In light of recent research, it was revealed that the global construction industry will be worth an outstanding US$10.3 trillion by 2020.  Electrical Direct have given us an insight into how tradesmen salaries and entry routes vary around the globe.

Training to be a carpenter

One thing remains the same around the world when training to become a carpenter – on-the-job training is key. To become a carpenter in the UK, Level 1 and 2 NVQ Certificates must be gained in relevant subjects. The most common subjects tend to be Basic Construction, Wood Occupations and Site Carpentry. The highest paid carpenters are those who live in Australia where they earn around $81, 536 (£48, 631) – this is £22,272 more than a qualified carpenter in Germany receives.

The pay of a plumber

Again, hands-on experience and qualifications that prove you can do the job are the most important factors when securing a job as a plumber. To achieve these vocational certificates, the common route to take is an apprenticeship. Plumber salaries vary from country to country and they are as follows:

• UK - £25,000
• America - £36,581
• Australia - £24,284 (in Melbourne, this can rise to £54,633)
• Germany - £42,782
• Japan – £29,835

Electricians around the globe

An electrician living in Australia leads a very different life to an electrician who lives in the UK. Not only is the weather better, but they also bring home more income. Electrician salaries vary in different countries:

In the UK (average salary: £30,500):

• Level 3 National Vocational Qualifications (NVQ) in Electrotechnical Services
• Level 3 NVQ in Installing Electrotechnical System and Equipment
• An NVQ in Electrical Installations is also required if the apprenticeship route is taken

In America (average salary: £41,481):

• A High School Diploma or General Educational Development Exam
• A Foundation in Maths, Science and a vocational course such as Electrics

In Australia (average salary: £48,631):

• A Vocational Education and Training Course (VET) alongside an apprenticeship or traineeship.

In Germany (average salary: £42,782):

• Full apprenticeship training
• Two years on-the-job experience
• A C&G 2391 or 2392 to prove you can install electrical equipment safely

In Japan (average salary: £49,992):

• 61% have high school qualifications
• 1% have less than high school education
• 22% have a bachelor of arts degree

Earnings can vary depending on the region that you live in a country too. For example, in the UK, you will make the most money as an electrician in London with £36,028. Similarly, living in Canberra you will earn on average $22,000 (£10,665) more than an electrician operating in Adelaide. Now that you are fully informed on salaries around the world, you can make an educated decision on where to take your trade…