---
title: "Tools of the Trade: Starter Kits for New Tradespeople"
description: "What tools new electricians, plumbers, HVAC techs and welders actually need on day one, what the employer usually supplies, and what to buy later."
url: https://shapemycareer.com/tools-of-the-trade/
updated: 2026-10-11
site: ShapeMyCareer
---

Tools · Overview

# Tools of the trade

What to bring on day one, and what can wait.

Starter kits

New apprentices often overspend on tools they will not use for a year. These lists cover what you need to show up ready, and what you can buy once you know the work.

In short

Most trades expect new hires to bring basic hand tools and personal safety gear, while the employer supplies power tools, specialty meters and large equipment. Start with quality versions of the tools you will use every day, like a tape measure, utility knife and screwdrivers, plus safety-toe boots, glasses and gloves. Ask your employer or apprenticeship for its required tool list before buying anything else.

**Sources checked October 11, 2026** Pay, training and outlook come from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Pay is the middle (median) figure nationally; your first paycheck in the trade will usually be lower.

## Starter lists by trade

[

### Electrician tools

$63,190middle pay, May 2025

Start with**High school or GED**
 Open ](https://shapemycareer.com/tools-of-the-trade/electrician/)[

### HVAC tools

$61,010middle pay, May 2025

Start with**Certificate**
 Open ](https://shapemycareer.com/tools-of-the-trade/hvac/)[

### Plumber tools

$63,800middle pay, May 2025

Start with**High school or GED**
 Open ](https://shapemycareer.com/tools-of-the-trade/plumber/)[

### Welder tools

$53,750middle pay, May 2025

Start with**High school or GED**
 Open ](https://shapemycareer.com/tools-of-the-trade/welder/)

Buy once, cry once, but only for tools you will use daily. Wait on specialty tools until you know which ones your shop uses.

### Want training that supplies tools?

Some programs include a starter kit. Tell us your trade and ZIP.

[Find training near me](#smc-form)

## Straight answers

### Do apprentices have to buy their own tools?

Usually basic hand tools. Employers supply power tools and specialty equipment.

### How much should I spend on starter tools?

Start small with the employer's required list.

### Are cheap tools okay to start?

For tools you rarely use, yes. For tools you use every day, quality pays off.

## Where this comes from

- [BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook: Electricians](https://www.bls.gov/ooh/construction-and-extraction/electricians.htm)
- [BLS OOH: Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters](https://www.bls.gov/ooh/construction-and-extraction/plumbers-pipefitters-and-steamfitters.htm)
- [BLS OOH: HVACR Mechanics and Installers](https://www.bls.gov/ooh/installation-maintenance-and-repair/heating-air-conditioning-and-refrigeration-mechanics-and-installers.htm)
- [BLS OOH: Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers](https://www.bls.gov/ooh/production/welders-cutters-solderers-and-brazers.htm)

## Keep looking

- [Getting hired](https://shapemycareer.com/guides/getting-hired-in-construction/)
- [Apprenticeships](https://shapemycareer.com/apprenticeships/)
- [Certifications](https://shapemycareer.com/certifications/)
- [Electrician tools](https://shapemycareer.com/tools-of-the-trade/electrician/)
- [HVAC tools](https://shapemycareer.com/tools-of-the-trade/hvac/)
- [Plumber tools](https://shapemycareer.com/tools-of-the-trade/plumber/)
- [Welder tools](https://shapemycareer.com/tools-of-the-trade/welder/)
- [Guides](https://shapemycareer.com/guides/)

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