Skilled Trades offers a strong and growing career path in Ventura County. Employers are actively looking for new talent especially in construction and manufacturing. High-demand careers across California include electricians, HVAC technicians, and plumbers. Many of these fields offer paid apprenticeships for our OUHSD high school graduates. Starting around $19 to 22 per hour, with average annual salaries of about $51,667—making skilled trades a practical and rewarding option right after graduation.