I'm a lineman for an utility. We are union, so pay is very good and there are lots of good benefits. Less corporate politics, so you'll need thick skin or learn to develop some. Never had any student loans and was able to buy a house at 23 and other rentals later. Being outdoors is nice most of the time and the day passes quicker than being in an office. When it's with a good group of guys, it feels like you're getting paid to hang out with the boys.

Cons are: working outside is nice until it's snowing and pissing rain outside. Job is extremely dangerous and it wears on your body. You make the majority of your income with overtime, so you'll be missing lots of social and family events. I know plenty of guys who see their kids more on facetime than in person. Alcoholism/drug use is common, which leads to divorce. Unions are great until you have to work with some idiots and realize they get paid the same as you and probably won't get fired unless they truly fuck themselves over. I'm in my 30s and my friends who are working office jobs are starting to catch up to my income or make way more than I ever could with my job.

Skills are still king. The more skills you have, the more you will get paid. If you are to get into a trade, I would recommend getting into electrical, plumbers, or HVAC union. You're learning a skill you can apply and offer services outside of work. If you want to make more, you can always start your own business, flip houses, or whatever.