings start at $75K–$90K, with growth tied to certification.
High school diploma plus company training/safety courses required. On-the-job learning is typical.