For some reason, many people have a big misconception about skilled trade jobs: they (mistakenly) believe they don’t pay well. In reality, though, it’s common for workers in skilled trades to earn around the U.S. national average salary-about $53,500 a year-and many earn much, much more than that. To prove it, we’ve gathered the data on a dozen of the highest-paying skilled trade jobs, many of which allow you to get started without a four-year degree. If you’re looking to earn a great living doing engaging work that you love, consider one of these trade professions.