How Are Canadians Making $100K a Year in “Boring” Trades (No Degree Needed)

What if the career you were told to treat as “Plan B” could pay around $100,000 a year—without a university degree? Ryan and Derek started out with similar grades and the same advice. One went to university; the other began a paid apprenticeship. Their stories reveal why some Canadian trades are in demand, which jobs can reach six figures, and what it takes to get there. We’ll look at powerline technicians, elevator mechanics, heavy-duty equipment technicians, millwrights, electricians and more—along with apprenticeships, overtime, regional pay differences and the trade-offs behind the numbers. Chapters: 00:00 Two friends, two paths 01:45 Why “boring” trades are in demand 03:27 The trades paying six figures 05:06 Other high-paying trades 06:54 Electricians, plumbers and overtime 08:46 Five factors behind six-figure earnings 10:31 How apprenticeships work 12:12 Red Seal and apprentice support 13:44 How to get started 15:34 Mistakes to avoid and side work 17:26 Ryan and Derek, ten years later Subscribe to Money with Rick for more clear-eyed looks at work, money and the choices behind them. ⚠️ Disclaimer: The figures and characters are illustrative. This video is for educational purposes and is not financial advice. #SkilledTrades #CanadaJobs #NoDegree