General Contractor

Plumbers install, maintain, and repair water supply lines, drainage systems, gas lines, and related fixtures in residential, commercial, and industrial buildings. The work involves reading blueprints and building codes, measuring and cutting pipes, assembling and installing pipes and fittings, testing systems for leaks using pressure gauges, and troubleshooting problems that range from simple clogs to complex system failures. Plumbers work in diverse environments—from new construction sites to century-old buildings with outdated systems—requiring them to adapt their approach to each unique situation. The job demands physical stamina for working in cramped spaces, excellent problem-solving abilities for diagnosing issues that aren't immediately visible, and strong customer service skills for explaining technical problems to homeowners. Many plumbers specialize in areas like gas fitting, medical gas systems, fire sprinklers, or green plumbing technologies.

Electricians install, maintain, and repair electrical power, communications, lighting, and control systems in homes, businesses, factories, and other structures. The work encompasses reading technical diagrams and blueprints, installing wiring and electrical components, using testing devices like ohmmeters and voltmeters to check connections, inspecting electrical systems for compliance with codes, and diagnosing malfunctions. Electricians must stay current with evolving electrical codes, which vary by jurisdiction and are updated regularly for safety. The role spans diverse specializations—residential wirers focus on homes, commercial electricians handle office buildings and retail spaces, industrial electricians work with heavy machinery, and lineworkers maintain the power grid. The explosion of smart home technology, EV charging infrastructure, and solar integration has created new specialties requiring electricians to continually update their skills. Work conditions vary from new construction to renovating systems in buildings that may be decades old.

Carpenters construct, install, and repair building frameworks and structures made from wood and other materials. Finish and custom carpenters specialize in detailed work including custom cabinetry, built-in furniture, millwork, trim installation, staircases, and architectural woodwork. The role requires reading blueprints, measuring and cutting materials precisely, joining materials using nails, screws, adhesives, and joinery techniques, and ensuring finished work meets aesthetic and structural standards. Carpenters must understand different wood species, their properties, and appropriate applications. The work spans new construction, renovation, restoration of historic buildings, and custom furniture fabrication. Each project presents unique challenges—fitting trim around irregular walls, matching existing woodwork in older homes, or translating design concepts into functional pieces. Physical demands include lifting materials, extended standing, and working at heights or in awkward positions.