Why 2025 is the year to join the trade industry & Key Growth Trends
There is no doubt about it: the trade industry is poised for remarkable growth in 2025. The U.S. Electrical Services market alone reached $158.5 billion in 2023 and is projected to grow at a 5.6 percent compound annual growth rate (CAGR) from 2024 to 2032. According to Global Market Insights, these trends are the result of significant investments in infrastructure and the energy transition process.
With job opportunities for electricians expected to rise steadily, the industry offers long-term stability and rewarding career paths. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics forecasts an 11 percent increase in electrician employment through 2033, which translates to tens of thousands of new jobs in the coming years.
Key trends behind the trade industry growth
Three primary drivers are behind the transformation taking place in the electrical services:
- Electrification of transportation
The growing adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) has increased the need for specialized installations of charging infrastructures across the country. Businesses and communities alike are investing in EV charging systems to meet this demand.
According to Research and Markets, the global market for electric vehicle charging infrastructure was valued at $65.3 billion in 2023 and is expected to reach $452.2 billion by 2030, growing at an impressive CAGR of 31.8 percent during this period.
- Renewable energy integration
Solar, wind, and energy-efficient building systems have become more prevalent. Investments in renewable energy technologies are reducing carbon footprints and creating demand for skilled technicians who can install and maintain these systems.
Consider Acre Distilling in Fort Worth, Texas, a small business that optimized costs by integrating renewable solutions. By partnering with installation providers like Circle L Solar and Siemens along with suppliers such as City Electric Supply (CES), Acre Distilling reduced its operational impact — in large part by embracing sustainable technologies.
“Now that I’ve got a surplus of electricity from my solar panels, I can actually sell it through the electric chargers to people that want to charge their cars,” explained Tony Formby, owner of Acre Distilling.
- Sustainability initiatives
Energy-efficient systems are a growing priority across many industries. Advanced HVAC systems with new, more sustainable refrigerants and lighting retrofits are just some of the projects driving demand in the sector, according to Trane.
Energy-conscious upgrades play an important role in the growth that trade professionals and suppliers can expect.
Preparing the next generation of tradespeople
As the demand for skilled workers grows, training initiatives and educational programs are more critical than ever. Industry partnerships are stepping in to bridge the skills gap and provide hands-on experience to future tradespeople.
Take the Tri-County Apprenticeship Academy (TCAA) for example, where aspiring electricians train using donated materials like wire and splice kits — provided by industry partners like City Electric Supply. Programs like these make sure the trade industry is prepared to meet future challenges.
According to the Harvard Business Review, training should be social, personal, and contextually relevant (i.e., it takes place in a real-world setting). The TCAA meets all of these criteria, which helps future tradespeople prepare for the very work they’ll be doing.
Opportunity and career growth in the trades
The trade industry thrives on the success of its people. Stories like Brandon Bonta’s — who started as a driver at CES Valparaiso and rose to branch manager — highlight how the sector provides real opportunities for career advancement.
“I came into this industry green,” said Bonta. “It’s a great feeling to work for a company that invested in me and gave me this opportunity.”
At the same time, community initiatives reflect the trade sector’s commitment to supporting future leaders. Partnerships with local trade schools and community-focused fundraisers are just the beginning as the industry continues to invest in its workforce.
Join the movement. The trades are evolving, and for those considering a career in the electrical services industry, there has never been a better time to take the leap.
