There will always be demand for good hard working self motivated plumbers, electricians, HVAC mechanics, and auto mechanics. Even in a downturn the ones with the qualifiers I mentioned will be retained while the deadwood will be laid off.
Everyone used to strap on a tool belt and becomes is a carpenter in a recession, but now you won't displace the Mexicans.
HVAC is a great place to start.
Big demand , learn for real on the bosses dime.
Get your stupid mistakes out on his jobs.
Side work, then on your own.
Refrigeration/heating, with a bunch of plumbing and electrical
thrown in. A bit of construction on some jobs too.
If you take that self employed step, you won't be a one trick pony.
