Denver is one of the best mid-sized cities in the country for skilled trade careers. UCHealth and SCL Health are expanding campuses. The residential construction market has been active for a decade. And the city's tech sector drives data center and commercial construction that keeps electricians and HVAC techs busy year-round. Washington has no income tax, but Colorado makes up for it with strong union wages and a lower cost of living than coastal cities.
Why Denver Is a Strong Trade Job Market
- Construction momentum: Denver's population growth and limited developable land have driven sustained construction market activity. Hospital campuses and commercial towers create consistent work.
- Healthcare growth: UCHealth, SCL Health, and Children's Hospital Colorado are expanding significantly.
- Tech and aerospace: Lockheed Martin, Ball Aerospace, and a growing startup ecosystem drive data center and office construction.
- Active union market: IBEW Local 68 and UA Local 3 (plumbers/pipefitters) serve the Denver metro with top-tier apprenticeship programs.
Most In-Demand Trades in Denver
- Electrician: Journeyman electricians earn $30-$46/hr in Metro Denver.
- Plumber: Licensed plumbers earn $28-$44/hr.
- HVAC Technician: Denver's climate extremes drive strong year-round demand. Average $26-$40/hr.
- Welder: Construction and aerospace manufacturing. $22-$36/hr certified.
- Medical Assisting: Medical assistants earn $20-$26/hr in Denver.
- CDL/Truck Driving: Denver distribution corridor. CDL holders average $22-$28/hr.
Top Trade Schools in Denver
- Emily Griffith Technical College: Downtown Denver. HVAC, welding, automotive, construction, and healthcare programs. Over 100 years serving Denver workers.
- Pickens Technical College: Aurora. Broad vocational programs for the southeast Denver suburbs.
- Community College of Denver: Auraria campus. Technical programs at community college tuition.
- Aims Community College (Greeley): Northern Denver metro market.
- IBEW Local 68 JATC: Free 5-year electrical union apprenticeship in Denver.
How to Pay for Trade School in Denver
- Federal Pell Grant: Up to $7,395/year for eligible students.
- Colorado Opportunity Fund: State stipend reducing community college tuition for CO residents.
- WIOA via Workforce Boulder County / Denver Human Services: Training grants for in-demand careers.
- GI Bill: Most Denver technical college programs are VA-approved.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best trade school in Denver?
Emily Griffith Technical College is the most recognized trade school in Denver, serving the city since 1916. It offers HVAC, welding, automotive, construction, and healthcare programs at accessible tuition with strong employer connections. Pickens Technical College in Aurora is a strong option for southeastern suburbs.
How much do electricians make in Denver?
Journeyman electricians in Denver earn $30-$46/hr. IBEW Local 68 union electricians tend to be at the higher end. Denver's combination of commercial construction, healthcare campus expansion, and data center development keeps electrical demand very high.
Is there a trades shortage in Denver?
Yes. Colorado consistently ranks among the states with the most severe skilled trades shortages. Denver metro employers regularly recruit from out of state for electricians, plumbers, and HVAC techs.
What is Emily Griffith Technical College?
Emily Griffith Technical College is a publicly funded technical college in downtown Denver that has been providing trade and vocational education since 1916. It is one of the most respected technical schools in Colorado with affordable program costs and strong employer relationships throughout the Denver metro.
Can I get free trade school in Denver?
The Colorado Opportunity Fund reduces community college tuition. Pell Grants cover much of the cost at technical schools. WIOA training funds are available for eligible residents. And Emily Griffith has scholarship programs. IBEW apprenticeships are fully free with union wages from day one.
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