Alaska · BLS OEWS May 2025
The highest paying trades in Alaska
Seven skilled trades, ranked by what they actually pay in Alaska. Elevator Installers lead at a $109,910 median, and our 10-year model puts that path $700,882 ahead of the average college route. Every number is BLS data; every trade links to its full state breakdown.
Reviewed by Brad Zemke, third-generation tradesman, 20+ years in the field.
| # | Trade | Median | Per hour | 10-yr edge vs college |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Elevator Installer (national est.) | $109,910 | $52.84/hr | $700,882 |
| 2 | Plumber | $93,920 | $45.15/hr | $520,051 |
| 3 | Electrician | $89,440 | $43.00/hr | $494,823 |
| 4 | Welder | $80,840 | $38.87/hr | $485,985 |
| 5 | HVAC Technician | $77,430 | $37.23/hr | $445,881 |
| 6 | Diesel Mechanic | $75,580 | $36.34/hr | $392,271 |
| 7 | Carpenter | $73,860 | $35.51/hr | $386,265 |
"10-yr edge" = cumulative net earnings advantage over the average bachelor's path after 10 years, per our documented model. Elevator installer pay is real, but union apprenticeship entry is competitive.
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